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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The South Area neighborhood of Wichita, Kansas, is characterized as a Moderate Diversity community with a White Majority as of 2022. The white population comprises 55% of the neighborhood, with Hispanic (22%) and Asian (12%) populations representing significant minorities. Over the past decade, the neighborhood has experienced demographic shifts towards increased diversity. The median income in 2022 was $51,657, indicating a middle-income suburban community. The neighborhood's proximity to Wichita State University likely influences its demographic and economic characteristics.
Over the past decade, the South Area has transitioned from a Low Diversity community with a strong White Majority to its current state of Moderate Diversity. In 2013, the white population constituted 71% of the neighborhood, which decreased to 55% by 2022. The neighborhood shows signs of being a Transitional Community, with significant increases in Hispanic, Asian, and multiracial populations. The Hispanic population grew from 11% in 2013 to 22% in 2022, while the Asian population increased from 4% to 12% in the same period. The percentage of residents identifying as two or more races rose from 6% to 9%.
The demographic shifts in the South Area correlate with economic trends. The median income increased from $47,157 in 2013 to $51,657 in 2022, representing a 9.5% increase. This growth has not been linear, with fluctuations observed throughout the decade. Periods of highest income growth seem to align with increases in diversity. The population of the neighborhood has fluctuated over the decade, peaking at 11,351 in 2014 and reaching its lowest point of 8,862 in 2020, before rebounding to 9,529 in 2022.
The demographic shifts observed in the South Area of Wichita align with broader national trends towards increasing diversity in suburban areas. Many U.S. cities have experienced similar transitions, with growing Hispanic and Asian populations contributing to more diverse community profiles. The economic resilience of the neighborhood, as evidenced by the overall growth in median income despite demographic changes, is consistent with national patterns where increased diversity often correlates with economic stability or growth in suburban areas.
The significant increase in the Asian population from 3% in 2020 to 12% in 2022 is notable and may be more pronounced than in many comparable neighborhoods nationwide. This could be related to specific local factors, such as targeted recruitment efforts by local industries or the university.
The South Area of Wichita exemplifies a community in transition, moving from Low Diversity to Moderate Diversity with potential for further diversification. These demographic changes, coupled with overall positive economic indicators, suggest a neighborhood adapting to broader societal shifts while maintaining its economic foundation.