Bay Center Demographics and Population Trends
Bay Center is a census designated place (CDP)—a statistical entity defined by the U.S. Census Bureau for areas that lack a separate municipal government but are locally recognized as communities. Since first appearing in the 2000 U.S. Census, Bay Center has experienced fluctuating population shifts and evolving ethnic compositions.
Key Facts
- Population Peak: The population reached its highest recorded point in 2010 with 276 residents.
- Recent Trend: Between 2010 and 2020, the population decreased by 8.3%.
- Ethnic Diversity: The community features a significant Native American presence and a growing Hispanic or Latino population.
- Household Structure: As of 2000, the average household size was 2.49 people.
Population Growth and Changes
Over the last two decades, Bay Center has seen notable shifts in its total population. From a baseline of 174 residents in 2000, the community grew significantly by 58.6% to reach 276 people by 2010. However, this growth trend reversed in the following decade, with the 2020 census reporting a decline to 253 residents.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Demographic Summary Table
| Metric | 2000 | 2010 | 2020 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Population | 174 | 276 | 253 |
| White alone (NH) | 67.24% | 67.75% | 58.10% |
| Native American (NH) | 14.37% | — | 8.30% |
| Hispanic or Latino (Any Race) | 10.34% | 8.70% | 17.00% |
| Mixed Race/Multiracial (NH) | 7.47% | 11.96% | 13.83% |
Racial and Ethnic Composition
The racial makeup of Bay Center has shifted over time. While those identifying as White (Non-Hispanic) remained the majority, their share of the population decreased from 67.24% in 2000 to 58.10% in 2020. Conversely, the Hispanic or Latino community has seen growth, rising to 17% of the population by 2020.
Other notable groups include the Native American population, which stood at 14.37% in 2000, and a steadily increasing multiracial population, which grew from 7.47% in 2000 to 13.83% in 2020.
Detailed 2000 Census Analysis
Housing and Density
In 2000, Bay Center had a population density of 443.7 people per square mile. The community consisted of 70 households and 42 families, with 92 total housing units. Approximately 34.3% of households included children under 18, and 45.7% were married couples living together.
Age and Gender Distribution
The median age in 2000 was 30 years. The population was distributed across various age brackets: 31% were under 18, 13.2% were between 18 and 24, 22.4% were between 25 and 44, 19.5% were between 45 and 64, and 13.8% were 65 or older. The gender ratio was slightly skewed, with 107.1 males for every 100 females.
Economic Indicators
Economically, the median household income in 2000 was $38,409, while the median family income was slightly higher at $42,656. A significant gender pay gap was present, with males earning a median income of $33,125 compared to $19,688 for females. The per capita income was $19,325. Poverty rates affected 13.4% of the total population, with the highest rates found among those 65 or older (17.9%).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most recent population count for Bay Center?
According to the 2020 U.S. Census, the population of Bay Center was 253 people.
How has the population changed since 2000?
The population grew from 174 in 2000 to 276 in 2010, before declining to 253 in 2020.
What is the ethnic diversity of the area?
Bay Center is predominantly White (Non-Hispanic), but it has significant populations of Hispanic or Latino residents (17% in 2020), multiracial individuals (13.83% in 2020), and Native Americans.
What was the median age in Bay Center during the 2000 census?
The median age was 30 years.
What was the poverty rate in 2000?
Approximately 13.4% of the population lived below the poverty line, with 14.3% of those under 18 and 17.9% of those 65 or older affected.