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Demographic Transition in Ajo, Arizona: From Diversity to White Majority (2013-2022)
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Ajo in Arizona exhibited a distinct demographic profile in 2022, with 58% of the population identifying as white, categorizing it as a "White Majority" community. The median income in Ajo was $41,290 in 2022, showing an increase over the past decade.
Ajo has experienced significant demographic changes from 2013 to 2022. In 2013, the community was classified as "Majority-Minority," with Hispanic residents comprising 45% and white residents 43% of the population. From 2014 to 2019, Ajo maintained a "Moderate Diversity" status, with Hispanic and white populations each consistently representing over 20% of the total, and Native American residents forming a significant minority.
The most significant shift occurred between 2021 and 2022, when the community transitioned from "Moderate Diversity" to "White Majority." This change was characterized by an increase in the white population from 48% to 58%, while the Hispanic population decreased from 46% to 34%.
The demographic shifts in Ajo correlate with changes in median income and population figures. The median income increased from $33,176 in 2013 to $41,290 in 2022, a 24.5% increase over nine years. This economic improvement coincides with the shift towards a white majority.
The population of Ajo has fluctuated, peaking at 3,933 in 2015 and declining to 2,930 in 2022. This population decrease, coupled with the increase in median income, suggests a possible outmigration of lower-income residents or an influx of higher-income individuals, potentially contributing to the demographic shift.
The trend of increasing median income in Ajo aligns with broader national economic recovery patterns observed since the 2008 recession. The demographic shift towards a white majority, however, contrasts with national trends that generally show increasing diversity in many urban and suburban areas.
Based on observed trends, Ajo appears to be on a trajectory of continued economic growth with a consolidating white majority. However, given the historical diversity of the area and the significant Hispanic population, it is possible that Ajo could transition back to a "Moderate Diversity" category in the future, especially if economic opportunities continue to improve and attract a more diverse population.
The community might also be categorized as a "Transitional Community" in the coming years if a reversal of the recent demographic shift is observed, with increasing representation from Hispanic and other minority groups. This transition could be driven by broader regional demographic changes or shifts in local economic opportunities.
Ajo's demographic and economic landscape has shown significant dynamism over the past decade. While currently classified as a "White Majority" community, its history of diversity and changing economic profile suggest that further transitions are possible, making it a case study in small-town demographic evolution.
