It’s people – not statistics – that give a community heart. And Durango is second to none in that department. Even so, the demographics that define our town tell a more textured story than just numbers on a page.
Did you know that our population is decidedly youthful? The median age in Durango is 34.4, compared to the U.S. median age of 38 (as of 2018). Nationally, 46% of Americans are under 35 years old. In Durango, that number is 51.4%.
In the early 2000s, the 25-39 age group represented the fastest growing segment of our population. Since 2010, the rate of growth in that group alone has been three times the rate of growth in the city as a whole.
What does it mean? For one thing, the “death of the small town” news trope has been greatly exaggerated. Big cities have always been magnets for young people. Yet Durango’s strong growth in the millennial and young Generation X demographics means our region is competing with the allure of urban areas.
This youth boom in small and mid-sized cities may be a national trend. According to a report by the Brookings Institute (March, 2018), populations in rural counties are making the first comeback since 2010. While large metropolitan areas are still the fastest growing regions overall, growth rates in exurban areas are strengthening.
There’s no definitive answer why this is the case, though lifestyle, technology and entrepreneurial spirit seem to be contributing factors. Lifestyle amenities, such as community character, recreation and a less frenetic pace, appeal to a generation seeking work-life balance. Technology has made it possible to work from home and to start a business anywhere. Though most evidence attempting to explain this migration is anecdotal, the factors ring true for Durango.
There are social ramifications to this population shift. The demographics that shape Durango are crucial to understanding what makes our community tick now and what challenges and opportunities we face in the future.
This is why the 2020 census is so important. An accurate count leads to tangible outcomes for our communities, including determining our congressional representation, federal funding for local needs and accurate demographic information.
In mid-March, you will receive a postcard instructing you to complete the U.S. Census Bureau survey online. You can also respond via phone or request a paper copy via mail. It’s incredibly important to respond. Responses equal resources! Census questions can be answered and more information found at 2020Census.gov.
While 2020 census numbers won’t be finalized until 2021, the most current data available is informing our decision-making today. Here’s a current snapshot of our dynamic Durango.
In 2018, the population of Durango was 18,985. Approximately 12% of residents were 65 years and older; 23.6% were 45-64; 31.8% were 25-44; and 32.6% were 24 and under. Estimates suggest our population will reach 20,069 in 2022, which is just around the corner. The fastest growing segments are likely to be the aforementioned younger age groups and those 65 and older. The population was 81% white/Caucasian, 10% Hispanic, 6.1% Native American, and 2.9% African American, Asian and other heritages.
Household Info: As of 2018, the average Durango household size was 2.31 people. Median household income was $63,167, which is lower than the state household median income of $68,811, but higher than the U.S. median of $60,293. The median home price in Durango in 2019 was $506,625.
All of these figures influence our community. Are the anticipated growth rates sustainable? What will we need for infrastructure? Are we providing for the needs and desires of people who grew up here as well as those who have chosen to build their lives here?
These numbers also state another fact. They are empirical evidence of Durango’s appeal as both a place to start a life and a place to grow older.
Beyond percentages and spreadsheets, a community with a broad dispersal of age groups produces a more compassionate, engaged and tolerant citizenry. Our blend of lifestyles represents our distinct perspectives and values. Perhaps that’s the key to Durango’s appeal: people of different ages and backgrounds all feel at home here.
Melissa Youssef is mayor of Durango, a position rotating among members of City Council. Reach her at Melissa.Youssef@DurangoGov.org.
