Loading Content...
Demographic Transition in Broad River: From Low to Moderate Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The Broad River neighborhood in Norwalk, Connecticut, exhibits characteristics of a Transitional Community with Moderate Diversity as of 2022. The area has a population of 4,061 and a median income of $110,328. Broad River has undergone a rapid demographic shift over the past decade, transitioning from a predominantly White community to one with a more balanced racial composition.
In 2013, Broad River had Low Diversity, with a White Majority (74% white). By 2022, the community no longer had a Racial Majority, showing characteristics of Moderate Diversity with a trend towards becoming a Majority-Minority area. The Hispanic population increased from 13% in 2013 to 34% in 2022. The White population decreased from 74% to 45%. The Black population grew from 9% to 17%. This shift was gradual but consistent, suggesting a sustained trend.
The median income in Broad River has remained relatively stable. In 2013, the median income was $119,739, and in 2022 it was $110,328. This slight decrease (about 8%) is not as dramatic as one might expect given the scale of demographic change. The population has remained relatively stable, fluctuating between about 4,000 and 4,400 residents throughout the decade.
The trends observed in Broad River align with broader patterns seen in many suburban areas across the United States, particularly in the Northeast. Many formerly homogeneous, predominantly white suburbs have been experiencing increased diversity over the past few decades. This change is often attributed to factors such as immigration, increased social mobility among minority groups, and changing housing preferences.
The stability of the median income in Broad River, despite demographic changes, is somewhat unusual. In many areas experiencing similar demographic shifts, income levels tend to fluctuate more significantly. This stability could indicate that Broad River remains an attractive area for middle to upper-middle-class families across racial groups.
Broad River presents a case of demographic transition without dramatic economic upheaval. As it continues to evolve towards greater diversity, it will be interesting to observe how community dynamics, local institutions, and economic factors adapt to and shape these changes in the coming years.
