Stevenson Demographics: Population Trends and Community Profile
Stevenson is a community characterized by its rural charm and a steady history of growth. From its early 20th-century roots to its current status, the city has evolved into a residential hub with a distinct demographic profile. Understanding the shifts in population, household structures, and age distribution provides a clear picture of how this community has changed over the last century.
The city's growth has been largely consistent, moving from a small settlement of fewer than 400 people in 1910 to a projected population of nearly 1,600 by 2025. This expansion reflects the enduring appeal of the region's rural lifestyle.
Key Facts
- Current Population: 1,491 residents as of the 2020 Census.
- Growth Trend: Estimated to reach 1,596 residents by 2025.
- Rural Status: 100% of the population resides in rural areas.
- Median Age: 47.6 years (2020 Census).
- Housing: 747 total housing units with a low homeowner vacancy rate of 1.1%.
- Demographic Shift: The population has grown from 387 in 1910 to 1,491 in 2020.
Population Growth and Historical Trends
Stevenson has experienced several waves of growth. After a slight dip in the 1920s, the population surged between 1930 and 1960, with a particularly significant jump of 58.7% between 1950 and 1960. While the growth rate has stabilized in recent decades, the city continues to expand slowly but steadily.
| Census Year | Population | Percentage Change |
|---|---|---|
| 1910 | 387 | — |
| 1940 | 563 | 40.8% |
| 1960 | 927 | 58.7% |
| 1980 | 1,172 | 27.9% |
| 2000 | 1,200 | 4.6% |
| 2020 | 1,491 | 1.8% |
| 2025 (est.) | 1,596 | 7.0% |
Community Composition and Households
As of the 2020 Census, Stevenson consists of 684 households and 399 families. The average household size is 2.15 people, while the average family size is slightly larger at 2.73. A significant portion of the community lives in single-person households, with 32.6% of all households consisting of one individual.
Household Dynamics
- Families with Children: 27.5% of households have children under 18.
- Married Couples: 43.6% of households are married-couple units.
- Single Householders: 21.2% are male householders (no spouse/partner) and 28.4% are female householders (no spouse/partner).
- Seniors: 15.3% of households consist of a person aged 65 or older living alone.
Housing and Vacancy
The city maintains 747 housing units. The overall vacancy rate is 8.4%, though the specific vacancy rates for homeowners (1.1%) and rentals (1.5%) remain very low, indicating a tight housing market.
Age and Racial Demographics
The median age in Stevenson has risen over the last two decades, from 39 years in 2000 to 47.6 years in 2020. This suggests an aging population, with 23.7% of residents now aged 65 or older.
Racial Makeup (2020 Census)
The community is predominantly White, though it maintains a diverse mix of backgrounds:
- White: 87.4%
- Two or more races: 7.5%
- Hispanic or Latino (any race): 5.6%
- Some other race: 2.1%
- American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.5%
- Asian: 1.3%
- Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1%
Economic Snapshot (2000 Data)
Historical data from the 2000 census provides insight into the city's economic baseline. At that time, the median household income was $31,979, and the median family income was $38,750. There was a notable income gap between genders, with males earning a median of $36,042 compared to $25,893 for females. Per capita income was recorded at $15,602, with 22.8% of the population living below the poverty line.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current population of Stevenson?
According to the 2020 Census, the population was 1,491, with estimates suggesting it will grow to 1,596 by 2025.
Is Stevenson considered an urban or rural area?
Stevenson is entirely rural; 100% of its residents live in rural areas.
What is the median age of residents in Stevenson?
The median age was 47.6 years as of the 2020 Census.
What is the racial composition of the city?
As of 2020, the population is 87.4% White, 7.5% two or more races, 5.6% Hispanic or Latino, and smaller percentages of other racial groups.
How many housing units are in Stevenson?
There were 747 housing units as of the 2020 Census, with a total vacancy rate of 8.4%.