Lynn People

It is interesting to note that while the number of available jobs in Lynn has decreased, the population has grown throughout the last two decades. According to US Census figures, the population in 2000 was 89,050. This is a 10% increase from the 1990 Census which noted a total population of 81,245.

Total Lynn Population 1960 - 2000

This recent population jump is a direct result of the recent flood of immigrants coming to Lynn, along with the growth of various indigenous ethnic groups.

• About 11% of people in the USA as a whole are foreign-born naturalized citizens or foreign-born, noncitizen residents.
• This number doubles when looking at the same statistics for the city of Lynn. In the 2000 Census, over 22% of the residents of Lynn were foreign-born.
• The city of Lynn is home for an increasing number people who are making the transition from another country.
• Lynners come from all over the world including: Cambodia, Central America, Cuba, Mexico, Dominican Republic, Greece, Haiti, Laos, Puerto Rico, Russia, Bosnia, Croatia, Poland, Brazil, Somalia, Kenya, Sudan, Egypt, Nigeria, Liberia, and Libya.

Demographic Shifts
Reports show that 66% of today's Lynn public school children are not Caucasian. The school numbers are primarily shifting due to immigrants coming into the city and the higher growth rate of minority families. Caucasian families moving out of Lynn is another factor affecting these statistics. Sadly this change mirrors the "white flight" syndrome seen in many urban areas throughout the country.

Signs of Hope
In recent years, signs are emerging offering a renewed vision for the future of Lynn. The city has become safer as crime rates have recently curved downward. Continued building renovations have improved the facilities at the three public high schools. The sounds of construction are ever present in the downtown area as new loft apartments attracting artists and professionals are built. An independent coffee shop, seasonal farmers market and Central Square block parties (third Thursday of each month) all signal a new cultural revitalization. In addition, small businesses are springing up, especially within the ethnic communities. Larger companies such as Oasis Development Enterprises and Eastern Bank are improving the city's economic forecast and creating jobs. And, the possible expansion of the blue line to Lynn would bring even more commerce to the area. The question of gentrification--and the people and services it displaces--could become an issue in coming years. But, as the people of Lynn continue to collaborate, there is the possibility for a hopeful future for all residents.