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Demographic Shifts in Zip Code 85539: From White Majority to Hispanic Plurality
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The zip code 85539 in Top-of-the-World, Arizona, has undergone significant demographic changes from 2013 to 2022. As of 2022, it is classified as a "Majority-Minority" community with "Moderate Diversity." The Hispanic population comprises 47% of the community, while the White population accounts for 43%. This area has experienced notable demographic shifts, changes in median income, and a decrease in population size over the past decade.
The community has transitioned from a "White Majority" in 2013 to a "Hispanic Plurality" by 2017, and finally to a "Majority-Minority" area by 2020. The Hispanic population has shown the most significant growth, increasing from 45% in 2013 to a peak of 59% in 2020, before slightly declining to 47% in 2022. Conversely, the White population has steadily decreased from 53% in 2013 to 34% in 2020, before slightly increasing to 43% in 2022.
The area has experienced a trend towards greater diversity. While initially dominated by White and Hispanic populations, there has been a gradual increase in representation from other racial groups, particularly Native American and those identifying as two or more races.
Economic trends in the zip code 85539 have shown notable fluctuations. The median income peaked at $41,804 in 2013, dropped to a low of $33,564 in 2016, and has since shown a general upward trend, reaching $42,262 in 2022. The population has steadily decreased from 4,846 in 2013 to 3,066 in 2022, a decline of about 37%. The period of lowest median income (2015-2018) coincides with the transition from a White majority to a Hispanic plurality, suggesting potential economic challenges during this demographic shift.
The demographic shifts in this zip code align with broader national trends of increasing diversity and growing Hispanic populations in many parts of the United States, particularly in the Southwest. The population decline is significant and could indicate broader economic or social changes in the area, potentially related to job opportunities or changing community dynamics. The income fluctuations, while significant, have ultimately resulted in a modest increase over the decade, which may reflect resilience in the face of demographic changes or adaptation to new economic realities.
In conclusion, zip code 85539 has transformed from a predominantly White community to a diverse, Majority-Minority area over the past decade. This transition has been accompanied by economic challenges, as evidenced by income fluctuations and population decline. However, the recent upward trend in median income suggests a potential stabilization or improvement in economic conditions. These changes reflect broader national trends of increasing diversity and highlight the complex interplay between demographic shifts and economic factors in shaping local communities.
