Several socioeconomic factors may help explain the declining population density in zip code 44507. The median income, while showing an overall increase from $18,065 in 2013 to $24,322 in 2022, experienced significant fluctuations. Notably, there was a sharp rise to $26,210 in 2020, followed by declines in subsequent years. This volatility in income levels could contribute to population instability, as residents may seek more economically stable areas.

The employment-to-population ratio has shown some improvement, rising from 0.352 in 2013 to 0.421 in 2022. However, this increase has not been enough to stem the population decline, suggesting that job opportunities may still be insufficient to retain residents or attract new ones. The highest employment ratio of 0.426 was recorded in 2020, coinciding with the peak in median income, but both metrics have since declined slightly.

Housing trends in the zip code present a mixed picture. The percentage of owner-occupied housing units decreased from 48.05% in 2013 to 46.85% in 2022, indicating a slight shift towards renting. Concurrently, the median rent has remained relatively stable, increasing modestly from $598 in 2013 to $605 in 2022. The average home prices, however, have seen a significant increase from $14,857 in 2014 to $32,665 in 2022. This rise in property values, while potentially beneficial for homeowners, could be pricing out some residents and contributing to the population decline.

The racial composition of zip code 44507 has also undergone changes that may be linked to the population density decline. The Black population, while still the majority, decreased from 64.83% in 2013 to 59.64% in 2022. Conversely, the Hispanic population increased from 5.75% to 14.41% over the same period. These demographic shifts suggest complex social dynamics that could be influencing residential patterns and contributing to the overall population changes.

In conclusion, zip code 44507 in Youngstown, Ohio, has experienced the largest decline in population density over the past decade, driven by a significant decrease in total population. This trend is likely the result of a complex interplay of factors, including fluctuating income levels, employment rates, housing market dynamics, and changing racial demographics. While there have been some positive economic indicators, such as rising median incomes and home values, these have not been sufficient to reverse the population decline. The persistent decrease in population density poses challenges for local policymakers and community leaders, who may need to develop strategies to stabilize the population and enhance the area's attractiveness to both current and potential residents.