Demographic Shifts Reshape Northwest Pasadena Over Three Decades

Residents of Northwest Pasadena will receive an in-depth look at how their community has transformed demographically and economically over the past 30 years during a presentation scheduled for Tuesday’s Northwest Commission meeting.

Douglas Johnson, a consultant with National Demographics Corporation, will present “Northwest Area Demographics from 1990–2020” at the Jackie Robinson Community Center, detailing significant population shifts that have reshaped the area’s character.

According to data to be presented, Northwest Pasadena’s population peaked in 2000 at 50,073 residents before declining steadily to 44,470 by 2020. The most striking change has been a 45% decrease in children under 18 between 2000 and 2020, while the adult population has remained relatively stable.

The ethnic composition has undergone dramatic transformation, with the Latino population growing from 44% in 1990 to 56% by 2000 and holding steady since then. Meanwhile, the Black/African American community has experienced a sharp decline, dropping from 36% in 1990 to just 14% by 2020.

The data highlights the continuing evolution of Northwest Pasadena’s community composition and socioeconomic characteristics over three decades.

The presentation will also highlight educational improvements, with high school graduation rates rising from 62% to 78% and college graduation rates increasing from 20% to 35% during the study period.

Despite these gains, occupational disparities persist between Northwest Pasadena and the rest of the city. Only 41% of Northwest residents work in management and professional roles compared to 60% citywide, while 28% work in service occupations versus 16% citywide.

The Northwest Community Plan, established in 1985, aims to address these disparities through coordinated efforts in housing, economic development, infrastructure improvements, community services, and public safety initiatives.

Tuesday’s meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. at the Jackie Robinson Community Center, located at 1020 N. Fair Oaks Ave., and is open to the public.