The trends tracked for this section are Population Percent Change, Median Household Income, and Poverty Rates. All of the influencing factors accounted for in past reports remain the same for this report.
Valley Benchmark Communities
Demographics
Influencing Factors
Certain cities are able to pursue a strategy of population and development growth because they are able to acquire undeveloped land. This acquisition can be done through the annexation of unincorporated land, or through developing unused land within existing city boundaries.
The extent to which a city is nationally recognized (rather than regionally) as a resort or tourism destination might impact population trends or cost of living.
Communities that offer more cultural and recreational activities, or attractions that are unique and native to that city, may see a greater number of people wishing to reside in those communities.
The economic activity in a community, measured by jobs, job growth, and average salary, impacts the resilience of a community and is tied to the fiscal health of its government.
The average home value, cost of transportation, and cost of consumer goods affect the desirability of a community for potential residents.
Services and amenities can vary across jurisdictions based on voter-approved initiatives such as arts and culture, athletics, transportation, parks, preservation, and public safety.
*Note: Valley Benchmark Communities uses the MAG annual population estimates for per capita calculations. Those estimates use the latest decennial census counts as a starting point, and include any mid-decade censuses that have been conducted, as well. Prior to the release of the Census 2020 population counts, the estimates were based on Census 2010 housing counts and occupancy information, with adjustments made to account for the special censuses some municipalities conducted in 2015. The population estimates starting in 2020 are based on Census 2020 counts. Due to changes in occupancy characteristics throughout the decade, it is common for the originally published estimate in the Census year (2020) to differ from the final Census counts. Mid-decade counts may also introduce some irregularities. For these reasons, the originally published estimates for the decade-end years may not be consistent with estimates derived after Census 2020.
