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Demographic Shifts in Waterville: From White Majority to Moderate Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Waterville, a neighborhood in Waterbury, Connecticut, exhibits a Moderate Diversity profile with a transitioning racial composition. As of 2022, the area has a population of 4,104 and a median income of $61,257. Waterville is known for its historic industrial heritage, particularly in brass manufacturing, which has influenced its demographic and economic landscape.
Over the past decade, Waterville has undergone a transformation in its racial composition. In 2013, the neighborhood had a White Majority, with 60% of the population identifying as white. By 2022, this had shifted to a Majority-Minority status, with the white population decreasing to 35% and no single racial group holding a majority. The Hispanic population has shown the most significant growth, increasing from 22% in 2013 to 36% in 2022. The Black population has also increased, from 15% in 2013 to 26% in 2022.
The median income in Waterville has fluctuated over the years but has generally shown an upward trend. In 2013, the median income was $63,929, and by 2022 it had slightly decreased to $61,257. There was a peak in 2021 at $69,018. The population has also fluctuated, starting at 3,807 in 2013, dipping to 3,219 in 2019, and then rebounding to 4,104 in 2022. This population growth, coupled with the increasing diversity, suggests that Waterville may be attracting new residents from various backgrounds.
The economic trends appear to be resilient in the face of demographic changes. Despite the shift from a White Majority to a Majority-Minority community, the median income has remained relatively stable, even showing some growth. This could indicate that the neighborhood is successfully integrating new residents without significant economic disruption.
The demographic shifts observed in Waterville align with broader national trends of increasing diversity in suburban and urban areas. Many former industrial towns across the United States have experienced similar transitions as they adapt to changing economic conditions and demographic patterns. The stability of median income in Waterville, despite significant demographic changes, is noteworthy. Waterville's ability to maintain and even slightly increase its median income suggests a degree of economic resilience and successful integration of new community members.
The growth of the Hispanic population in Waterville (from 22% to 36% over a decade) outpaces the national average growth rate for this demographic group, indicating that Waterville may be an particularly attractive destination for Hispanic residents within the region.
Waterville exemplifies a Transitional Community, evolving from a White Majority area to a Majority-Minority neighborhood with Moderate Diversity. This transition has been accompanied by relative economic stability, suggesting a dynamic and adaptable community structure. The neighborhood's journey reflects broader national trends of increasing diversity while highlighting its unique path of maintaining economic resilience through significant demographic changes.
