| Statistic | Petersburg | Illinois | National |
| Population | 2,564 | 12,671,821 | 328,239,523 |
| Population density (sq mi) | 1,641 | 228 | 91 |
| Median age | 39.8 | 37.4 | 37.7 |
| Male/Female ratio | 1.0:1 | 1.0:1 | 1.0:1 |
| Married (15yrs & older) | 57% | 55% | 55% |
| Families w/ Kids under 18 | 49% | 44% | 43% |
| Speak English | 99% | 77% | 79% |
| Speak Spanish | 0% | 13% | 13% |
The demographics of Petersburg 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 2,564, Petersburg exhibits a population density of 1,641 people per square mile, contrasting with the national average of 91. The median age stands at 39.8, with 57% of individuals aged 15 or older being married and 49% having children under 18. In terms of income equality in Petersburg, 19% of households report a median income below $25,000, while 10% report an income exceeding $150,000, showcasing a diverse economic landscape.
The Petersburg 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 Petersburg, the racial breakdown reveals 95.4% White, 0.4% Black or African American, 0.4% Asian, 0% American Indian and 0% Native Hawaiian, with 1.2% of the population identifying as Hispanic or Latino. Of all households, 98.8% reported speaking English only, while 0.5% reported speaking Spanish only. Moreover, 0.7% of residents were classified as foreign-born.
Communities such as Petersburg, with population densities higher than the average, play a significant role in promoting environmental sustainability by decreasing per capita energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions and land use. Their compact urban development encourages the adoption of energy-efficient buildings, walking, cycling, and public transportation, fostering sustainable lifestyles and minimizing environmental impact. Additionally, densely populated areas tend to cultivate vibrant social and cultural scenes, fueled by a diverse population that contributes to a myriad of cultural events, festivals and community activities. This cultural diversity sparks creativity, innovation and cross-cultural exchange, enriching the social fabric of the community. Petersburg has a population density of 1,641, surpassing the national average of 91 people per square mile, as it stands poised to reap the benefits of dense urban living.
Urban Development: Utilizing Petersburg demographic statistics and data, urban planners can craft and develop areas that cater to local residents, encompassing housing, transportation and public services, all while emphasizing sustainability and enriching quality of life. Demographic transitions can contribute to gentrification and neighborhood evolution, whether in urban or rural environments. As neighborhoods draw in new residents with varying income levels and lifestyle preferences, property values may appreciate, potentially displacing longtime inhabitants and reshaping the neighborhood's fabric. Comprehensive insights into population density, age distribution, household size, and income levels are instrumental in guiding decisions regarding zoning, transportation infrastructure, housing expansion and public amenities. Harnessing Petersburg demographic stats for planning and executing affordable housing initiatives can serve as a preventive measure against displacement.
Policy Planning: At various levels of government and within organizations and businesses, demographic data and statistics serve as essential tools for guiding policy and decision-making processes. Through the examination and interpretation of Petersburg demographic stats and data, policymakers, government officials, and organizational leaders can pinpoint areas requiring attention, allocate resources judiciously and design policies and initiatives tailored to the specific needs and preferences of distinct demographic segments. The utilization of Petersburg demographic data plays a pivotal role in policy formulation by informing resource allocation, facilitating evidence-based decision-making, identifying key priorities, predicting future trends, assessing policy effectiveness, and advancing principles of equity and inclusivity. Through effective utilization of this data, policymakers can craft policies that are targeted, efficient, and responsive to the diverse needs of communities.
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 Petersburg 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 | Petersburg | Illinois | National |
| White | 95.40% | 72.14% | 73.35% |
| Black | 0.43% | 14.30% | 12.63% |
| Asian | 0.35% | 5.10% | 5.22% |
| American Indian | 0.00% | 0.23% | 0.82% |
| Native Hawaiian | 0.00% | 0.03% | 0.18% |
| Mixed race | 3.82% | 2.34% | 3.06% |
| Other race | 0.00% | 5.86% | 4.75% |
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