Village Demographic Trends and Census Analysis

Village Demographic Trends and Census Analysis

Analyzing the demographic shifts of a community provides vital insights into its growth, social structure, and economic health. By examining data from the U.S. Decennial Census—the official count of the population conducted every ten years—we can track how this village has evolved from 1960 through 2020.

Key Facts

  • Population Peak: The population reached its highest recorded point in 2000 with 606 residents.
  • Recent Growth: Between 2010 and 2020, the population grew by 5.7%.
  • Racial Composition: The community is predominantly White, accounting for 98.5% of the population as of 2010.
  • Age Profile: The median age has remained relatively stable, recorded at 43 in 2000 and 42.1 in 2010.
  • Gender Balance: As of 2010, the population was 52.2% female and 47.8% male.

Population Trends (1960–2020)

The village has experienced fluctuating population levels over the last six decades. After a steady start in 1960, the community saw a significant surge in 2000, followed by a decline in 2010 and a slight recovery by 2020.

Population Changes by Census Year
Census Year Population Percentage Change (%)
1960 506
1970 544 7.5%
1980 507 −6.8%
1990 415 −18.1%
2000 606 46.0%
2010 523 −13.7%
2020 553 5.7%

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Detailed 2010 Census Analysis

The 2010 census provides a comprehensive snapshot of the village's social and physical landscape. With 523 residents, the population density—the number of people living per unit of area—was 450.9 inhabitants per square mile (174.1/km²).

Housing and Households

There were 209 households and 257 total housing units. The average household size was 2.50, while the average family size was slightly larger at 3.06. Household structures varied significantly:

  • Married couples: 47.8% of households.
  • Non-families: 32.5% of households.
  • Households with children under 18: 29.2%.
  • Single-person households: 27.8%, with 13.4% consisting of individuals aged 65 or older living alone.

Racial and Age Distribution

The racial makeup was 98.5% White, 0.8% Asian, 0.4% African American, and 0.4% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino residents of any race made up 0.8% of the population.

The age distribution showed a balanced spread, with the largest group being those aged 45 to 64 (27.2%), followed by those under 18 (23.7%) and those aged 25 to 44 (23.4%). Residents aged 65 and older represented 18% of the population.

Historical Perspective: The 2000 Census

Comparing 2010 data to the 2000 census reveals a period of higher density and different economic markers. In 2000, the population was 606, resulting in a higher population density of 721.6 people per square mile (278.5/km²).

Economic Indicators

Financial data from 2000 highlights the economic standing of the village residents:

  • Median Household Income: $33,393.
  • Median Family Income: $38,281.
  • Per Capita Income: $15,455.
  • Gender Income Gap: Males had a median income of $30,455, compared to $20,875 for females.

Regarding economic hardship, 11.2% of the total population lived below the poverty line—the minimum level of income deemed adequate in a particular country. This included 14.7% of children under 18 and 11.2% of seniors aged 65 or older.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the highest population recorded in the village?

The highest population was recorded during the 2000 census, with a total of 606 residents.

How has the population density changed between 2000 and 2010?

The population density decreased from 721.6 people per square mile in 2000 to 450.9 inhabitants per square mile in 2010.

What was the racial composition of the village in 2010?

In 2010, the village was 98.5% White, 0.8% Asian, 0.4% African American, and 0.4% from two or more races, with 0.8% identifying as Hispanic or Latino.

What was the median age of residents in 2010?

The median age in the village was 42.1 years as of the 2010 census.

What was the poverty rate in the village in 2000?

In 2000, 11.2% of the total population and 12.7% of families were living below the poverty line.

References

  1. West Virginia Legislature (2018). "Section Ten: Municipalities". West Virginia Blue Book, 2017-2018 (PDF). Charleston, West Virginia: West Virginia Legislature. p. 949.
  2. "2019 U.S. Gazetteer Files". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved August 7, 2020.
  3. "Census Bureau profile: Beech Bottom village, West Virginia". United States Census Bureau. May 2023. Retrieved May 25, 2025.
  4. "U.S. Census website". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved January 31, 2008.
  5. "Beech Bottom". Geographic Names Information System. United States Geological Survey, United States Department of the Interior. Retrieved February 24, 2026.