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Demographic Shifts in Lake Meridian: From White Majority to Increasing Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Lake Meridian, a neighborhood in Kent, Washington, exhibits a White Majority demographic composition with a median household income of $91,589 as of 2022. This suburban area has experienced demographic shifts over the past decade, trending towards increased diversity. Lake Meridian is known for its namesake lake, which provides recreational opportunities for residents.
In 2013, Lake Meridian was categorized as having Low Diversity, with the white population comprising 63% of residents. Over the next decade, the neighborhood transitioned to a White Majority status, with the white population decreasing to 57% by 2022. This shift indicates a Transitional Community, as evidenced by the increasing representation of other racial groups.
The Asian population has seen growth, rising from 10% in 2013 to 15% in 2022. The Hispanic and Black populations have also increased, from 11% to 13% and 2% to 9%, respectively. This trend suggests a movement towards Moderate Diversity, with three racial groups now having significant representation (over 10% each).
The demographic shifts in Lake Meridian correlate with an increase in median household income. From 2013 to 2022, the median income rose from $84,688 to $91,589, representing an 8.15% increase. There was a spike in median income to $112,806 in 2021, followed by a decrease in 2022. This fluctuation could be attributed to various factors, including economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent recovery.
The population has grown over this period, from 8,935 in 2013 to 11,009 in 2022, a 23.2% increase. This population growth, combined with rising incomes and increasing diversity, suggests that Lake Meridian has become an attractive destination for a wider range of demographic groups.
The trends observed in Lake Meridian align with broader national patterns of increasing diversity in suburban areas. Many U.S. suburbs have experienced similar transitions from Low Diversity to Moderate Diversity or High Diversity status over the past decade.
The economic growth in Lake Meridian outpaces the national average. While the U.S. median household income increased by about 10% between 2013 and 2022 (adjusted for inflation), Lake Meridian's 8.15% growth in nominal terms likely represents a more substantial real increase.
The increasing Asian population in Lake Meridian reflects a broader trend in the Seattle metropolitan area, which has seen growth in its Asian American communities, particularly in tech-oriented suburbs.
Lake Meridian exemplifies a Transitional Community, moving from Low Diversity towards Moderate Diversity while maintaining its White Majority status. This demographic evolution, coupled with economic growth, positions the neighborhood as an increasingly diverse and prosperous suburb within the greater Seattle area.
