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Demographic Shifts in Forestland: From White Majority to Increasing Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Forestland, a neighborhood in Oakland, California, currently exhibits a White Majority demographic composition with a median household income of $193,949 as of 2022. This area is characterized by Low Diversity, with white residents comprising 60% of the population. Forestland is known for its wooded areas and scenic views, which contribute to its desirability and high property values.
Over the past decade, Forestland has undergone changes in its racial composition. In 2013, the neighborhood was categorized as Low Diversity with a White Majority, as white residents made up 74% of the population. By 2022, while still maintaining a White Majority, the neighborhood has moved closer to the threshold of Moderate Diversity.
The most significant shifts include a decrease in the white population from 74% to 60%, an increase in the Asian population from 14% to 18%, and a rise in residents identifying as two or more races, from 6% to 16%. These changes suggest a trend towards increasing diversity, potentially categorizing Forestland as a Transitional Community.
Alongside these demographic changes, Forestland has experienced economic growth. The median household income has risen from $169,308 in 2013 to $193,949 in 2022, an increase of about 14.6%. This growth in income has coincided with the increasing diversity of the neighborhood. The population of Forestland has grown from 3,987 in 2013 to 5,105 in 2022, representing a 28% increase.
The trends observed in Forestland align with patterns seen in many affluent suburban areas across the United States. As cities become more diverse, traditionally homogeneous wealthy suburbs are often experiencing shifts towards greater racial and ethnic diversity. The rapid increase in residents identifying as two or more races is especially significant and mirrors national trends.
Forestland's economic growth outpaces national averages. While the U.S. median household income grew by about 10% between 2013 and 2022, Forestland's 14.6% growth demonstrates its strong economic position within the broader Oakland and Bay Area economy.
Forestland represents a microcosm of broader demographic and economic shifts occurring in affluent American suburbs. While still maintaining its status as a predominantly white, high-income area, the neighborhood is gradually transitioning towards greater diversity, potentially setting the stage for more significant changes in the coming years.
