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Demographic Transitions in Maplewood: A Study of Racial Composition and Economic Growth
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Maplewood, a neighborhood in Renton, Washington, is classified as "White Majority" with 59% of the population identifying as white in 2022. The neighborhood shows signs of increasing diversity, potentially transitioning towards a "Moderate Diversity" classification. Maplewood has a median income of $102,567 in 2022, representing an affluent suburban community. The neighborhood is known for its proximity to the Boeing assembly plant, which has historically influenced the area's demographics and economy.
Over the past decade, Maplewood has undergone significant demographic changes. In 2013, the neighborhood was classified as having "Moderate Diversity," with no single racial group exceeding 50% of the population. The white population constituted 42%, with Asian (20%) and Black (18%) populations also significant. By 2018, the community had transitioned to a "White Majority" status, with the white population reaching 63%. This shift coincided with a decrease in the Asian population, dropping from 20% in 2013 to 7% in 2018.
In recent years, while maintaining a "White Majority" status, Maplewood shows signs of becoming a "Transitional Community." The Hispanic population has grown from 7% in 2018 to 22% in 2022, indicating a trend towards increasing diversity. The demographic shifts have occurred alongside economic growth. The median income has risen from $92,479 in 2013 to $102,567 in 2022, representing an increase of about 11% over the decade. This economic growth may have influenced the changing racial composition, potentially attracting more diverse, affluent residents to the area.
The population of Maplewood has fluctuated over the years, peaking at 707 in 2017 before declining to 618 in 2022. This population change, coupled with rising incomes, suggests a possible trend of gentrification or changing housing dynamics in the neighborhood.
The demographic changes in Maplewood reflect broader trends seen in many suburban areas across the United States. The increase in Hispanic population aligns with national trends of growing Hispanic communities in suburban areas. However, the maintenance of a white majority in Maplewood contrasts with many urban areas that have become more diverse or transitioned to majority-minority status over the same period.
The economic growth in Maplewood outpaces the national average, with its median income significantly higher than the U.S. median household income of $70,784 in 2021. This economic strength, possibly influenced by the presence of major employers like Boeing, may continue to shape the neighborhood's demographic composition in the coming years.
Maplewood presents a case of a suburban neighborhood experiencing both economic growth and demographic transition. While maintaining a white majority, it shows signs of increasing diversity, particularly with the growth of its Hispanic population. These changes, set against the backdrop of rising incomes, suggest a dynamic community adapting to broader socio-economic trends while potentially facing challenges related to affordability and inclusion.
