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Demographic Transition in Mesa Vista II: From Hispanic Plurality to Moderate Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Mesa Vista II, a neighborhood in Mesa, Arizona, demonstrates a demographic profile categorized as "Moderate Diversity" as of 2022. The neighborhood exhibits a balanced distribution of racial groups, with no single group exceeding 50% of the population. The area's current median income of $54,575 reflects a middle-income suburban community. Mesa Vista II has undergone significant demographic changes over the past decade, transitioning from a Hispanic plurality to a more diverse community, mirroring broader shifts seen in many Southwestern urban areas.
In 2013, Mesa Vista II was categorized as a "Hispanic Plurality" community, with the Hispanic population comprising 45% of residents. By 2022, it evolved into a "Moderate Diversity" area, with White (41%), Hispanic (37%), and Two or More Races (9%) forming the largest groups. This shift represents a transition from a community dominated by one ethnic group to one with a more balanced racial composition.
The Hispanic population percentage decreased from 45% in 2013 to 37% in 2022, while the White population remained relatively stable, fluctuating between 32% and 53% over the years. There was a notable increase in residents identifying as Two or More Races, rising from 3% in 2013 to 9% in 2022, indicating a trend towards increased racial mixing and diversity.
The demographic shifts in Mesa Vista II have been accompanied by economic changes. The median income increased from $38,807 in 2013 to $54,575 in 2022, representing a 40.6% increase over nine years. This income growth coincides with the transition to a more diverse racial composition, suggesting a possible correlation between increased diversity and economic improvement.
The population of the neighborhood has fluctuated, peaking at 1,745 in 2019 before declining to 1,347 in 2022. This population trend, when viewed alongside the income increase, might indicate a gentrification process, where higher-income residents are moving into the area, potentially displacing some lower-income families.
The demographic and economic trends observed in Mesa Vista II align with broader patterns seen in many urban and suburban areas across the United States, particularly in the Southwest. The increase in diversity, especially the growth in multiracial populations, reflects national trends reported in the 2020 U.S. Census, which showed the fastest-growing racial group to be those identifying as Two or More Races.
The economic improvements in Mesa Vista II, while significant, should be considered in the context of rising costs of living across many U.S. cities. The 40.6% increase in median income over nine years may not necessarily translate to an equivalent increase in purchasing power or quality of life for all residents, given potential increases in housing costs and other living expenses.
Mesa Vista II exemplifies a "Transitional Community." It has undergone a shift from a Hispanic Plurality to a Moderate Diversity area, accompanied by economic growth. These changes reflect broader national trends towards increased racial diversity and economic development in suburban areas, particularly in the Southwest. The potential for gentrification and displacement of long-term residents should be considered as the community continues to evolve.
