The Housing Affordability Index base is 100 and represents a balance point where a resident with a median household income can normally qualify to purchase a median price home. Values above 100 indicate increased affordability, while values below 100 indicate decreased affordability.

The Wealth Index is based on a number of indicators of affluence including average household income and average net worth, but it also includes the value of material possessions and resources. It represents the wealth of the area relative to the national level. Values above or below 100 represent above-average wealth or below-average wealth compared to the national level.

The Diversity Index expresses the racial and ethnic diversity of a geographic area in a single number that ranges from 0 to 100. The Diversity Index represents the likelihood that two persons, selected at random from a specific geographic area, belong to different race or ethnic groups. If an area’s entire population belongs to one race or ethnic group, then the area has zero diversity. If an area’s population is evenly divided into two or more race/ethnic groups, then the Diversity Index is 100.

These three indexes are included as a standard part of demographic data for all geographical units including Neighborhoods (Census Block Groups), populated places, counties (or county equivalent), county subdivisions, and ZIP Code Profiles.

The demographic data used on HomeTownLocator.com is produced by Esri. For additional information: Methodology Statement, 2019/2024 Esri Updated Demographics, June 2019.