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Demographic Trends in Oread Neighborhood: From Low to Moderate Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
DATA SOURCE
United States Census Bureau: American Community Survey Data (ACS)
The Oread neighborhood in Lawrence, Kansas, exhibits characteristics of a White Majority community with moderate diversity as of 2022. The white population comprises 78% of the neighborhood, while other racial groups have notable representation. The median income of $29,307 in 2022 suggests a predominantly middle-class area, likely influenced by its proximity to the University of Kansas.
Over the past decade, Oread has undergone a gradual transition from Low Diversity to Moderate Diversity. In 2013, the neighborhood was categorized as Low Diversity with 86% white population. By 2022, this percentage decreased to 78%, while other racial groups, particularly Asian, Black, and Hispanic populations, saw increases. This shift indicates a Transitional Community, moving towards greater diversity.
The most significant changes occurred in the Asian and Black populations, which increased from 3% to 4% and 2% to 5% respectively between 2013 and 2022. The Hispanic population remained relatively stable around 5-6%. The percentage of individuals identifying as two or more races also increased from 2% to 6%, further contributing to the neighborhood's growing diversity.
The median income in Oread has shown considerable fluctuation over the past decade, with an overall upward trend. From $17,781 in 2013, it rose to $29,307 in 2022, representing a 65% increase. This growth in median income correlates with the increasing diversity, suggesting that the neighborhood may be attracting more diverse, higher-income residents.
The population has remained relatively stable, fluctuating between about 5,800 and 6,600 residents over the decade. This stability, combined with increasing diversity and rising incomes, suggests a gradual gentrification process rather than rapid displacement.
The demographic shifts in Oread align with broader national trends of increasing diversity in urban areas, particularly those near universities. The growth in the Asian and multi-racial populations reflects similar patterns seen in many college towns across the United States.
The economic trends in Oread, particularly the overall increase in median income, are consistent with national patterns of income growth in urban areas. However, the significant year-to-year fluctuations may be more pronounced in Oread due to its large student population, which can lead to more volatile economic indicators compared to more stable residential neighborhoods.
Oread represents a Transitional Community, evolving from Low Diversity to Moderate Diversity over the past decade. This demographic shift, coupled with overall economic growth, suggests a neighborhood in flux, likely influenced by its proximity to the University of Kansas and broader urban development trends.
