Demographic Shifts in Gilbert Neighborhood: From Moderate Diversity to White Majority
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
DATA SOURCE
The Gilbert neighborhood in Muncie, Indiana, has undergone significant demographic changes from 2013 to 2022. As of 2022, Gilbert is categorized as a "White Majority" community with a median income of $22,276. The neighborhood has experienced a substantial population decline, decreasing from 209 residents in 2010 to 116 in 2022.
From 2013 to 2019, Gilbert exhibited characteristics of a "Moderate Diversity" community, with significant representation from both White and Black populations. However, by 2022, the neighborhood transitioned to a "White Majority" status. The demographic composition shifted from 52% White and 45% Black in 2019 to 77% White and 12% Black in 2022.
The median income in Gilbert has shown an upward trend, increasing from $15,385 in 2013 to $22,276 in 2022. This income growth coincided with the shift towards a White Majority, suggesting a possible correlation between demographic changes and economic improvements.
The demographic shifts observed in Gilbert are more pronounced than typical national trends. While many urban areas in the United States have seen increasing diversity over the past decade, Gilbert has become less diverse. This counter-trend movement might indicate unique local factors affecting this small neighborhood.
The median income growth in Gilbert, while positive, still leaves the neighborhood below the national median household income, which was approximately $70,784 in 2021. This suggests that despite improvements, Gilbert remains an economically challenged area.
The dramatic population decline in Gilbert differs from broader trends in many urban areas, which have often seen population growth. This decline, coupled with demographic shifts, points to significant local factors affecting the neighborhood's composition and attractiveness to residents.
Gilbert presents a case of a small urban neighborhood undergoing rapid demographic and economic changes. Its transition from a moderately diverse community to a White Majority area, accompanied by population decline and modest income growth, suggests a complex interplay of socio-economic factors that warrant further investigation to fully understand the drivers and implications of these changes.