Demographics

Palm River experienced a 28% increase in population between 1990 and 2000. The demographic characteristics of Palm River, however, have changed only moderately between 1990 and 2000, both statistically and according to long-time residents. The major change has been an increase in the Hispanic population (@ 10%).

The Palm River Core area is approximately 3 square miles and has a population of approximately 14,000 people, and is largely low-income. The area encompasses 5 census tracts and part of a sixth. Adjusting for the sixth tract, the census tracts average some 59% of households as being low-income (under the 80% of Area median income). The census tracts also show that over 36% of households are below very-low income (50% of AMI) [2000 Census data].

Palm River is a community located in unincorporated Hillsborough County just South and East of the City of Tampa and West of Brandon. Although the Palm River is strategically located the area has no major or easily identifiable entrances or boundaries. Therefore, it’s visibility is limited and existence often goes unnoticed. In fact, the area has historically been ignored in terms of infrastructure improvements. The area has not kept up with the surrounding area's growth and the improvements are now long over due.

Palm River is a community in transition, as its residents cope with a lack of community services and pressure from new development while searching for ways to use their limited resources to improve their living, economic and social conditions.