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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Plainfield, New Jersey, is categorized as a Majority-Minority city with a Hispanic Plurality. As of 2022, the Hispanic population constitutes 52% of the total, followed by Black residents at 35%. The city's median income is $68,728, with a population of 54,358. This demographic composition reflects a High Diversity environment, with significant representation from multiple racial groups.
Over the past decade, Plainfield has transitioned from a Black Plurality to a Hispanic Majority community. In 2013, the city exhibited a Moderate Diversity profile with a Black Plurality (43%) and significant Hispanic representation (38%). By 2022, these proportions had shifted, with Hispanics becoming the majority at 52% and the Black population decreasing to 35%.
This transition can be categorized as a Transitional Community, with consistent year-over-year increases in the Hispanic population and decreases in the Black population. The White and Asian populations have remained relatively stable, maintaining their minority status throughout the period.
The median income in Plainfield has fluctuated over the years, showing no clear correlation with the demographic shifts. From 2013 to 2022, the median income changed from $70,218 to $68,728, with variations in between. There was an increase to $75,230 in 2021 before decreasing in 2022.
The population has grown from 49,955 in 2013 to 54,358 in 2022, an increase of about 8.8%. This population growth, coupled with the demographic shift, suggests that the Hispanic community has been a major contributor to the city's expansion.
The demographic shift in Plainfield reflects broader trends seen in many urban areas across the United States, where Hispanic populations have been growing rapidly. This trend is particularly pronounced in the Northeast and areas with historically significant Black populations.
Based on the observed trends, Plainfield will likely continue to evolve as a Hispanic Majority city. The Hispanic population may continue to grow, potentially reaching or exceeding 55% in the coming years. If current trends persist, the city might transition from a High Diversity environment to a Moderate Diversity one, with Hispanics becoming increasingly dominant while other groups maintain significant but smaller representations.
Economically, the fluctuations in median income suggest that the city may face challenges in maintaining economic stability. The recent drop in median income from 2021 to 2022 could indicate economic pressures that may continue in the short term.
Plainfield exemplifies a dynamic urban environment undergoing significant demographic transformation. As it solidifies its status as a Hispanic Majority city, local policies and community services may need to adapt to serve this changing population effectively while ensuring the needs of all demographic groups are met in this evolving landscape.