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North Deering Neighborhood: A Study of Racial Demographics and Diversity Trends
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
North Deering, a neighborhood in Portland, Maine, exhibits a demographic profile categorized as "Low Diversity" based on established criteria. As of 2022, the white population comprises 83% of the total, exceeding the 75% threshold for this classification. The neighborhood has experienced modest diversification over the past decade, with a current median income of $89,112, indicating an affluent community. North Deering is characterized by its suburban nature within Portland, featuring a mix of single-family homes and newer developments, contributing to its appeal for families and professionals.
From 2013 to 2022, North Deering has consistently fallen under the "Low Diversity" category, with the white population dominating throughout this period. The white population decreased from 91% in 2013 to 83% in 2022. The Black population increased from 2% to 9% during this period. Asian and Hispanic populations showed slight increases. The "Two or More Races" category doubled from 2% to 4%. These changes indicate a slow but steady trend towards greater racial diversity, potentially classifying as an early stage of a "Transitional Community," albeit at a relatively slow pace compared to more rapidly diversifying urban areas.
The median income in North Deering has fluctuated over the years but generally remained high. It peaked at $104,103 in 2018. There was a notable drop to $91,484 in 2020, likely influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2022 figure of $89,112 represents a slight decrease from the 2021 level of $97,132. These income levels suggest that North Deering remains an affluent area, which may influence its demographic composition. The high median income could be a factor in maintaining the area's predominantly white population, as socioeconomic factors often correlate with racial demographics in many U.S. communities.
North Deering is slowly diversifying, but its pace of change is slower than many urban areas across the United States. The neighborhood's racial composition changes reflect broader national trends of increasing diversity, but at a more modest rate. The persistent high median income, despite recent fluctuations, suggests that North Deering remains an economically stable area, which may affect the pace of demographic change.
Compared to national averages, North Deering's white population (83%) is significantly higher than the U.S. average (about 60% as of 2020 Census). The increase in the Black population from 2% to 9% over a decade is notable, possibly indicating improved economic opportunities or changing housing patterns in the broader Portland area.
The economic resilience of North Deering, as evidenced by its consistently high median income even through the pandemic, suggests that it may be somewhat insulated from broader economic shocks. This economic stability could be a factor in the gradual nature of its demographic changes, as rapid shifts in community composition are often associated with more dramatic economic or policy changes.
North Deering remains a predominantly white, affluent neighborhood, but it is experiencing a slow but steady increase in diversity. This gradual change, coupled with its economic stability, suggests a community in the early stages of transition, balancing traditional demographics with emerging diversity.
