| Statistic | Hershey | Pennsylvania | National |
| Population | 14,941 | 12,801,989 | 328,239,523 |
| Population density (sq mi) | 1,045 | 287 | 91 |
| Median age | 46.5 | 40.6 | 37.7 |
| Male/Female ratio | 1.0:1 | 1.0:1 | 1.0:1 |
| Married (15yrs & older) | 59% | 56% | 55% |
| Families w/ Kids under 18 | 37% | 40% | 43% |
| Speak English | 82% | 89% | 79% |
| Speak Spanish | 11% | 5% | 13% |
The demographics of Hershey 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 14,941, Hershey exhibits a population density of 1,045 people per square mile, contrasting with the national average of 91. The median age stands at 46.5, with 59% of individuals aged 15 or older being married and 37% having children under 18. In terms of income equality in Hershey, 13% of households report a median income below $25,000, while 26% report an income exceeding $150,000, showcasing a diverse economic landscape.
The Hershey racial demographics and ethnicity breakdown could be indispensable tools for recognizing and rectifying systemic inequities, fostering social justice and inclusion and cultivating resilient communities. In Hershey, the racial breakdown reveals 77.3% White, 2.4% Black or African American, 5.4% Asian, 0.1% American Indian and 0% Native Hawaiian, with 10.9% of the population identifying as Hispanic or Latino. Of all households, 82% reported speaking English only, while 10.8% reported speaking Spanish only. Moreover, 12.6% of residents were classified as foreign-born.
Hershey has a population density that is well above-average, which plays a pivotal role in promoting environmental sustainability by reducing per capita energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions and land use. Its compact urban development encourages energy-efficient buildings, active transportation modes like walking and cycling and the utilization of public transit, fostering sustainable lifestyles and mitigating environmental impact. Additionally, the area's dense population contributes to a vibrant social and cultural scene, featuring a diverse array of cultural events, festivals and community activities. This cultural diversity fuels creativity, innovation and cross-cultural exchange, enhancing the community's social fabric. Hershey has a population density of 1,045 people per square mile, exceeding the national average of 91 and positions itself in a good spot to reap the benefits of densely populated areas.
Education Allocation: Utilizing census data like Hershey demographics can be useful in guiding education planning, as it helps identify student demographics, school enrollment trends and educational needs. This data assists schools and policymakers in allocating resources and devising effective educational programs. It serves as a vital tool for recognizing disparities in educational access and outcomes among various 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 enhance access, support and outcomes for marginalized students. In essence, Hershey demographic statistics can play an indispensable role in education by promoting equity, bolstering student success and cultivating inclusive learning environments tailored to meet the needs of all students.
Healthcare Planning: By analyzing the Hershey 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: By leveraging demographic data in Hershey, urban planners can tailor areas to meet the needs of any resident across housing, transportation and public services, all while fostering sustainability and elevating quality of life. Demographic changes can fuel gentrification and neighborhood transformation, whether in urban or rural settings. As neighborhoods attract newcomers with varying income levels and lifestyle preferences, property values may appreciate, potentially displacing established residents and reshaping the neighborhood's fabric. A nuanced understanding of population density, age distribution, household size and income levels is pivotal for guiding decisions on zoning, transportation infrastructure, housing development and public amenities. Utilizing the demographic data in planning and implementing affordable housing initiatives can help mitigate displacement risks and promote inclusive communities.
| Race | Hershey | Pennsylvania | National |
| White | 77.29% | 81.37% | 73.35% |
| Black | 2.43% | 11.03% | 12.63% |
| Asian | 5.39% | 3.14% | 5.22% |
| American Indian | 0.06% | 0.20% | 0.82% |
| Native Hawaiian | 0.00% | 0.03% | 0.18% |
| Mixed race | 1.81% | 2.24% | 3.06% |
| Other race | 13.02% | 1.98% | 4.75% |
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