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Demographic Trends in Athens, Ohio: Racial Composition and Economic Growth
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Athens, Ohio, is classified as a "Low Diversity" area based on demographic data from 2022. The white population comprises 83% of the total, exceeding the 75% threshold for this classification. The city's median income is $46,577, showing an increase from previous years. This demographic composition and economic status provide context for analyzing the city's changes over the past decade.
Athens has maintained its "Low Diversity" status from 2013 to 2022. The white population has remained the dominant racial group, never falling below 83% of the total population. The white population percentage decreased slightly from 85% in 2013 to 83% in 2022. The percentage of people identifying as two or more races increased from 2% in 2013 to 4% in 2022. The Black population increased from 4% to 5% between 2013 and 2019, stabilizing at 4% from 2020 onwards. These changes indicate a slow trend towards slightly increased diversity.
The median income in Athens has grown significantly over the past decade. From 2013 to 2022, the median income increased from $25,712 to $46,577, an 81% growth. A sharp increase occurred between 2016 ($28,060) and 2019 ($41,935). A slight decrease occurred in 2020 and 2021, before rebounding in 2022. This income growth does not appear directly correlated with demographic shifts, given the relatively stable racial composition.
The persistent low diversity of Athens contrasts with the general trend of increasing diversity seen in many U.S. cities over the past decade. The significant income growth aligns with broader economic recovery trends observed nationally since the 2008 financial crisis.
Based on observed trends, Athens is likely to maintain its "Low Diversity" status in the near future, given the slow pace of demographic change. The city might gradually move towards a "Moderate Diversity" category over the next 10-20 years if current trends continue. The consistent income growth, if sustained, could potentially attract more diverse populations. The city might be classified as a "Transitional Community" in the coming years if the incremental increases in minority populations continue their upward trajectory.
Athens remains a predominantly white, low-diversity community. Subtle demographic shifts and significant economic improvements suggest a potential for gradual diversification in the long term. Continued monitoring of these trends will be crucial to understanding the evolving nature of this community.
