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Demographic Trends in Seattle's 98115 Zip Code: A Study of Racial Composition
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The 98115 zip code in Seattle, Washington, is classified as a "White Majority" community with moderate diversity as of 2022. The area has a population of 53,916 and a median household income of $127,988. Whites constitute 73% of the population, with Asians representing 14% and other racial groups showing increasing presence.
Over the past decade, the 98115 zip code has been transitioning from a "Low Diversity" area towards a more diverse community, while maintaining its "White Majority" status. In 2013, the white population constituted 80% of the total, categorizing it as "Low Diversity". By 2022, this percentage had decreased to 73%, indicating a gradual shift towards greater diversity.
The most significant change has been the increase in the Asian population, growing from 9% in 2013 to 14% in 2022. This growth, along with modest increases in Hispanic and multi-racial populations, suggests the area is evolving into a "Transitional Community". The area has not yet reached the threshold for "High Diversity", but trends indicate movement in that direction.
The demographic shifts in the 98115 zip code have occurred alongside substantial economic growth. The median household income has risen from $104,899 in 2013 to $127,988 in 2022, representing a 22% increase. This growth outpaces inflation and suggests that the area has become increasingly attractive to higher-income households.
The highest median income was recorded in 2021 at $143,796, with a slight decrease in 2022. This could indicate a potential shift in the economic landscape, possibly influenced by broader economic factors or changes in the local job market. The population has grown steadily, from 47,251 in 2013 to 53,916 in 2022, a 14% increase. This growth, coupled with rising incomes, suggests that the area has become increasingly desirable.
The demographic changes in the 98115 zip code mirror broader trends seen in many urban areas across the United States, where traditionally white-majority neighborhoods are becoming more diverse. The rate of change in this zip code appears to be slower than in some other urban areas. The economic growth in this area has been particularly strong compared to national averages. While the U.S. median household income grew by about 11% between 2013 and 2022 (adjusted for inflation), the 98115 zip code saw a 22% increase.
The 98115 zip code in Seattle is undergoing a gradual demographic transition, moving from a predominantly white, low-diversity area towards a more diverse community. This shift is occurring in tandem with strong economic growth, suggesting that the increasing diversity is linked to the area's growing prosperity and desirability. As this trend continues, it will be important to monitor how these changes affect local community dynamics, housing affordability, and socio-economic integration.
