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Demographic Transition in Helena's North Neighborhood: A Study of Racial Composition
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The North neighborhood of Helena, Montana, exhibits characteristics of Low Diversity, with a white population of 87% in 2022. This predominantly white community has experienced subtle shifts in its demographic makeup over the past decade, indicating a slow but steady transition towards increased diversity. The neighborhood's median income of $51,404 in 2022 reflects a modest economic standing, slightly above the state's median income. Helena, as the state capital, serves as a hub for government operations and historical tourism, which likely influences the neighborhood's demographic and economic trends.
Over the past decade, the North neighborhood of Helena has maintained its status as a Low Diversity area, with the white population consistently above 75%. The white population decreased from 91% in 2013 to 87% in 2022. The Hispanic population grew from 2% in 2013 to 4% in 2022. The percentage of residents identifying as two or more races increased from 2% in 2013 to 6% in 2022. These changes suggest a trend towards a Transitional Community, particularly with the growth in Hispanic and multiracial populations.
The median income in the North neighborhood has shown fluctuations over the years. It rose from $44,836 in 2013 to a peak of $54,029 in 2019. There was a drop to $48,634 in 2021, possibly due to the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. A recovery is evident with the 2022 median income of $51,404, though still below the 2019 peak. These economic trends correlate with the demographic shifts. The period of income growth (2013-2019) coincides with the gradual increase in diversity. The recent income recovery post-2021 aligns with continued growth in Hispanic and multiracial populations.
Montana is known for its predominantly white population, but Helena's North neighborhood appears to be following a national trend of increasing diversity, albeit at a slower pace. The growth in Hispanic and multiracial populations mirrors broader national demographic shifts, though at a more modest scale. The economic fluctuations observed in the neighborhood are consistent with national trends, particularly the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent recovery. The relatively stable median income suggests that the neighborhood may have been somewhat insulated from more severe economic shocks experienced in other parts of the country.
The North neighborhood of Helena remains categorized as Low Diversity, but it shows signs of gradual transition. The slow but steady increase in Hispanic and multiracial populations, coupled with economic resilience, suggests a community in the early stages of demographic evolution. These changes may have long-term implications for the neighborhood's cultural landscape and economic dynamics, potentially leading to a more diverse and economically varied community in the future.
