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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Potomac, Maryland, is categorized as a "White Majority" community with a high median income. As of 2022, the white population constitutes 60% of the total, while the Asian population forms a minority at 20%. The city's median income of $182,409 in 2022 places it among the wealthiest communities in the United States.
Over the past decade, Potomac has been transitioning from a "Low Diversity" community towards "Moderate Diversity." In 2013, the white population constituted 69% of the total, meeting the criteria for "Low Diversity." By 2022, this percentage had decreased to 60%, while the Asian population increased from 16% to 20%, and the Hispanic population grew from 7% to 10%.
The community is showing signs of becoming a "Transitional Community," particularly with the growth in Hispanic and multiracial populations. The percentage of residents identifying as two or more races doubled from 2% to 4% between 2013 and 2022.
Potomac's median income has remained stable, fluctuating between $182,000 and $187,000 over the past decade. This suggests that the influx of diverse populations has not significantly altered the community's overall economic status. The slight increase in median income from $182,573 in 2013 to $182,409 in 2022 indicates a marginal growth in wealth, keeping pace with inflation.
The population has remained relatively stable, growing only slightly from 48,663 in 2013 to 48,683 in 2022. This stability, combined with the consistent high median income, suggests that the demographic changes are likely due to generational shifts and changing migration patterns rather than large-scale displacement or gentrification.
Potomac's transition is occurring at a slower pace than the national average. The community's exceptionally high median income sets it apart from many other diversifying suburbs, where economic changes often accompany demographic shifts.
Based on the observed trends, Potomac is likely to continue its trajectory towards greater diversity. If current trends persist, the community may transition from a "White Majority" to a "Moderate Diversity" category within the next decade. The Asian population, in particular, may continue to grow, potentially leading to a situation where no single racial group constitutes a majority.
Economically, the area is likely to maintain its high-income status. The gradual increase in diversity without significant economic fluctuations suggests that new residents are likely entering with similar socioeconomic profiles to existing residents.
Potomac represents a case of a high-income, predominantly white community slowly transitioning towards greater diversity while maintaining its economic status. This gradual change suggests a carefully managed evolution rather than rapid demographic upheaval, potentially serving as a model for other affluent suburbs navigating similar transitions.