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Demographic Shifts in Rankin, Pennsylvania: A Study of Racial Composition from 2013 to 2022
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Rankin, Pennsylvania, is classified as a "Black Majority" community, with 65% of the population identifying as Black in 2022. The city has undergone significant demographic and economic changes over the past decade, transitioning from a predominantly Black community to one showing signs of increasing diversity.
Over the past decade, Rankin has experienced a notable transition in its racial composition. In 2013, the community was firmly in the "Black Majority" category with 75% of the population identifying as Black. By 2022, while still maintaining a Black majority, the percentage decreased to 65%. This shift indicates a trend towards increased diversity, with the white population growing from 22% to 25% and the emergence of a Hispanic population (5%) and an increase in multiracial residents (5%).
The community has been moving away from the "Low Diversity" category it occupied in the early 2010s towards a more "Moderate Diversity" classification. This transition is characterized by the increasing representation of other racial groups, particularly white and Hispanic populations.
Alongside these demographic changes, Rankin has experienced significant economic fluctuations. The median income has increased from $16,808 in 2013 to $34,210 in 2022. This increase in median income correlates with the diversification of the community's racial makeup. Despite this increase, the median income in Rankin remains relatively low compared to national averages, indicating ongoing economic challenges.
The trend of increasing diversity and rising median incomes observed in Rankin aligns with broader national trends of suburban diversification and economic recovery post-2008 recession. However, the scale of income growth in Rankin appears to be more dramatic than typical national averages, suggesting local factors at play.
Based on the observed trends, Rankin is likely to continue its trajectory towards increased diversity. If current trends persist, the community may transition from a "Black Majority" to a "Black Plurality" or "Majority-Minority" category within the next decade. The white and Hispanic populations are likely to continue growing, and the multiracial category may see further increases.
Economically, if the trend of rising median incomes continues, further gentrification and demographic shifts may occur. However, the rate of increase may slow down as the community approaches regional economic norms.
These changes may affect community dynamics, local services, and housing affordability. The transition could bring opportunities and challenges that local policymakers will need to address to ensure equitable development.
