Loading Content...
Racial Diversity and Demographic Shifts in Zip Code 20740: A Study from 2013 to 2022
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Zip code 20740 in College Park, Maryland, transitioned from a "White Majority" area to a "High Diversity" area between 2013 and 2022. As of 2022, the racial composition was 37% White, 22% Black, 22% Hispanic, and 13% Asian, with smaller percentages of other racial groups. No single racial group comprises more than 40% of the population, and at least three groups have significant representation. The median income in 2022 was $69,723.
The demographic shift occurred gradually over the past decade. In 2013, the area was characterized as having a "White Majority" with 53% of the population identifying as White. From 2013 to 2015, it remained a White Majority area. Between 2016 and 2019, it transitioned to Moderate Diversity with a White plurality. From 2020 to 2022, it became a High Diversity area. This shift was primarily driven by increases in Hispanic and Black populations, as well as a growing Asian community.
The Hispanic population increased from 13% in 2013 to 22% in 2022, indicating a "Transitional Community" status for this group. The demographic changes correlated with changes in median income. As the community became more diverse, there was a general upward trend in median income, rising from $57,619 in 2013 to $69,723 in 2022. However, fluctuations occurred, with the median income peaking at $75,621 in 2021 before declining slightly in 2022.
The population grew steadily from 32,120 in 2013 to 35,744 in 2022. The combination of population growth, increasing diversity, and rising median income suggests that College Park has become an increasingly attractive location for various demographic groups.
The demographic shifts in College Park align with broader national trends towards increasing diversity, particularly in suburban areas near major cities. The proximity to Washington D.C. likely contributes to this trend. The increase in median income alongside increasing diversity counters narratives that associate increasing diversity with economic challenges. Instead, it suggests that diversity can be a driver of economic growth.
The significant increase in the Hispanic population mirrors national trends. The stability of the Asian population percentage suggests that College Park has maintained its appeal to this demographic, possibly due to the presence of the University of Maryland and associated job opportunities.
College Park's zip code 20740 has evolved into a highly diverse, economically vibrant area over the past decade. This transformation reflects both local dynamics and broader national trends towards increasing diversity and economic growth in suburban areas near major metropolitan centers.
