Loading Content...
Demographic Transition in Zip Code 20872: From Low to Moderate Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The zip code 20872 in Damascus, Maryland, represents a community categorized as having a "White Majority" with moderate diversity as of 2022. The area has a median income of $121,174, indicating an affluent suburban community. The population has remained stable over the past decade, with fluctuations around 12,000 residents.
Damascus has transitioned from a community with "Low Diversity" to one with "Moderate Diversity" over the past decade. In 2013, the white population constituted 73% of the total. By 2022, this percentage decreased to 64%, while other racial groups increased in representation. The Hispanic population increased from 9% in 2013 to 15% in 2022. The Black population grew from 8% in 2013 to 12% in 2022. The Asian population increased slightly from 5% in 2013 to 6% in 2022.
These shifts suggest that Damascus is becoming a "Transitional Community," with a trend towards increasing diversity. The community is moving closer to potentially becoming a "Majority-Minority" area in the future if current trends continue.
The demographic shifts in Damascus have occurred alongside a general upward trend in median income. From 2013 to 2022, the median income increased from $114,674 to $121,174, representing a growth of about 5.7% over nine years. The highest median income was recorded in 2021 at $130,377, coinciding with the period of increased racial diversification.
The population has remained relatively stable throughout this period, fluctuating between about 11,600 and 12,300 residents. This stability, combined with rising incomes and increasing diversity, may indicate that the area is attracting a mix of affluent families from various racial backgrounds.
The trends observed in Damascus align with broader national patterns of increasing diversity in suburban areas. Many affluent suburbs across the United States have experienced similar demographic shifts, with growing representation of Hispanic, Asian, and Black populations. The rate of change in Damascus appears to be more gradual compared to some rapidly diversifying suburbs in other parts of the country.
The consistent increase in median income alongside increasing diversity is a positive indicator, suggesting that the community has been able to maintain its economic status while becoming more inclusive. This trend contrasts with some areas where rapid demographic changes have been associated with economic challenges.
Damascus represents a "Transitional Community" that is gradually evolving from a predominantly white, low-diversity area to a more diverse suburban community while maintaining its economic prosperity. This balanced transition could serve as a model for other communities aiming to increase diversity without experiencing economic disruption.
