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Demographic Transition in Allentown's 8th Ward: Hispanic Majority and Racial Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The 8th Ward of Allentown, Pennsylvania, has transitioned to a Majority-Minority community with a Hispanic Majority. As of 2022, the neighborhood has a population of 11,593 and a median income of $50,270. This area has experienced significant demographic changes over the past decade.
In 2013, the 8th Ward was categorized as a Majority-Minority community with a Hispanic Plurality (55%). By 2020, the Hispanic population reached 63% before slightly declining to 57% in 2022. The White population decreased from 29% in 2013 to 26% in 2022, while the Black population increased from 10% to 13%. The Asian population remained stable at 2-3%.
The median income in the 8th Ward increased from $38,316 in 2013 to $50,270 in 2022, representing a 31% increase. The population grew from 10,499 in 2013 to 11,593 in 2022, an increase of about 10%.
The demographic changes in the 8th Ward of Allentown reflect broader national trends of increasing diversity in urban areas, particularly the growth of Hispanic populations in U.S. cities. The economic improvement in this neighborhood, with a 31% increase in median income over a decade, is notable.
The transition to a Hispanic Majority community, while maintaining elements of diversity with significant White and growing Black populations, is indicative of changing urban demographics across the United States. This trend is often seen in areas experiencing revitalization or economic development.
The 8th Ward's experience demonstrates how demographic shifts can coincide with economic improvements. The community's ability to maintain its diversity while experiencing economic growth could serve as a case study for urban planners and policymakers examining similar demographic transitions in other cities.
