Consider ways in which population grows and shifts within a city or town. Using the U.S. Census website, research population information for a particular state and city.

Question

Has the population increased or decreased in the city you chose?
Research and identify three points of demographic data for the city you chose:
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2
3
List three reasons or factors that could have played a role in this change in population.
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3

Answer 1

To provide an example of how to analyze population growth and demographic shifts, let's consider a hypothetical investigation into the city of Austin, Texas, based on data obtainable from the U.S. Census Bureau.

Population Change

1. Has the population increased or decreased in Austin, Texas?

• The population of Austin has generally increased significantly over the last decade. For instance, the population in 2010 was approximately 790,000, whereas the 2020 census recorded a population of about 961,855, indicating a substantial growth of about 21.7%.

Demographic Data Points

2. Three points of demographic data for Austin, Texas:

1. Median Age: As of 2020, the median age in Austin was approximately 33 years, indicating a relatively young population.
2. Ethnic Composition: Austin is diverse, with approximately 50% identifying as White, 29% as Hispanic or Latino, 7% as Black or African American, and 7% as Asian.
3. Income Levels: The median household income in Austin was about $75,000 in 2020, which is higher than the national average.

Factors Contributing to Population Change

3. Three reasons or factors that could have played a role in the population change in Austin:

1. Economic Opportunities: Austin has become a technology hub, attracting many professionals and entrepreneurs, which boosts population growth.
2. Quality of Life: The city is known for its vibrant culture, music scene, and outdoor lifestyle, making it an attractive place to live.
3. Education and Research Institutions: The presence of institutions like the University of Texas at Austin draws students and faculty, contributing to population increases.

By using the U.S. Census data, one can gather concrete statistics and understand broader trends affecting urban demographics. If you would like more specific information about another city or further details, please let me know!