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Demographic Trends in Zip Code 98251: Increasing Racial Diversity in a Predominantly White Community
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The zip code 98251 in Gold Bar, Washington, is classified as a "Low Diversity" community with a white majority as of 2022. The area has a population of 3,065 and a median income of $68,437. Despite maintaining a predominantly white population, gradual demographic shifts have occurred over the past decade.
From 2013 to 2022, Gold Bar has consistently been categorized as "Low Diversity," with the white population comprising over 75% of the total. The white population has decreased from 87% in 2013 to 74% in 2022. The Hispanic population has shown the most significant growth, increasing from 7% in 2013 to 17% in 2022. Other racial groups, including Asian, Black, and those of two or more races, have also seen slight increases.
The median income in Gold Bar has remained relatively stable over the observed period, fluctuating between $65,750 and $71,815. The lowest median income ($65,750) was recorded in 2015, coinciding with a period of population decline. The highest median income ($71,815) was achieved in 2021, corresponding with a significant population increase. There does not appear to be a strong correlation between demographic shifts and median income changes.
The population of Gold Bar has experienced fluctuations. A steady decline from 3,182 in 2010 to 2,312 in 2017 was observed. This trend reversed from 2018 onwards, with the population increasing to 3,065 by 2022. The population rebound coincides with the period of increasing diversity, suggesting that the influx of new residents may be contributing to the changing demographic makeup of the community.
The trends observed in Gold Bar align with broader patterns seen in many American communities. These include increasing diversity in previously homogeneous areas, particularly through growth in Hispanic populations, demographic shifts in suburban and rural areas as urban areas become less affordable, and population rebounds in smaller communities as remote work becomes more prevalent.
Gold Bar remains a predominantly white community, but it is undergoing a gradual demographic transition. This shift towards greater diversity, coupled with recent population growth and stable median incomes, suggests a community in flux. As these trends continue, it will be important to monitor how they impact local economic conditions, community dynamics, and public services in the coming years.
