City Demographics and Population Trends: A Historical Analysis
Analyzing the demographic shifts of a community provides vital insights into its growth, social structure, and economic health. By examining census data spanning over a century, we can observe how this city has evolved from its early 20th-century peaks to its current residential landscape.
Key Facts
- Peak Population: The city reached its highest recorded population of 903 residents in 1940.
- Recent Trend: There has been a steady population decline since 1940, with an estimated 591 residents in 2021.
- Age Profile: The community skews older, with a median age of 48.4 years as of the 2010 census.
- Racial Composition: The population is predominantly White, accounting for 95.8% of residents in 2010.
- Household Structure: Non-family households represent a significant portion of the community, at 45.6% in 2010.
Population Growth and Decline (1900–2021)
The city's population has experienced several fluctuations over the last 120 years. Starting with 569 residents in 1900, the population grew steadily for several decades, peaking in 1940. However, the latter half of the century was characterized by a gradual decline.
Between 1940 and 2020, the population dropped from 903 to 606. The most recent estimate from 2021 suggests a further slight decrease to 591 residents, representing a 2.5% drop from the previous census.
| Census Year | Population | Percentage Change (%) |
|---|---|---|
| 1900 | 569 | — |
| 1920 | 805 | 27.0% |
| 1940 | 903 | 31.3% |
| 1960 | 785 | -10.9% |
| 1980 | 681 | -9.6% |
| 2000 | 638 | -4.8% |
| 2020 | 606 | -3.0% |
| 2021 (est.) | 591 | -2.5% |
Detailed Community Profile: 2010 Census
The 2010 census provides a detailed snapshot of the city's social and physical makeup. With 625 residents, the population density—the number of people living per unit of area—was 631.3 inhabitants per square mile. The city contained 311 housing units, averaging 314.1 units per square mile.
The racial composition remained largely homogenous, with 95.8% identifying as White, 2.6% as two or more races, 1.3% as Native American, 0.2% as Asian, and 0.2% as Pacific Islander. Additionally, 1.8% of the population identified as Hispanic or Latino of any race.
Household and Family Dynamics
Of the 285 households recorded, 44.2% were married couples living together, while 45.6% were classified as non-families. A significant 41.4% of all households consisted of individuals living alone, and 22.1% of these were individuals aged 65 or older. The average household size was 2.03, while the average family size was slightly larger at 2.72.
Age and Gender Distribution
The median age in 2010 was 48.4 years. The age distribution shows a significant elderly population, with 28.8% of residents aged 65 or older. Other brackets included 26.2% (45–64), 19% (25–44), 7.8% (18–24), and 18.2% under the age of 18. The gender split was 52.0% female and 48.0% male.
Economic Indicators and 2000 Census Data
Data from the 2000 census offers a glimpse into the city's economic standing at the turn of the millennium. At that time, the median income for a household was $31,328, while families earned a median of $38,529. There was a notable gender pay gap, with males earning a median income of $31,250 compared to $21,875 for females.
The per capita income—the average income earned per person—was $20,676. Poverty levels affected 7.6% of the total population and 4.9% of families. Specifically, 5.9% of residents under 18 and 13.5% of those aged 65 or older lived below the poverty line.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the highest population the city ever reached?
The city reached its peak population in 1940, with a total of 903 residents.
How has the population changed since 1940?
Since 1940, the city has experienced a consistent downward trend, decreasing from 903 residents to an estimated 591 by 2021.
What is the racial makeup of the city?
Based on the 2010 census, the city is 95.8% White, 2.6% from two or more races, 1.3% Native American, 0.2% Asian, and 0.2% Pacific Islander, with 1.8% identifying as Hispanic or Latino.
What is the median age of the residents?
As of the 2010 census, the median age was 48.4 years, with nearly 29% of the population aged 65 or older.
What were the income levels in the year 2000?
In 2000, the median household income was $31,328, the median family income was $38,529, and the per capita income was $20,676.