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Preston Smith 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
Preston Smith, a neighborhood in Lubbock, Texas, exhibits characteristics of Low Diversity with a White Majority. As of 2022, the white population constitutes 71% of the neighborhood, with Hispanic residents forming the second-largest group at 22%. The area's median income of $77,077 in 2022 suggests an upper-middle-class community. Preston Smith is named after the former Texas governor and president of Texas Tech University, reflecting the area's connection to local history and education.
Over the past decade, Preston Smith has consistently maintained its status as a White Majority neighborhood. However, there is a trend towards increased diversity. In 2013, the neighborhood showed extremely Low Diversity, with 80% white population and 16% Hispanic. By 2022, while still categorized as Low Diversity, the white population decreased to 71%, and the Hispanic population increased to 22%. The area is showing signs of becoming a Transitional Community, with gradual increases in Hispanic, Asian, and multiracial populations.
The neighborhood's economic situation has shown some fluctuations. Median income peaked in 2021 at $90,219 but dropped to $77,077 in 2022. Despite this recent drop, the overall trend from 2013 to 2022 shows a slight increase in median income from $82,797 to $77,077. The population has remained relatively stable, with minor fluctuations between 7,700 and 8,400 residents. The gradual increase in diversity correlates with periods of both economic growth and decline, suggesting that demographic changes are not solely driven by economic factors.
Preston Smith's demographic shifts align with broader national trends of increasing diversity in suburban areas. However, the pace of change is slower than in many other parts of the country. The neighborhood's median income remains above the national average, indicating that it continues to attract affluent residents despite demographic changes.
The slight increase in diversity, coupled with generally high incomes, suggests that Preston Smith is experiencing a form of suburban integration, where minority groups with higher socioeconomic status are moving into traditionally white, affluent areas. This trend is observed in many growing metropolitan areas across the United States.
Preston Smith remains a predominantly white, upper-middle-class neighborhood, but shows signs of gradual diversification. This trend, if continued, may lead to a more diverse community in the coming years, potentially shifting from Low Diversity to Moderate Diversity. The economic stability of the area, despite recent fluctuations, suggests that these demographic changes are occurring within a context of overall prosperity, which could facilitate a smoother transition and integration of new residents from diverse backgrounds.
