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Demographic Transition in North Elevation: From Low to Increasing Racial Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
North Elevation, a neighborhood in Billings, Montana, presents a demographic profile categorized as "Low Diversity" based on established terms. As of 2022, the white population comprises 73% of the total, which is just below the 75% threshold for this category. The neighborhood has experienced a gradual shift towards increased diversity over the past decade, with a growing Hispanic population and an increase in residents identifying as two or more races. Economically, North Elevation has maintained a relatively stable median income, approximately $55,000 in recent years. The neighborhood is known for its historical significance, with many homes dating back to the early 20th century, reflecting the area's long-standing importance in Billings' urban development.
Over the past decade, North Elevation has undergone a transition in its racial composition. In 2013, the neighborhood was classified as "Low Diversity," with 90% of the population identifying as white. By 2022, this percentage had decreased to 73%, placing the neighborhood between "Low Diversity" and "Moderate Diversity." The most significant changes have been an increase in the Hispanic population from 3% in 2013 to 11% in 2022, a rise in residents identifying as two or more races from 1% in 2013 to 10% in 2022, and a small emergence of Asian (1%) and Black (1%) populations by 2022. These shifts suggest that North Elevation is becoming a "Transitional Community," moving towards greater diversity.
The median income in North Elevation has shown moderate fluctuations over the past decade. In 2013, the median income was $49,738, which increased to a peak of $55,339 in 2015. After some variations, it settled at $55,466 in 2022. This relatively stable economic picture suggests that the neighborhood has maintained its economic status despite demographic changes. The population of North Elevation has experienced some volatility, decreasing from 5,243 in 2010 to a low of 4,135 in 2018, before rebounding to 5,095 in 2022. This population recovery coincides with the increase in racial diversity, potentially indicating that the neighborhood's growing diversity has contributed to its renewed population growth.
The demographic shifts observed in North Elevation align with broader national trends of increasing diversity in urban areas. However, the pace of change in this neighborhood appears to be slower than in many larger metropolitan areas across the United States. The stability of median income in North Elevation contrasts with national trends of growing income inequality, suggesting that this neighborhood has maintained a relatively consistent economic profile despite demographic changes.
The growth of the Hispanic population in North Elevation mirrors similar trends seen across many parts of the United States, particularly in Western states. The significant increase in residents identifying as two or more races is noteworthy and may be indicative of changing social dynamics and increased interracial relationships in the community.
North Elevation in Billings, Montana, is undergoing a gradual but significant demographic transition while maintaining economic stability. This evolution from a predominantly white community to one with increasing racial diversity reflects broader national trends but occurs at a pace unique to this historical neighborhood. As North Elevation continues to evolve, it will be important to observe how these demographic shifts influence local culture, community dynamics, and economic development in the coming years.
