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Demographic Shifts in Scranton, Pennsylvania: Analysis of Racial Composition and Economic Trends
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Scranton, Pennsylvania, a city with 75,838 residents as of 2022, has experienced demographic and economic changes over the past decade. Scranton is classified as a "White Majority" city with "Moderate Diversity." The white population comprises 66% of the total, while Hispanic residents make up 18%.
The shift from 2021 to 2022 suggests a transitional period for Scranton. The city appears to be moving from "Low Diversity" towards "Moderate Diversity." The Hispanic population increased from 17% to 18%, while the white population decreased from 69% to 66%. This trend indicates that Scranton may become a "Transitional Community" if these changes continue.
Scranton's median income has fluctuated over the past decade. From 2013 to 2022, the median income increased from $38,810 to $48,279, a 24.4% increase. This growth was not linear. The city experienced an increase in median income from $41,169 in 2019 to $54,279 in 2021, followed by a decrease to $48,279 in 2022. These economic shifts coincide with the observed demographic changes, suggesting a possible correlation between increasing diversity and economic volatility.
The demographic shifts in Scranton align with broader national trends of increasing diversity in urban areas. The economic fluctuations, particularly the rise and fall in median income from 2019 to 2022, may reflect the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and its aftermath, which affected many cities across the United States.
Scranton is likely to continue its transition towards greater diversity. If current patterns persist, the city may evolve from a "White Majority" status to a "Majority-Minority" community within the next decade. The Hispanic population shows potential for continued growth.
Economically, the city may experience further fluctuations as it adapts to changing demographics. If diversity continues to increase and the city successfully integrates its growing minority populations, it could lead to long-term economic growth and stability.
Scranton appears to be at a pivotal point in its demographic and economic evolution. The city is showing signs of transitioning from a predominantly white, low-diversity community to a more diverse, economically dynamic urban center. This transition presents challenges and opportunities for local policymakers and community leaders to ensure inclusive growth and social cohesion as the city's demographic landscape evolves.
