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Demographic Transition in Wheelock/Velie Neighborhood: From Low to Moderate Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The Wheelock/Velie neighborhood in Moline, Illinois, has undergone significant demographic changes from 2013 to 2022. In 2013, the area had low diversity with a white majority of 77%. By 2022, it transitioned to moderate diversity, with the white population decreasing to 56% and the Hispanic population increasing from 14% to 34%. The black population also increased, reaching 10% by 2022. These shifts indicate a transitional community status.
The neighborhood experienced fluctuations in median income during this period. From 2013 to 2022, the median income increased from $62,316 to $68,604, representing a 10% growth over a decade. This growth did not keep pace with inflation, suggesting potential economic challenges for residents. The years of highest diversity (2016-2018) coincided with slightly lower median incomes, ranging from $60,916 to $62,384. As the community stabilized into its current moderate diversity state, incomes showed a more consistent upward trend, reaching a peak of $70,946 in 2021 before slightly declining in 2022.
The population remained relatively stable over the decade, fluctuating between approximately 1,200 and 1,600 residents. This stability in population size, combined with increasing diversity and modestly rising incomes, suggests a neighborhood attracting a mix of new residents while retaining much of its original population.
The demographic shifts observed in Wheelock/Velie align with broader national trends of increasing diversity in suburban areas. Many U.S. suburbs have experienced growth in Hispanic and other minority populations over the past decade, often accompanied by economic changes. The modest income growth in Wheelock/Veile may reflect challenges faced by many middle-class communities in keeping pace with rising living costs.
The transition from a predominantly white community to one of moderate diversity mirrors trends seen in many Midwestern cities, where historically homogeneous neighborhoods are becoming more diverse. This change often brings both opportunities and challenges, potentially affecting local businesses, schools, and community services as they adapt to serve a more diverse population.
Wheelock/Velie exemplifies a transitional community that has evolved from low diversity to moderate diversity over the past decade. This demographic shift, coupled with modest economic growth, presents both opportunities and challenges for community cohesion and development. As the neighborhood continues to change, it will be crucial for local leaders and residents to foster inclusive policies and practices that can harness the benefits of increased diversity while addressing any economic disparities that may arise.
