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Demographic Transition in Ball Square: From White Majority to Emerging Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Ball Square, a neighborhood in Somerville, Massachusetts, exhibits characteristics of a White Majority community with increasing diversity. As of 2022, the white population comprises 64% of residents, with an Asian presence at 16% and a Hispanic population at 10%. The neighborhood has experienced economic growth, with a median income of $125,114 in 2022. Ball Square is known for its local businesses and proximity to Tufts University, contributing to its evolving demographic landscape.
Over the past decade, Ball Square has transitioned from a Low Diversity community to one approaching Moderate Diversity. In 2013, the neighborhood was in the White Majority category with 79% white residents. By 2022, this percentage decreased to 64%, while other racial groups, particularly Asian and Hispanic populations, increased. The Asian population increased from 9% to 16%, and the Hispanic population from 4% to 10%.
This shift suggests Ball Square is becoming a Transitional Community, moving towards greater diversity. The most significant changes occurred between 2019 and 2022, with the white population decreasing from 74% to 64%, indicating an accelerating trend towards diversification.
Alongside demographic changes, Ball Square has experienced economic growth. The median income rose from $104,184 in 2013 to $125,114 in 2022, an increase of about 20%. There was a substantial increase in median income to $146,247 in 2021, followed by a decrease in 2022, possibly reflecting economic volatility due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The increasing diversity correlates with rising median incomes, suggesting that the neighborhood is attracting affluent professionals from various racial backgrounds. This trend could be attributed to the area's proximity to Boston and Cambridge, major hubs for technology, education, and healthcare industries that often attract a diverse, highly-educated workforce.
The demographic shifts in Ball Square align with broader trends in the Boston metropolitan area, which has been experiencing increased diversity and gentrification in many neighborhoods. The rise in Asian and Hispanic populations is consistent with national trends, particularly in urban areas with strong job markets in tech and education sectors.
The economic growth in Ball Square outpaces national averages, reflecting the robust economy of the Greater Boston area. The rapid increase in median income and changing demographics may raise concerns about gentrification and affordability for long-term residents.
The population has remained relatively stable over the decade, fluctuating between about 8,400 and 9,000 residents. This stability, combined with rising incomes and increasing diversity, suggests that Ball Square is experiencing more of a demographic turnover rather than significant population growth or decline.
Ball Square is evolving from a predominantly white, upper-middle-class neighborhood to a more diverse, affluent community. This transition reflects broader urban trends of increasing diversity in desirable, well-located neighborhoods near major employment centers. As the community continues to change, it will be important to monitor issues of affordability and community cohesion to ensure that Ball Square remains an inclusive neighborhood for all residents.
