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Demographic Transition in Lakeside Acres: From Low Diversity to Increasing Racial Composition
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Lakeside Acres, a neighborhood in Flagstaff, Arizona, exhibits a demographic profile categorized as "Low Diversity" based on established terminology. As of 2022, the white population comprises 75% of the community. The neighborhood has experienced significant economic changes over the past decade, with fluctuations in median income. Lakeside Acres is known for its proximity to lake views, which may influence its property values and demographic composition.
Over the past decade, Lakeside Acres has undergone a transition in its racial composition. From 2013 to 2017, the neighborhood was classified as "Low Diversity," with the white population consistently above 85%. From 2018 onwards, there has been a gradual shift towards increased diversity. The period from 2013-2017 showed low diversity with a white population exceeding 85%. From 2018-2020, the neighborhood remained in the low diversity category but with a declining trend, as the white population ranged from 85-92%. In 2021-2022, Lakeside Acres became a transitional community, with the white population decreasing to 75-77%.
The transition is primarily driven by an increase in the Hispanic population, which grew from 1% in 2017 to 19% in 2022. Additionally, a small but growing multiracial population emerged, reaching 4% in 2022, indicating a trend towards a more diverse community composition.
The economic landscape of Lakeside Acres has experienced significant volatility over the past decade. From 2013-2019, the neighborhood had a high median income period ranging from $115,000 to $138,000. However, from 2020-2022, there was a sharp decline in median income, ranging from $81,000 to $89,000. The period of increased racial diversity coincides with a substantial decrease in median income.
This correlation suggests several possibilities. Economic factors may have led to changes in housing affordability, attracting a more diverse population. The 2020 pandemic may have disproportionately affected higher-income residents, leading to demographic shifts. The influx of a more diverse population might be part of a broader gentrification trend, with early-stage demographic changes preceding potential future economic growth.
The demographic shifts in Lakeside Acres align with broader national trends of increasing diversity in suburban areas. The growth of the Hispanic population mirrors trends seen in many Western states, including Arizona. The transition from a highly homogeneous community to one showing signs of increased diversity, coupled with significant economic changes, suggests that Lakeside Acres is at a pivotal point in its development.
These shifts may lead to changes in local businesses, community services, and cultural events to cater to a more diverse population. However, the economic challenges evidenced by the declining median income could pose difficulties for both long-term residents and newcomers, potentially affecting community cohesion and local development initiatives. Monitoring these demographic and economic trends will be crucial for understanding the neighborhood's future trajectory and ensuring equitable development for all residents.
