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Demographic Stability and Economic Fluctuations in Eastside: A Predominantly White Neighborhood
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The Eastside neighborhood of Bloomington, Indiana, exhibits demographic stability with minor economic variations. As of 2022, it is classified as a "Low Diversity" area, with a White Majority comprising 76% of the population. The neighborhood's median income in 2022 was $38,420, indicating a moderate economic status, though it has experienced significant fluctuations over the past decade. Eastside's proximity to Indiana University likely influences its demographic and economic characteristics.
Throughout the period from 2013 to 2022, Eastside has maintained its "Low Diversity" status with a White Majority. The White population has decreased slightly from 82% in 2013 to 76% in 2022, suggesting a gradual trend towards increased diversity. The Asian population has shown the most significant increase, rising from 11% in 2013 to 15% in 2022, with peaks of 18-19% in some years. Other racial groups have maintained relatively stable, low percentages throughout the decade.
The median income in Eastside has shown considerable volatility over the decade. There was a notable increase from $30,647 in 2013 to a peak of $42,868 in 2017. Following this peak, there was a sharp decline to $21,473 in 2021, before rebounding to $38,420 in 2022. These economic fluctuations do not appear to correlate strongly with the gradual demographic shifts. The sharp decline in income from 2020 to 2021 might be attributed to the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, which significantly affected many university towns.
Population figures have remained relatively stable, fluctuating between about 2,900 and 3,300 residents throughout the decade. This stability suggests that while there have been economic changes, they have not led to significant population displacement or influx.
The demographic trends in Eastside align with broader national patterns of slowly increasing diversity in many communities, particularly in university towns. The gradual increase in the Asian population is consistent with trends seen in many college towns across the United States, often driven by international student enrollment and faculty recruitment.
The economic volatility, particularly the sharp decline in 2020-2021, likely reflects the unique challenges faced by university-adjacent neighborhoods during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many such areas experienced economic downturns as students left campuses and local businesses suffered.
Eastside remains categorized as a Low Diversity area with a White Majority. Subtle demographic shifts and significant economic fluctuations over the past decade indicate a neighborhood in gradual transition. The influence of Indiana University likely plays a significant role in these trends, shaping both the demographic composition and economic resilience of the area.
