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Demographic Trends in Lewis and Clark Neighborhood: A Study of Racial Composition and Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The Lewis and Clark neighborhood in Missoula, Montana, exhibits characteristics of Low Diversity, with a white population of 77% as of 2022. This predominantly white community has experienced subtle shifts in its demographic makeup over the past decade, while maintaining its status as a relatively homogeneous area. The neighborhood's median income of $41,048 in 2022 is below the national median, suggesting a working-class or lower-middle-class economic profile. The neighborhood is known for its proximity to the University of Montana, which likely influences its demographic and economic dynamics.
Throughout the 2013-2022 period, the Lewis and Clark neighborhood has consistently fallen under the Low Diversity category, with the white population remaining above 75% for most years. The white population has decreased from 85% in 2013 to 77% in 2022, indicating a slow but steady diversification trend. The Native American population has seen an increase, from negligible levels in earlier years to 12% in 2021 and 2022. The Hispanic population has fluctuated between 1% and 4% over the decade. The proportion of residents identifying as two or more races has doubled from 4% in 2013 to 8% in 2022.
The median income in the Lewis and Clark neighborhood has fluctuated over the past decade. It peaked at $45,275 in 2015 before declining to $39,250 in 2017. After some recovery, it reached $43,551 in 2021 before dropping again to $41,048 in 2022. Overall, the median income has remained relatively stagnant, with a slight downward trend when adjusted for inflation.
The economic trends correlate with the demographic shifts in the following ways. The increase in Native American population coincides with a period of income volatility, suggesting possible economic challenges for new residents or changing economic dynamics in the community. The gradual increase in diversity has not been accompanied by significant economic growth, which might indicate that the neighborhood is attracting a diverse range of socioeconomic groups.
The demographic shifts in Lewis and Clark, while modest, align with broader national trends of increasing diversity in many urban and suburban areas. The significant increase in the Native American population may be related to specific local factors, such as university programs or community initiatives. The economic stagnation observed in the neighborhood is consistent with national trends of wage stagnation for middle and working-class households over the past decade. The proximity to the University of Montana may provide some economic stability through education-related employment and student housing demand.
While the Lewis and Clark neighborhood remains categorized as Low Diversity, it shows signs of gradual transition towards increased racial representation. This shift, coupled with relatively stagnant economic indicators, suggests a community in slow transition, potentially influenced by its proximity to the university and broader demographic trends in the region and nation.
