Merriam, KS Demographics

Overview of Merriam Demographics

Understanding the demographics of Merriam is essential for gaining insights into the composition, dynamics and needs of any city, town or village. This knowledge empowers planners, developers and policymakers to strategize effectively, promoting prosperity, equity and well-being for all residents. The Merriam population is 11,191, with a population density of 2,592 people per square mile, diverging from the national average of 91. The median age is 39.3, and 47% of individuals aged 15 or older are married, while 41% have children under 18. As far as income equality in Merriam, 14% of households have a median income below $25,000, whereas 11% report an income exceeding $150,000, indicating a varied economic landscape within the area.

Merriam Racial Demographics & Ethnicity

Understanding the Merriam racial demographics and ethnic composition is paramount for addressing systemic inequities, advancing social justice and inclusion and fortifying communities. In Merriam, the racial breakdown indicates 85.6% White, 7.4% Black or African American, 2.5% Asian, 0.3% American Indian and 0% Native Hawaiian, with 8.4% of the population identifying as Hispanic or Latino. Notably, 92.1% of households reported speaking English only, while 3.4% reported speaking Spanish only. Additionally, 6.6% of residents were categorized as foreign-born.

Merriam Population Density

High population density areas typically offer a diverse array of amenities and services within walking distance or a short commute, enriching residents' quality of life and well-being. Accessible healthcare facilities, educational institutions, cultural venues, restaurants, shopping and public transportation options contribute to the convenience and vibrancy of these communities. The population density of of Merriam is 2,592 people per square mile, which far exceeds the national average of 91 and ranks among the most densely populated cities in the nation.

Why are Demographics Important?

Urban Development: Utilizing Merriam demographic statistics and data, urban planners can craft and develop areas that cater to local residents, encompassing housing, transportation and public services, all while emphasizing sustainability and enriching quality of life. Demographic transitions can contribute to gentrification and neighborhood evolution, whether in urban or rural environments. As neighborhoods draw in new residents with varying income levels and lifestyle preferences, property values may appreciate, potentially displacing longtime inhabitants and reshaping the neighborhood's fabric. Comprehensive insights into population density, age distribution, household size, and income levels are instrumental in guiding decisions regarding zoning, transportation infrastructure, housing expansion and public amenities. Harnessing Merriam demographic stats for planning and executing affordable housing initiatives can serve as a preventive measure against displacement.

Education Allocation: Education planning benefits significantly from Merriam demographic information, which helps identify student demographics, school enrollment trends, and educational needs. This data assists schools and policymakers in allocating resources effectively and devising impactful educational programs. It serves as a vital tool for recognizing disparities in educational access and outcomes among diverse demographic groups, including racial and ethnic minorities, socio-economic status, and students with disabilities. By disaggregating data based on demographic factors, education planners can pinpoint areas of inequity and implement targeted interventions to improve access, support, and outcomes for marginalized students. Ultimately, Merriam demographic data is essential in education for advancing equity, fostering student success, and cultivating inclusive learning environments tailored to meet the needs of all students.

Healthcare Planning: Analyzing the demographic data in Merriam has the potential to inform healthcare planning and delivery by identifying population health needs, disparities and risk factors. Healthcare providers and policymakers can allocate resources more effectively, develop prevention and intervention programs and address health inequities within communities by understanding demographic trends. Leveraging demographic statistics can enable healthcare providers and policymakers to strive for equitable, accessible and high-quality healthcare for all individuals and communities. This proactive healthcare planning approach ensures targeted interventions, efficient resource allocation and tailored healthcare services to meet diverse population needs.