| Statistic | Van Buren | Missouri | National |
| Population | 1,241 | 6,137,428 | 328,239,523 |
| Population density (sq mi) | 621 | 90 | 91 |
| Median age | 36.1 | 38.3 | 37.7 |
| Male/Female ratio | 0.7:1 | 1.0:1 | 1.0:1 |
| Married (15yrs & older) | 54% | 57% | 55% |
| Families w/ Kids under 18 | 49% | 42% | 43% |
| Speak English | 99% | 94% | 79% |
| Speak Spanish | 0% | 3% | 13% |
Understanding the demographics of Van Buren 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 Van Buren population is 1,241, with a population density of 621 people per square mile, diverging from the national average of 91. The median age is 36.1, and 54% of individuals aged 15 or older are married, while 49% have children under 18. As far as income equality in Van Buren, 48% of households have a median income below $25,000, whereas 3% report an income exceeding $150,000, indicating a varied economic landscape within the area.
Recognizing the racial demographics and ethnicity breakdown of Van Buren is pivotal for addressing systemic inequities, championing social justice and inclusion and fostering resilient communities. In Van Buren, the racial breakdown comprises 99.8% White, 0.2% Black or African American, 0% Asian, 0% American Indian, and 0% Native Hawaiian, with 0% of the population identifying as Hispanic or Latino. 99.2% of households reported speaking English only, while 0% reported speaking Spanish only. Furthermore, 0% of residents were categorized as foreign-born.
Regions characterized by lower-than-average population density, such as Van Buren, offer a chance for a more relaxed lifestyle, deeper connection to nature, vibrant community bonds, enhanced affordability, and heightened safety, making them enticing options for those seeking refuge from the frenetic pace of urban life. These areas often boast a more budget-friendly cost of living, with housing prices typically more affordable and residents may benefit from reduced taxes, living expenses, and insurance rates. Low population density areas often exhibit lower crime rates than densely populated urban regions, fostering a greater sense of safety and security for residents and their families. The Van Buren population density is 621 people per square mile, which ranks below 50% of cities nationwide, presenting ample opportunities to enjoy these exceptional benefits.
Social Cohesion: Analyzing demographics is vital for nurturing social cohesion and fostering understanding among diverse communities. By embracing and respecting variations in Van Buren demographics, societies can advance inclusivity, diversity and social unity while combatting social inequalities and advocating for equal opportunities. Racial demographics mirror the diversity within a population and can be instrumental in cultivating inclusive and inviting communities. Embracing diversity strengthens social bonds, fosters cultural appreciation and enriches society by acknowledging the contributions of individuals from various racial and ethnic backgrounds.
Policy Planning: Demographic data and statistics play a fundamental role in informing policy and decision-making processes across government entities, organizations and businesses. Through the analysis and interpretation of Van Buren demographic data, policymakers, government officials, and organizational leaders can pinpoint areas of concern, allocate resources efficiently, and devise policies and initiatives tailored to the specific needs and preferences of distinct demographic groups. The utilization of demographics in Van Buren can be crucial in policy planning, facilitating evidence-based decision-making, identifying key priorities, forecasting future trends, monitoring policy outcomes and advancing principles of equity and inclusion. By harnessing this data effectively, policymakers can develop policies that are targeted, effective and inclusive, thus meeting the diverse needs of communities.
Urban Development: Urban planners could use Van Buren demographic data to design and create areas that accommodate the needs of residents, including housing, transportation and public services, while promoting sustainability and quality of life. Demographic shifts can contribute to gentrification and neighborhood change in urban or rural areas. As neighborhoods attract new residents with different income levels and lifestyle preferences, property values may rise, leading to displacement of long-time residents and changes in the character and identity of the neighborhood. Understanding population density, age distribution, household size and income levels helps inform decisions related to zoning, transportation infrastructure, housing development and public amenities. Lastly, using Van Buren demographics for planning and development of affordable housing can help prevent displacement.
| Race | Van Buren | Missouri | National |
| White | 99.84% | 82.53% | 73.35% |
| Black | 0.16% | 11.58% | 12.63% |
| Asian | 0.00% | 1.78% | 5.22% |
| American Indian | 0.00% | 0.42% | 0.82% |
| Native Hawaiian | 0.00% | 0.11% | 0.18% |
| Mixed race | 0.00% | 2.44% | 3.06% |
| Other race | 0.00% | 1.13% | 4.75% |
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