Editing Claremont, Minnesota (section)

==People==

===Demographics===

Claremont, Minnesota has experienced a fluctuating population over the past 100 years, showing periods of growth and decline, typical of many rural Midwestern towns. The population peaked in 2000 at 620 residents, but since then, it has seen a gradual decline, reaching 513 in 2020. The town’s demographic trends reflect broader shifts in rural America, including an aging population and a growing number of non-family and single-person households. Additionally, Claremont has seen an increase in racial diversity, particularly among Hispanic or Latino residents, although it remains predominantly White.

====Census Trends over the Last 100 Years====
{{US Census population
|1880=269
|1900=317
|1910=275
|1920=334
|1930=373
|1940=398
|1950=426
|1960=466
|1970=520
|1980=591
|1990=530
|2000=620
|2010=548
|2020=513
|footnote=U.S. Decennial Census<ref name="DecennialCensus">{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/decennial-census.html|title=Census of Population and Housing|publisher=Census.gov|accessdate=November 9, 2024}}</ref>
}}

Claremont’s population growth was strongest in the mid-20th century, especially from the 1940s to 1970s. Since 2000, the town has seen a slight population decrease, mirroring the trend of population decline in many rural communities across the United States.<ref name="DecennialCensus">{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/decennial-census.html|title=Census of Population and Housing|publisher=Census.gov|accessdate=November 9, 2024}}</ref>

====2020 Census====
The most recent U.S. Census data from 2020 reported the following for Claremont:

* '''Total population''': 513
* '''Number of households''': 218
* '''Number of families''': 126
* '''Population density''': 476.32 people per square mile
* '''Housing units''': 252 with an average density of 233.33 per square mile

The racial composition of the city was as follows:
* '''White''': 91.8%
* '''African American''': 0.6%
* '''Asian''': 0.8%
* '''Other races''': 5.4%
* '''Two or more races''': 1.4%
* '''Hispanic or Latino''' (of any race): 14.2%

====Household Composition====
* '''34.9%''' of households had children under 18
* '''39.4%''' were married couples living together
* '''11.5%''' had a female householder with no husband present
* '''6.0%''' had a male householder with no wife present
* '''42.2%''' were non-families
* '''33.9%''' of households consisted of individuals, with 9.2% having someone 65 or older living alone

The '''average household size''' was 2.35, and the '''average family size''' was 3.05.

====Age Distribution====
The median age of Claremont’s population in 2020 was '''34.8 years'''. Age distribution included:
* '''28.5%''' under 18
* '''4.2%''' aged 18–24
* '''31.0%''' aged 25–44
* '''25.4%''' aged 45–64
* '''10.9%''' aged 65 or older

The gender composition of the city was '''54.7% male''' and '''45.3% female'''.<ref>{{cite web|title=City Census Populations 2020|url=https://greatermncities.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/City-Census-Populations-2020.pdf|publisher=League of Minnesota Cities|accessdate=November 9, 2024}}</ref>

====Birth and Death Rates====
Current vital statistics on birth and death rates for Claremont are not immediately available from the census data itself, as these figures are generally provided by state and local health departments or specific studies on demographics. However, based on the trends observed over several decades, Claremont follows the general pattern of rural Minnesota, which often sees slower growth and lower birth rates, as well as an aging population leading to higher death rates.

For further detailed birth and death rate data, it is typically necessary to consult local public health records or specific demographic studies provided by agencies such as the [Minnesota Department of Health](https://www.health.state.mn.us/) or the [U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention](https://www.cdc.gov/).

====Current Population Distribution and Density====
As of the '''2020 Census''', Claremont had a population density of '''476.32 people per square mile'''. This figure is on the higher end for rural communities in southeastern Minnesota, though still much lower than urban areas. The city spans a land area of '''1.08 square miles''', and with a population of 513, it maintains a small-town atmosphere while being located near the larger urban area of Rochester. Claremont's population density is reflective of a stable, if slightly shrinking, rural community, with a balanced distribution of family and non-family households.<ref>{{cite web|title=U.S. Census website|url=https://www.census.gov|publisher=United States Census Bureau|accessdate=November 9, 2024}}</ref>

===Culture and Social Structure===

====History, Government, and Geography as They Affect the Cultural Makeup of the People====
Claremont’s culture is deeply influenced by its rural location, agricultural roots, and historical development as a small Midwestern town. The city has evolved from a primarily farming community to one that now benefits from its proximity to Rochester, which offers access to healthcare, education, and employment opportunities. These geographical and economic shifts have brought about a more diverse population and a gradual movement away from its agricultural roots, though farming remains important.

The government structure, with its Mayor-Council system, supports local community life, with a focus on maintaining a small-town atmosphere while adapting to external pressures from nearby metropolitan areas. Local events and community gatherings still play a significant role in Claremont’s social structure, as residents continue to engage in town meetings and volunteer for local causes.

The local culture has been shaped by the predominant religious beliefs in the area, with many residents belonging to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which has a significant influence on social life and values. Community traditions, such as local fairs and seasonal events, reflect the town’s agricultural heritage.

====Heroes and Leaders of Groups, with Reasons for Special Esteem====
Prominent figures in Claremont’s history include local leaders who have contributed to the city’s development and sense of community. The town has been shaped by civic-minded individuals, such as past mayors, council members, and community organizers, who have worked to improve local infrastructure, create public services, and strengthen the town’s economy. The presence of local heroes, including those involved in military service and civil rights efforts, continues to be celebrated by the community through public recognition and events.

====Ethnic Groups and Population Distribution====
Claremont has a predominantly White population, though Hispanic or Latino residents represent a notable minority. This reflects broader demographic shifts in the region, where rural areas have seen increasing diversity over the years. The 2020 census indicates that 14.2% of the population identifies as Hispanic or Latino, marking a significant, though still minority, proportion of the population. The racial makeup of the city also includes small percentages of African American and Asian residents.

Claremont remains a rural town, and the distribution of people largely reflects a smaller, agricultural-focused economy. The town's population is distributed across a wide range of ages, with a significant portion under 18, reflecting an ongoing support for young families, while the aging population is also growing.

====Majority or Minority Groups====
The majority ethnic group in Claremont is White, though there is a growing representation of Hispanic or Latino residents. As in many rural communities