| Statistic | Clayton | New Mexico | National |
| Population | 3,079 | 2,096,829 | 328,239,523 |
| Population density (sq mi) | 396 | 17 | 91 |
| Median age | 39.6 | 37.2 | 37.7 |
| Male/Female ratio | 1.2:1 | 1.0:1 | 1.0:1 |
| Married (15yrs & older) | 41% | 52% | 55% |
| Families w/ Kids under 18 | 36% | 42% | 43% |
| Speak English | 79% | 65% | 79% |
| Speak Spanish | 19% | 28% | 13% |
The demographics of Clayton 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 3,079, Clayton exhibits a population density of 396 people per square mile, contrasting with the national average of 91. The median age stands at 39.6, with 41% of individuals aged 15 or older being married and 36% having children under 18. In terms of income equality in Clayton, 44% of households report a median income below $25,000, while 7% report an income exceeding $150,000, showcasing a diverse economic landscape.
The 5 largest ethnic groups in Clayton are 80.7% White, 2% Black or African American, 0% Asian, 2.5% American Indian and 0% Native Hawaiian, with 52.4% of the population identifying as Hispanic or Latino. Of note, 78.7% of households reported speaking English only, while 19.5% reported speaking Spanish only. Additionally, 4.5% of residents were classified as foreign-born. The Clayton racial demographics and ethnicity breakdown are essential for comprehending and addressing systemic inequities, advancing social justice and inclusion and cultivating resilient communities.
Areas like Clayton, characterized by below-average population density, offer a quieter lifestyle, closer connection to nature, strong community ties, improved affordability and enhanced safety, appealing to individuals seeking a break from urban life. These regions often boast a more affordable cost of living, with housing prices typically more accessible and residents may benefit from lower taxes, living expenses and insurance rates. Low population density areas also tend to have lower crime rates compared to densely populated urban areas, contributing to a greater sense of security for residents and their families. The Clayton population density is 396 people per square mile, which ranks lower than 50% of cities nationwide, presenting ample opportunity to enjoy these advantages.
Urban Development: Urban planners can leverage demographics data in Clayton to design and develop areas that cater to residents' needs, spanning housing, transportation, and public services, while prioritizing sustainability and enhancing quality of life. Demographic changes can contribute to gentrification and neighborhood evolution, whether in urban or rural contexts. As neighborhoods attract new residents with diverse income levels and lifestyle preferences, property values may appreciate, potentially displacing longstanding residents and reshaping the neighborhood's identity. Understanding population density, age distribution, household size and income levels is essential for guiding decisions on zoning, transportation infrastructure, housing development and public amenities. Incorporating Clayton demographics data into planning and implementing affordable housing initiatives can help mitigate displacement risks.
Education Allocation: Education planning benefits significantly from Clayton 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, Clayton 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.
Social Cohesion: The reporting and analysis of demographics are essential for fostering social cohesion and understanding among diverse communities. By acknowledging and valuing differences in Clayton demographics, societies can champion inclusivity, diversity and social harmony while tackling social disparities and advocating for equal opportunities. Racial demographics showcase the varied makeup of a population and play a vital role in nurturing inclusive and hospitable communities. Embracing diversity bolsters social cohesion, enhances cultural comprehension and enriches society by honoring the contributions of individuals from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds.
| Race | Clayton | New Mexico | National |
| White | 80.68% | 73.49% | 73.35% |
| Black | 2.01% | 2.01% | 12.63% |
| Asian | 0.00% | 1.40% | 5.22% |
| American Indian | 2.53% | 9.28% | 0.82% |
| Native Hawaiian | 0.00% | 0.06% | 0.18% |
| Mixed race | 7.66% | 3.26% | 3.06% |
| Other race | 7.11% | 10.49% | 4.75% |
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