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Demographic Transition in Ranchets: From White Majority to Moderate Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The Ranchets neighborhood in Midwest City, Oklahoma, has transitioned from a "White Majority" community to one of "Moderate Diversity" over the past decade. As of 2022, the neighborhood has a population of 10,979 and a median income of $54,616. The area has shown resilience and growth despite economic fluctuations, potentially due to its proximity to Tinker Air Force Base.
In 2013, the white population constituted 68% of residents. By 2022, this percentage dropped to 57%. The percentage of residents identifying as two or more races increased from 4% in 2013 to 11% in 2022. The Hispanic population grew from 7% to 11% during the same period. This trend indicates a "Transitional Community," moving towards greater diversity.
The demographic shifts correlate with a steady increase in median income. In 2013, the median income was $45,504, rising to $54,616 by 2022 – a 20% increase over the decade. This economic growth may have attracted a more diverse population, possibly including skilled workers affiliated with the nearby air force base or other growing industries in the area.
The population has remained relatively stable, fluctuating between about 9,800 and 11,100 residents over the decade. This stability, combined with increasing diversity and rising incomes, suggests a gradually evolving community rather than rapid, disruptive change.
The trends observed in Ranchets align with broader national patterns of increasing diversity in suburban areas. Many U.S. suburbs have experienced similar transitions from predominantly white communities to more diverse neighborhoods over the past few decades. The steady increase in median income also reflects a national trend of economic recovery and growth following the 2008 recession, although Ranchets' growth appears more consistent than some areas that experienced more volatility.
The proximity to Tinker Air Force Base likely contributes to the area's economic stability and growing diversity. Military bases often attract a diverse workforce and can provide a buffer against economic downturns, which may explain the neighborhood's resilience and gradual positive economic trajectory.
Ranchets exemplifies a suburban neighborhood in transition, moving from a white majority to a more diverse community while experiencing steady economic growth. This evolution reflects broader national trends but also showcases the unique influences of local factors such as the nearby military installation. As the community continues to diversify, it may face both opportunities and challenges in maintaining social cohesion and equitable economic growth for all residents.
