| Statistic | Bedford | Indiana | National |
| Population | 13,246 | 6,732,219 | 328,239,523 |
| Population density (sq mi) | 1,085 | 188 | 91 |
| Median age | 43.3 | 37.4 | 37.7 |
| Male/Female ratio | 0.9:1 | 1.0:1 | 1.0:1 |
| Married (15yrs & older) | 57% | 56% | 55% |
| Families w/ Kids under 18 | 41% | 43% | 43% |
| Speak English | 98% | 92% | 79% |
| Speak Spanish | 1% | 5% | 13% |
Understanding the demographics of Bedford 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 Bedford population is 13,246, with a population density of 1,085 people per square mile, diverging from the national average of 91. The median age is 43.3, and 57% of individuals aged 15 or older are married, while 41% have children under 18. As far as income equality in Bedford, 28% of households have a median income below $25,000, whereas 6% report an income exceeding $150,000, indicating a varied economic landscape within the area.
The 5 largest ethnic groups in Bedford are 94.3% White, 0.4% Black or African American, 1.1% Asian, 0.5% American Indian and 0.1% Native Hawaiian, with 2.3% of the population identifying as Hispanic or Latino. Of note, 97.9% of households reported speaking English only, while 1% reported speaking Spanish only. Additionally, 2.2% of residents were classified as foreign-born. The Bedford racial demographics and ethnicity breakdown are essential for comprehending and addressing systemic inequities, advancing social justice and inclusion and cultivating resilient communities.
Bedford could serve as a prime example of how areas with higher-than-average population density can champion environmental sustainability by reducing per capita energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions and land use. Embracing compact urban development, these densely populated areas promote energy-efficient buildings and encourages walking, cycling and public transit use, fostering sustainable lifestyles and minimizing environmental impact. Moreover, densely populated regions are renowned for their vibrant social and cultural scenes, driven by a diverse population that organizes an array of cultural events, festivals and community activities. This cultural diversity ignites creativity, innovation and cross-cultural exchange, enriching the social fabric of the community. The Bedford population density is 1,085, surpassing the national average of 91 per square miles, positioning itself to capitalize on the advantages of dense urban living.
Education Allocation: Bedford demographics can play a pivotal role in guiding education planning, offering insights into student demographics, school enrollment patterns, and educational requirements. This data aids schools and policymakers in resource allocation and the development of effective educational programs. It serves as a critical tool for identifying disparities in educational access and outcomes among diverse demographic groups, such as racial and ethnic minorities, socio-economic status, and students with disabilities. Through the disaggregation of data by demographic factors, education planners can pinpoint areas of inequity and implement targeted interventions to enhance access, support, and outcomes for marginalized students. Ultimately, Bedford demographic data is indispensable in education for advancing equity, fostering student achievement, and cultivating inclusive learning environments tailored to the needs of all students.
Healthcare Planning: By analyzing the Bedford demographic data, it can potentially inform healthcare planning and delivery by identifying population health needs, disparities, and risk factors. Understanding demographic trends helps healthcare providers and policymakers allocate resources, develop prevention and intervention programs, and address health inequities within communities. By leveraging demographic data, healthcare providers and policymakers can work towards achieving equitable, accessible, and high-quality healthcare for all individuals and communities. This proactive approach to healthcare planning ensures that interventions are targeted, resources are allocated efficiently, and healthcare services are tailored to meet the diverse needs of populations.
Urban Development: Bedford demographic statistics are invaluable for urban planners in designing and developing areas that cater to residents' needs, encompassing housing, transportation, and public services, all while fostering sustainability and enhancing quality of life. Shifts in demographics can influence gentrification and neighborhood transformation, whether in urban or rural settings. As neighborhoods attract new residents with varying income levels and lifestyle preferences, property values may increase, potentially displacing long-term residents and altering the neighborhood's character. Analyzing population density, age distribution, household size, and income levels is crucial for guiding decisions regarding zoning, transportation infrastructure, housing expansion and public amenities. Utilizing Bedford demographic data in planning and executing affordable housing initiatives can serve as a preventive measure against displacement.
| Race | Bedford | Indiana | National |
| White | 94.25% | 83.99% | 73.35% |
| Black | 0.44% | 9.23% | 12.63% |
| Asian | 1.12% | 1.98% | 5.22% |
| American Indian | 0.45% | 0.24% | 0.82% |
| Native Hawaiian | 0.05% | 0.04% | 0.18% |
| Mixed race | 3.58% | 2.22% | 3.06% |
| Other race | 0.10% | 2.30% | 4.75% |
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