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Demographic Shifts in Woods Park, Lincoln: From Low to Moderate Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
DATA SOURCE
United States Census Bureau: American Community Survey Data (ACS)
Woods Park, located in Lincoln, Nebraska, is a neighborhood with a population of 3,721 as of 2022. The median income in the area is $44,303. The community is characterized as a White Majority with moderate diversity, influenced by its proximity to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
Over the past decade, Woods Park has undergone demographic changes. In 2013, the white population comprised 81% of residents, categorizing the neighborhood as Low Diversity. By 2022, this percentage decreased to 72%, shifting the area towards Moderate Diversity. The most significant change has been the increase in the Black population, rising from 3% in 2013 to 11% in 2022. Increases in Asian and Hispanic populations have also contributed to the area's growing diversity.
The neighborhood has displayed characteristics of a Transitional Community, particularly evident in the consistent growth of the Black population over the last five years. The median income in Woods Park has fluctuated, showing a general upward trend from 2013 to 2020, peaking at $52,676. However, there was a decrease to $44,303 in 2022. This recent decline coincides with the continued diversification of the neighborhood.
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The population of Woods Park has remained relatively stable, ranging from 3,500 to 3,800 residents throughout the decade. This stability, combined with changing racial demographics, suggests a gradual turnover in residents rather than significant population changes.
The trends observed in Woods Park align with broader national patterns of increasing diversity in urban areas, particularly those near universities. The growth in the Black population is notable and may reflect broader trends of increased diversity in higher education and associated neighborhoods.
The recent decline in median income, despite increasing diversity, contrasts with national trends where increased diversity often correlates with economic growth. This could be attributed to local factors such as changes in the student population or shifts in the local job market.
Woods Park is transitioning from a Low Diversity to a Moderate Diversity community, with a persistent White Majority but growing representation from other racial groups, particularly the Black community. The economic situation is mixed, with recent income declines potentially indicating challenges in integrating this growing diversity into the local economic structure. As this transition continues, it will be important to monitor how these demographic shifts impact community dynamics and economic opportunities in the neighborhood.
