| Statistic | Gaston | South Carolina | National |
| Population | 2,074 | 5,148,714 | 328,239,523 |
| Population density (sq mi) | 390 | 173 | 91 |
| Median age | 32.4 | 38.8 | 37.7 |
| Male/Female ratio | 1.0:1 | 0.9:1 | 1.0:1 |
| Married (15yrs & older) | 53% | 56% | 55% |
| Families w/ Kids under 18 | 47% | 40% | 43% |
| Speak English | 90% | 93% | 79% |
| Speak Spanish | 8% | 4% | 13% |
The demographics of Gaston offer invaluable insights into the composition, dynamics and needs of both urban and rural areas, empowering planners, developers and policymakers to foster prosperity, equity, and well-being for all residents. With a population of 2,074, Gaston exhibits a population density of 390 people per square mile, contrasting with the national average of 91. The median age stands at 32.4, with 53% of individuals aged 15 or older being married and 47% having children under 18. In terms of income equality in Gaston, 35% of households report a median income below $25,000, while 8% report an income exceeding $150,000, showcasing a diverse economic landscape.
The 5 largest ethnic groups in Gaston are 77.9% White, 12.9% Black or African American, 2.8% Asian, 0% American Indian and 0% Native Hawaiian, with 8.9% of the population identifying as Hispanic or Latino. Of note, 90% of households reported speaking English only, while 8% reported speaking Spanish only. Additionally, 5% of residents were classified as foreign-born. The Gaston racial demographics and ethnicity breakdown are essential for comprehending and addressing systemic inequities, advancing social justice and inclusion and cultivating resilient communities.
Towns, villages or even small cities with below-average population density, like Gaston, offer the expectation of a more laid-back lifestyle, deeper immersion in nature, strong community bonds, improved affordability and enhanced safety, drawing individuals seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of urban living. These regions often feature a more affordable cost of living, with housing prices typically more reasonable and residents may enjoy reduced taxes, living expenses and insurance rates. Low population density areas generally boast lower crime rates than densely populated urban areas, fostering a greater sense of safety and security for residents and their families. Gaston has a population density of 390 people per square mile, which falls below 50% of cities nationwide, positioning it to leverage these outstanding benefits.
Policy Planning: Demographic data and statistics serve as vital tools for informing policy and decision-making processes across various levels of government, as well as within organizations and businesses. Through the reporting and analysis of demographic data, policymakers, government officials, and organizational leaders can pinpoint areas of need, allocate resources efficiently, and craft tailored policies and programs to address the unique needs and priorities of different demographic groups. The utilization of demographic data in Gaston is instrumental in policy planning, facilitating resource allocation, evidence-based decision-making, priority identification, trend forecasting, policy impact assessment, and the promotion of equity and inclusion. By harnessing this data effectively, policymakers can devise targeted, impactful, and inclusive policies that cater to the diverse needs of communities.
Social Cohesion: The analysis and understanding of demographics are essential for promoting social cohesion and fostering appreciation among diverse communities. By embracing and acknowledging differences in Gaston demographics, societies can promote inclusivity, diversity and social harmony while addressing social inequalities and advocating for equal opportunities. Racial demographics can reflect the diversity within a population and are instrumental in fostering inclusive and welcoming communities. Embracing ethnic diversity strengthens social connections, promotes cultural understanding and enriches society by celebrating the contributions of individuals from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds.
Healthcare Planning: The examination of Gaston demographics can potentially inform healthcare planning and delivery by identifying population health needs, disparities and risk factors. By comprehending demographic trends, healthcare providers and policymakers can allocate resources effectively, develop prevention and intervention programs, and address health inequities within communities. Through the utilization of demographic statistics, healthcare providers and policymakers aim to achieve 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 the diverse needs of populations.
| Race | Gaston | South Carolina | National |
| White | 77.87% | 67.27% | 73.35% |
| Black | 12.92% | 27.35% | 12.63% |
| Asian | 2.84% | 1.42% | 5.22% |
| American Indian | 0.00% | 0.32% | 0.82% |
| Native Hawaiian | 0.00% | 0.06% | 0.18% |
| Mixed race | 2.56% | 2.07% | 3.06% |
| Other race | 3.81% | 1.51% | 4.75% |
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