The Growing Centenarian Population in the U.S.
Centenarians, individuals who have reached or surpassed the age of 100, are no longer as rare as they once were. Historically, living to 100 was considered an exceptional feat, with the number of centenarians in the U.S. estimated at only around 2,300 in the 1950s. This population has increased dramatically since then, nearly doubling in the last two decades alone. The rise of this demographic presents a wealth of data for scientists studying the biology and genetics of longevity.
The Latest Figures: 2020 Census and Recent Projections
For the most precise historical figure, we look to the official 2020 U.S. Census, which counted a total of 80,139 centenarians residing in the country. This marked a substantial 50% increase from the 2010 Census figure of 53,364, showing a significant acceleration in the growth of this age group. More recent estimates suggest the number continues to grow. For example, a Pew Research Center analysis based on U.S. Census Bureau data estimated there were about 101,000 centenarians in early 2024, highlighting the rapid expansion of this demographic. The United Nations has even larger global and U.S. projections for 2024, at approximately 108,000 for the U.S., but these are broader estimates.
Projections for the Future
The trend of increasing longevity is expected to continue. Projections from the U.S. Census Bureau indicate the centenarian population could quadruple over the next three decades, as the large baby boomer generation reaches extreme old age. By 2054, centenarians are expected to make up 0.1% of the total U.S. population, a small but powerful demographic shift.
Demographic Breakdown of US Centenarians
Analyzing the demographic data of centenarians reveals several interesting patterns, including differences based on sex and race.
Sex Composition
One of the most persistent patterns is the overwhelming predominance of women among centenarians. In 2020, women constituted 78.8% of the centenarian population. However, recent data also points to a faster growth rate for male centenarians. Between 2010 and 2020, the number of males over 100 increased by 85.3%, compared to a 42.9% increase for females. Projections suggest this gender gap will narrow slightly in the coming decades, though women will continue to outnumber men significantly.
Racial and Ethnic Composition
While centenarians are predominantly White, the demographic is becoming more racially diverse. The 2020 Census showed a slight decline in the percentage of White centenarians compared to 2010. This reflects the broader demographic shifts in the U.S. population and improvements in health outcomes across different groups over time. Pew research data from early 2024 indicates the following composition among centenarians: 77% White, 8% Black, 7% Asian, and 6% Hispanic, with smaller proportions from other groups.
Living Arrangements
The 2020 Census also shed light on how centenarians live, challenging stereotypes. Contrary to the assumption that all centenarians reside in institutional settings, the data showed varied living situations:
- Living Alone: Nearly 34% lived alone in their households.
- Living with Others: About 37% lived with others in a household.
- Nursing Homes: Only about one-quarter of centenarians lived in nursing homes.
These patterns suggest many centenarians maintain a degree of independence or live with family, contributing to their well-being and potentially influencing their longevity.
Comparison of U.S. Centenarian Demographics (2010 vs. 2020)
| Demographic Trait | 2010 Data (Census) | 2020 Data (Census) |
|---|---|---|
| Total Number of Centenarians | 53,364 | 80,139 |
| Percent Female | 82.8% | 78.8% |
| Percent Male | 17.2% | 21.2% |
| Population Growth (vs. 2010) | - | +50% |
| Male Population Growth (vs. 2010) | - | +85.3% |
| Female Population Growth (vs. 2010) | - | +42.9% |
| % Living Alone | - | ~34% |
| % in Nursing Homes | - | ~25% |
The Science Behind Increased Longevity
Understanding the factors that enable people to live to 100 involves complex interactions between genetics, environment, and lifestyle.
The Role of Genetics
Genetics play a significant role in determining who lives to extreme old age. Studies like the New England Centenarian Study investigate the genetic markers and profiles of centenarians and their families to uncover longevity-associated genes. While genetics may set a person's potential, they don't guarantee a long life; environmental factors are still critical.
Environmental and Lifestyle Influences
Improvements in public health, medical care, and nutrition are major drivers of increasing longevity. Many people who have the genetic predisposition to live to 100 are now surviving illnesses that would have been fatal in past decades. Other contributing factors include social engagement, diet, and stress management, as highlighted by studies of so-called 'Blue Zones'—areas with unusually high concentrations of centenarians, such as Okinawa, Japan, and Loma Linda, California.
Conclusion
While a tiny fraction of the total population, the number of US citizens over 100 years old is a rapidly growing demographic. Based on the 2020 Census, the last official count showed over 80,000 centenarians. This number is projected to continue its rapid ascent in the coming decades, driven by advancements in medicine, public health, and a better understanding of the interplay between genetics and lifestyle. For those interested in deeper research, reliable data can be found from sources like the Pew Research Center.
