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Demographic Shifts in Somerset, Glendale: From Moderate Diversity to White Majority
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Somerset, a neighborhood in Glendale, California, has transitioned from a moderately diverse community to one with a white majority over the past decade. As of 2022, the white population comprises 59% of residents, with Asian (16%) and Hispanic (22%) populations representing significant minorities. This demographic shift has been accompanied by economic changes, including a substantial increase in median income.
In 2013, Somerset was categorized as a "Moderate Diversity" area, with a white population of 53% and significant Asian (19%) and Hispanic (23%) representation. The most notable shift occurred between 2016 and 2017, when the white population increased from 56% to 61%, solidifying Somerset's transition to a "White Majority" community. This change coincided with a decrease in the Hispanic population from 23% to 19%. The Asian population has remained relatively stable, fluctuating between 16% and 24% over the decade.
The demographic shifts in Somerset correlate with changes in median income. In 2013, the median income was $40,137, which increased to $66,306 by 2022 - a 65% increase over the decade. The sharpest increase in median income occurred between 2017 and 2019, jumping from $43,138 to $65,190. This period aligns with the solidification of the white majority in the neighborhood, suggesting a possible relationship between the increasing proportion of white residents and rising income levels.
The population has shown a general declining trend, from 7,498 in 2010 to 6,099 in 2022. This decline, coupled with rising incomes, might indicate a shift towards smaller, more affluent households.
The trends observed in Somerset reflect broader patterns seen in many urban and suburban areas across the United States. The increasing white majority and rising median income could be indicative of gentrification processes occurring in desirable suburban locations near major urban centers. The significant increase in median income outpaces national averages, which typically see more modest growth. This rapid income growth, combined with demographic shifts, suggests that Somerset may be experiencing a more pronounced version of trends seen in similar neighborhoods nationwide.
The declining population despite rising incomes is a contrast to many growing suburban areas. This could indicate that Somerset is becoming a more exclusive neighborhood, potentially pricing out some former residents or attracting smaller, wealthier households.
Somerset has evolved from a moderately diverse community to one with a clearer white majority over the past decade. This shift has been accompanied by significant economic growth, as evidenced by the substantial increase in median income. These changes suggest a transforming neighborhood character, potentially moving towards a more affluent, less diverse community. The dynamics observed in Somerset provide a microcosm of broader demographic and economic shifts occurring in many suburban areas across the United States.
