Loading Content...
Demographic Trends in Zip Code 35987: A Shift from White Majority to Increasing Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Zip code 35987 in Steele, Alabama, is classified as a "Low Diversity" community with a "White Majority" as of 2022. The area has a population of 2,717 and a median income of $60,957. Over the past decade, this community has experienced subtle yet significant demographic shifts and economic fluctuations.
The demographic shifts in Steele indicate a gradual transition from an extremely homogeneous community to one showing early signs of diversification, although it remains in the "Low Diversity" category. The white population percentage decreased from 92% in 2013 to 75% in 2022. Concurrently, the Hispanic population increased from 2% in 2013 to 19% in 2022, suggesting a transition towards greater diversity. The percentage of individuals identifying as two or more races also increased to 4% by 2022.
Economic trends in Steele have been generally positive. Median income rose from $38,834 in 2013 to $60,957 in 2022, an increase of about 57% over the decade. The population remained relatively stable, growing from 2,558 in 2013 to 2,717 in 2022, an increase of about 6%. Despite a dip in median income in 2018-2019, the community showed strong recovery, with incomes rising sharply in 2020 and continuing to grow through 2022.
The increase in diversity, particularly the growth of the Hispanic population, coincides with the overall increase in median income. This could suggest that the influx of new residents has contributed to economic growth in the area. The stability in population numbers, coupled with increasing diversity and rising incomes, may indicate that Steele is attracting a mix of new residents while retaining its existing population, potentially due to improving economic conditions.
The trends observed in Steele align with broader national patterns. Many rural and small-town areas across the U.S. have experienced increasing diversity, particularly with growth in Hispanic populations. The significant increase in median income over the decade outpaces national averages, suggesting Steele may be benefiting from localized economic factors or development initiatives. The strong economic performance post-2020 is notable, as many communities struggled economically during the COVID-19 pandemic. This resilience may indicate strong local economic fundamentals or successful adaptation to changing economic conditions.
Steele remains a predominantly white, low-diversity community, but it shows clear signs of transitioning towards greater diversity. This demographic shift, coupled with significant economic growth, suggests a community in the early stages of transformation. The coming years will be crucial in determining whether these trends continue, potentially moving Steele towards a more diverse and economically robust future.
