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Demographic Transition in West Yarmouth: From Low to Increasing Racial Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
West Yarmouth, Massachusetts, is a community transitioning from low to increasing racial diversity. As of 2022, the population of 9,367 was 72% white, categorizing it as a "Low Diversity" area. The median income was $65,333. West Yarmouth, located on Cape Cod, is known for its beaches and popularity as a summer destination.
Over the past decade, West Yarmouth has experienced significant demographic shifts. In 2013, the white population comprised 91% of residents, but by 2022 this had decreased to 72%. Concurrently, the black population increased from 3% to 12%, the Hispanic population grew from 1% to 3%, and the "two or more races" category rose from 1% to 8%. These changes indicate a transition towards "Moderate Diversity."
Economic trends in West Yarmouth have fluctuated. The median income rose from $62,794 in 2013 to a peak of $77,545 in 2017, but subsequently declined to $65,333 in 2022. This suggests that increasing diversity has not correlated with sustained economic growth. The population grew from 8,540 in 2013 to 9,367 in 2022, indicating continued attraction of new residents despite economic fluctuations.
The demographic shifts in West Yarmouth align with national trends of increasing diversity in suburban and coastal areas. However, the increase in the black population from 3% to 12% is more pronounced than national averages. This could be attributed to West Yarmouth's proximity to diverse urban areas or changes in local employment opportunities.
The economic fluctuations, particularly the decline in median income since 2017, may be influenced by broader factors such as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on tourism-dependent economies like Cape Cod. The area's reliance on seasonal tourism could explain some of the economic volatility.
West Yarmouth is undergoing a significant demographic transition from a predominantly white community to one with increasing racial diversity. This shift has coincided with economic challenges as reflected in the declining median income. The ongoing evolution of the community necessitates monitoring of how these demographic changes impact local economic development, community services, and social dynamics.
