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Demographic Transition in Benton Neighborhood: From White Majority to Increasing Racial Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The Benton neighborhood in Independence, Missouri, exhibits a demographic profile characterized as a "Transitional Community" with increasing diversity. As of 2022, the neighborhood maintains a "White Majority" status with 59% of the population identifying as white, a significant decrease over the past decade. The median income of $36,925 in 2022 indicates a working-class community that has experienced modest economic growth in recent years. Benton is named after Thomas Hart Benton, one of Missouri's first senators, reflecting the area's historical significance.
Over the past decade, Benton has transitioned from a community with "Low Diversity" to one approaching "Moderate Diversity." In 2013, the neighborhood had "Low Diversity" with a white population of 80%, which decreased to 59% by 2022. The Black population increased significantly, rising from 3% in 2013 to 25% in 2022. The Hispanic population also grew, doubling from 4% to 9% between 2013 and 2022. These changes suggest Benton is moving towards a potential "Majority-Minority" status if current trends continue.
The demographic shifts in Benton correlate with fluctuations in median income. From 2013 to 2022, the median income increased from $29,751 to $36,925, representing a 24% growth. This growth was not linear, with the median income dropping to $25,854 in 2018 before rebounding. The periods of significant racial diversification coincide with both economic challenges and subsequent growth. The increase in the Black population between 2019 and 2020 (from 8% to 19%) occurred alongside a rise in median income from $34,021 to $38,801.
The demographic changes in Benton reflect broader national trends of increasing diversity in suburban areas. Many American suburbs have experienced transitions from predominantly white communities to more diverse neighborhoods over the past decade. Benton's rapid increase in its Black population is notable and may indicate changing settlement patterns or targeted community development efforts.
The economic fluctuations in Benton mirror national trends of recovery following the 2008 financial crisis, with a dip around 2018 and subsequent growth. Benton's median income remains below the national median, which was approximately $70,784 in 2021, indicating that while the community is experiencing growth, it still faces economic challenges compared to national averages.
Benton exemplifies a community in transition, both demographically and economically. The neighborhood is moving from a historically low-diversity area to one that is increasingly multiracial, with economic indicators suggesting a complex interplay between demographic changes and economic development. These shifts present opportunities and challenges for community cohesion and local policy-making as Benton continues to evolve.
