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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
East Pilsen, a neighborhood in Chicago, Illinois, currently exhibits a "Moderate Diversity" demographic profile with a significant Hispanic plurality. As of 2022, the neighborhood has a population of 1,988 and a median income of $79,298. East Pilsen is known for its vibrant arts scene and rich Mexican-American cultural heritage, which has been evolving alongside its changing demographics.
Over the past decade, East Pilsen has undergone a notable transition from a "Hispanic Majority" community to one of "Moderate Diversity." In 2013, the neighborhood was categorized as having a "Hispanic Majority" with 58% of the population identifying as Hispanic. However, by 2022, this percentage decreased to 39%, no longer constituting a majority. The neighborhood has seen a significant increase in its Asian population, rising from 7% in 2013 to 18% in 2022. The white population has also grown slightly from 31% to 34% during this period. These changes indicate a "Transitional Community" status, with increasing diversity over time.
The demographic shifts in East Pilsen correlate with substantial changes in median income. In 2013, the median income was $70,149, which increased to $79,298 by 2022, representing a 13% growth. This rise in income levels coincides with the influx of Asian and white residents, potentially indicating a process of gentrification. The population has also grown from 1,581 in 2013 to 1,988 in 2022, a 25.7% increase. This population growth, coupled with rising incomes and changing demographics, suggests an influx of higher-income residents from diverse backgrounds.
The changes observed in East Pilsen mirror broader trends seen in many urban neighborhoods across the United States. The decrease in the Hispanic population percentage and the increase in Asian and white residents is reminiscent of gentrification patterns observed in other historically Hispanic neighborhoods in major cities. The median income growth in East Pilsen outpaces the national average, which saw about a 10% increase in median household income from 2013 to 2022. This above-average income growth, combined with demographic shifts, suggests that East Pilsen is experiencing more rapid socioeconomic changes than many other areas in the country.
The neighborhood's evolution from a "Hispanic Majority" to "Moderate Diversity" reflects a broader national trend towards increasing diversity in urban areas. However, the rapidity and extent of these changes in East Pilsen are notable and may be indicative of accelerated urban development and demographic shifts in Chicago's near South Side. These trends highlight the complex interplay between demographic change, economic development, and community identity in East Pilsen. As the neighborhood continues to evolve, it will be important to monitor how these changes affect the area's cultural heritage, community cohesion, and economic opportunities for long-term residents.