El Dorado Demographics: Population Trends and Community Profile
Analyzing the demographic evolution of El Dorado reveals a city that has experienced significant growth cycles followed by a gradual period of decline. From its early days as a small settlement to its peak in the mid-20th century, the city's population shifts reflect broader economic and social changes within the region.
Key Facts
- 2020 Population: 17,756 residents.
- Population Peak: Reached 25,292 in 1960.
- Racial Majority: Black or African American (Non-Hispanic) at 50.85% as of 2020.
- Median Age: 39.1 years (2020 Census).
- Economic Status: Median household income of $41,831 with a 22.6% poverty rate.
- Urbanization: 97.5% of the population resides in urban areas.
Population Growth and Historical Trends
El Dorado's population history is marked by dramatic surges. Between 1890 and 1930, the city saw explosive growth, most notably between 1920 and 1930 when the population jumped from 3,887 to 16,421—a 322.5% increase. The city reached its historical peak in 1960 with 25,292 residents.
Since 1970, however, the city has entered a steady decline. By the 2020 census, the population had fallen to 17,756, and estimates for 2025 suggest a further decrease to approximately 16,609 residents.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Population History Summary
| Census Year | Population | Percentage Change (%) |
|---|---|---|
| 1880 | 443 | — |
| 1900 | 1,857 | 308.1% |
| 1930 | 16,421 | 322.5% |
| 1960 | 25,292 | 9.6% |
| 2000 | 21,530 | -7.0% |
| 2020 | 17,756 | -6.0% |
| 2025 (est.) | 16,609 | -6.5% |
Racial and Ethnic Composition
The ethnic makeup of El Dorado has shifted over the last two decades. The Non-Hispanic Black or African American population has grown as a percentage of the total, reaching 50.85% in 2020. Conversely, the Non-Hispanic White population has decreased from 53.14% in 2000 to 38.68% in 2020.
Other notable trends include a steady increase in the Hispanic or Latino population, which rose from 1.04% in 2000 to 5.73% in 2020, and a rise in residents identifying as mixed-race or multiracial.
Community Structure and Housing
As of 2020, El Dorado's population density stood at 1,096 people per square mile. The city consists of 7,375 households and 4,466 families. A significant portion of the community lives in non-traditional family structures; 39.2% of households are headed by a female with no spouse or partner present, while 21.5% are headed by a male with no spouse or partner present.
Housing availability shows a notable gap between ownership and rentals. Out of 8,510 total housing units, 13.3% were vacant. The rental vacancy rate was significantly higher at 14.2%, compared to a homeowner vacancy rate of only 2.1%.
Economic Indicators
Economic data from the 2020 census indicates a median household income of $41,831 and a per capita income of $24,081. Despite these figures, economic hardship remains a challenge, with 22.6% of the population living below the poverty line.
Comparing this to 2010 data, the median household income has seen an increase from $27,045. However, poverty rates have remained persistent, with 24.6% of the population below the poverty line in 2010, including a high rate of 36.3% among those under the age of 18.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current population trend in El Dorado?
El Dorado is currently experiencing a population decline. After peaking in 1960, the population has steadily decreased, falling to 17,756 in 2020 and projected to drop to 16,609 by 2025.
What is the racial makeup of the city?
As of the 2020 census, the largest racial group is Non-Hispanic Black or African American at 50.85%, followed by Non-Hispanic White at 38.68% and Hispanic or Latino residents at 5.73%.
What is the median age of El Dorado residents?
The median age was 39.1 years according to the 2020 census, with 17.9% of the population aged 65 or older.
How is the housing market distributed in El Dorado?
There are 8,510 housing units with a total vacancy rate of 13.3%. Rental vacancies are much more common (14.2%) than homeowner vacancies (2.1%).
What are the primary economic challenges in the city?
The primary challenge is poverty, which affected 22.6% of the population in 2020. Historically, children have been particularly vulnerable, with 36.3% of those under 18 living below the poverty line in 2010.