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Demographic Transition in Amazon Neighborhood: From Low Diversity to Emerging Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
DATA SOURCE
United States Census Bureau: American Community Survey Data (ACS)
The Amazon neighborhood in Eugene, Oregon, currently exhibits characteristics of a Low Diversity community, with a White Majority comprising 75% of the population as of 2022. Recent trends suggest it may be transitioning towards increased diversity. The neighborhood has experienced significant economic growth over the past decade, with median income rising from $39,771 in 2013 to $71,345 in 2022, a nearly 80% increase. Amazon is known for its proximity to the University of Oregon, which likely influences its demographic makeup and economic dynamics.
From 2013 to 2022, the Amazon neighborhood has undergone a gradual transformation from a Low Diversity community with a White Majority (82% in 2013) to one showing early signs of becoming a Transitional Community. While still maintaining a White Majority (75% in 2022), there has been an increase in diversity. The Hispanic population has grown from 2% in 2013 to 12% in 2022. The Asian population has increased from 3% to 4%. The proportion of residents identifying as two or more races has risen from 3% to 7%. These changes suggest a trend towards Moderate Diversity, though the neighborhood hasn't reached that threshold yet.
The demographic shifts correlate with economic changes. Median income has increased from $39,771 in 2013 to $71,345 in 2022, an 80% rise. This income growth coincided with the increasing diversity, particularly the growth in Hispanic and multi-racial populations. Despite income growth, the population has remained relatively stable, fluctuating between approximately 1,300 and 1,800 residents over the decade. The rising incomes and increasing diversity might indicate gentrification or changing economic opportunities in the area, possibly influenced by its proximity to the university.
These trends align with broader national patterns. Many college towns across the U.S. have experienced increasing diversity and rising property values over the past decade. The growth in the Hispanic population reflects national demographic trends, where the Hispanic population has been one of the fastest-growing segments in many urban areas. The significant income increase outpaces national averages, suggesting localized factors are at play.
The Amazon neighborhood is showing signs of transitioning from a Low Diversity, White Majority area to a more diverse community with rapidly increasing income levels. This evolution likely reflects both local factors, such as its proximity to the University of Oregon, and broader national trends in urban demographics and economics. As this transition continues, it may bring both opportunities and challenges for community cohesion and local economic development.
