In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the latest population data for Great Barrington, revealing a steady demographic trend despite broader regional declines. The data, which includes insights from the 2020 census, indicates that while Berkshire County has seen a decrease in population, Great Barrington has maintained its numbers since 2010, contrary to earlier forecasts predicting significant declines.

The meeting highlighted the complexities of interpreting census data, particularly regarding the residency status of individuals during the pandemic. Questions arose about distinguishing between permanent residents and those who may have temporarily relocated to the area, especially as many second homeowners moved in during the COVID-19 pandemic. Officials acknowledged the challenges in accurately capturing these shifts, noting that the census was conducted during a tumultuous period, which may have affected reporting accuracy.

Further discussions included the limitations of census data, particularly at the census designated place (CDP) level, where margins of error can be substantial due to small sample sizes. The officials emphasized the importance of the American Community Survey (ACS) as a supplementary tool for understanding demographic changes, although it too has its limitations in reliability.

The meeting also addressed age demographics, revealing a concerning trend: the population of individuals aged 25 to 44 is declining in Great Barrington, which could have implications for the local economy and community vitality. The median age in the area is increasing, reflecting a broader national trend.

Additionally, the racial and ethnic composition of Great Barrington is becoming more diverse, with the Hispanic or Latino population increasing from 6% in 2010 to 9% in 2020. This shift indicates a gradual change in the community's demographic landscape.

As the town prepares for the next census in 2025, officials are considering how to account for the impacts of the pandemic on population dynamics and are committed to ensuring accurate data collection moving forward.