Loading Content...
Demographic Transition in Belleville, Illinois: From White Majority to Increasing Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Belleville, Illinois, currently exhibits a demographic profile categorized as a "White Majority" community, with 60% of the population identifying as white in 2022. This categorization is on the verge of change, as the white population has been steadily decreasing over the past decade. The city's median income of $58,704 in 2022 reflects a moderate economic standing, though it has fluctuated over recent years.
Over the past decade, Belleville has been transitioning from a "Low Diversity" community towards a more diverse demographic makeup. In 2013, the city was firmly in the "White Majority" category with 71% of the population identifying as white. By 2022, this percentage had dropped to 60%, just barely maintaining the "White Majority" status.
The most significant change has been the increase in the Black population, rising from 22% in 2013 to 28% in 2022. Additionally, there has been growth in the Hispanic population (from 1% to 4%) and those identifying as two or more races (from 2% to 5%). These shifts indicate that Belleville is becoming a "Transitional Community," moving towards either a "Moderate Diversity" or potentially a "Majority-Minority" status in the near future.
The median income in Belleville has shown an overall upward trend, increasing from $53,913 in 2013 to $58,704 in 2022, with some fluctuations in between. Notably, there was a significant jump to $61,771 in 2021 before a slight decline in 2022. This general increase in median income has occurred alongside the diversification of the population, suggesting that the demographic shifts have not negatively impacted the overall economic health of the community.
The population of Belleville has experienced a slight decline from 64,664 in 2013 to 62,307 in 2022. This minor population decrease, coupled with increasing diversity and rising median income, could indicate a complex interplay of factors such as changing housing markets, job opportunities, or broader regional demographic shifts.
The trends observed in Belleville align with broader national patterns of increasing diversity in many American cities. The growth in the Black, Hispanic, and multiracial populations reflects similar trends seen across the United States, particularly in suburban areas near larger metropolitan centers.
Based on the observed trends, it is likely that Belleville will continue its trajectory towards greater diversity. If current trends persist, within the next 5-10 years, the city could transition from a "White Majority" to either a "Moderate Diversity" or even a "Majority-Minority" community. The consistent growth of the Black population, coupled with increases in Hispanic and multiracial residents, suggests this shift is probable.
Economically, if the correlation between increasing diversity and rising median income continues, Belleville might see further economic growth. However, the slight population decline could be a point of concern if it persists, potentially affecting the local economy and housing market.
Belleville appears to be at a demographic crossroads, transitioning from a predominantly white community to a more diverse urban area. This evolution presents both opportunities and challenges for community cohesion, economic development, and local governance. Monitoring these trends and proactively addressing the needs of a changing population will be crucial for Belleville's future prosperity and social harmony.
