American Indian population change in Arizona: an analysis of recent census data
Winchell, D.G.
Journal of the Arizona Nevada Academy of Science 21(1): 45-51
1986
DOI: 10.2307/40026007Document Number: 402251
Arizona's American Indian population has increased steadily since 1900, with the most rapid growth in the past decade. The distribution of American Indians throughout the state is also changing. Data from the US Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census demonstrate rapid growth and a complex pattern of rural and urban, on-reservation and off-reservation residential preferences among the state's Indian residents. Rapid population growth is occurring in both urban and rural areas. The most rapid growth is in urban fringe areas, small towns and villages, both on and off reservations. Most notable in these growth areas are reservation communities, now identified as Census Designated Places, which have majority Indian populations. Also important is the growing proportion of urban Indians, many of whom come to Arizona's town and cities with special needs for community and social services. Great diversity of residential preference among Arizona Indians is indicated by the census data, but much more detailed field research is needed to better understand Indian residential patterns and migration within the state.