Gorham, ME Demographics

Overview of Gorham Demographics

Gorham demographics provide invaluable insights into the composition, dynamics and needs of urban and rural areas, enabling them to plan, develop, and govern in ways that promote prosperity, equity and well-being for all residents. The Gorham population is 7,322 and has a population density of 956 people per square mile, compared to the national average of 91. The median age of all residents is 37.1, 47% of people 15 years of age or older are married and 43% have kids under the age of 18. In Gorham, 14% of households have a median income that is below $25,000 and 32% of households report a median income above $150,000.

Gorham Racial Demographics & Ethnicity

The Gorham racial demographics and ethnicity breakdown serves as a critical tool for understanding and addressing systemic inequities, promoting social justice and inclusion and building stronger, more resilient communities. The racial breakdown in Gorham is 89.8% White, 1.9% Black or African American, 2.9% Asian, 0% American Indian and 0% Native Hawaiian - 2.1% of the population identify as Hispanic or Latino. Of all households, 93.7% reported speaking English only, while 1.3% reported speaking Spanish only. A total of 6.7% of residents were considered foreign born.

Gorham Population Density

Gorham, characterized by above-average population density, 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. The Gorham population density stands at 956, exceeding the national average, at 91 people per square mile, positioning it in a nice position to reap the benefits of densely populated areas.

Why are Demographics Important?

Social Cohesion: Analyzing demographics is vital for nurturing social cohesion and fostering understanding among diverse communities. By embracing and respecting variations in Gorham 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.

Urban Development: Urban planners can leverage demographics data in Gorham 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 Gorham demographics data into planning and implementing affordable housing initiatives can help mitigate displacement risks.

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 Gorham 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.