The Rising Tide of American Centenarians
Between 2010 and 2020, the number of Americans aged 100 or older grew from 53,364 to 80,139, a remarkable 50% increase according to the U.S. Census Bureau. While still a tiny fraction of the total population, this group—known as centenarians—is expanding rapidly. Recent estimates from sources citing Census Bureau figures place the number around 101,000 in 2024, with projections suggesting this number could quadruple to over 400,000 by 2054. This upward trajectory reflects major improvements in healthcare and public health over the last century.
Where America's Centenarians Live
While centenarians live across all 50 states, certain regions and states have a higher concentration. The Census Bureau's 2020 report revealed that the Northeast region, for instance, had a higher proportion of centenarians relative to its population than the national average. Hawaii also stands out, with the highest proportion of centenarians per capita in 2020. States with larger, more established populations, like California, New York, and Florida, naturally have the highest raw number of centenarians, but regional variations in prevalence offer insight into different health and social factors.
A Look at the Demographics
The centenarian population exhibits specific demographic trends that are evolving over time. In 2020, women constituted the vast majority, accounting for 78.8% of centenarians. However, men are catching up, with the male centenarian population growing at a much faster rate (85.3%) between 2010 and 2020 compared to their female counterparts (42.9%). The racial and ethnic makeup of the group is also slowly diversifying. While the population remains predominantly White (77% in 2024), shares of Hispanic and Black centenarians are projected to increase by 2054. Living arrangements also differ by gender; in 2020, female centenarians were twice as likely to live in nursing homes as male centenarians.
Why Are More People Reaching 100?
The increasing number of Americans living to 100 is not a single phenomenon but the result of decades of progress. Several key factors are at play:
- Medical Advances: Improved treatments for chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer have extended life expectancy, especially for older adults.
- Public Health Improvements: Better sanitation, nutrition, and vaccination programs early in the 20th century allowed more people to survive to older ages.
- Lifestyle Factors: Many centenarian studies suggest a combination of healthy lifestyle choices, positive outlook, and strong social connections contribute to extreme longevity.
- Genetics: While not the only factor, genetic predispositions are believed to play a significant role in helping some individuals live to exceptionally old ages.
Centenarians, Supercentenarians, and the Long-Lived
Within the centenarian population, there are even more exclusive subgroups. A 'supercentenarian' is a person who has reached the age of 110 or older. This group is incredibly rare, with a mortality rate that plateaus at very old ages. Researchers study these individuals to better understand the mechanisms of exceptional longevity. While the number of supercentenarians is tiny, their existence suggests that the human lifespan is not a hard-and-fast limit for everyone.
Table: US Centenarian Population Over Time
| Year | Source | Estimated Centenarians |
|---|---|---|
| 1950 | Census Bureau / Pew Research | ~2,300 |
| 2010 | U.S. Census Bureau | 53,364 |
| 2020 | U.S. Census Bureau | 80,139 |
| 2024 | Pew Research / Census Bureau | ~101,000 |
| 2054 (Projected) | Pew Research / Census Bureau | ~422,000 |
Looking Ahead: The Future of Exceptional Longevity
The continued growth of the centenarian population presents both opportunities and challenges for society. On one hand, it's a testament to progress in health and well-being. On the other, it increases demand for healthcare services and long-term care, shifting family dynamics and creating new economic pressures. Understanding the demographics and health of this exceptional group is crucial for shaping public policy and advancing medical research. As more baby boomers reach their later years, the number of centenarians will continue its steep climb, making longevity a mainstream topic of conversation and study.
For more detailed information, the U.S. Census Bureau's report 'Centenarians: 2020' offers a comprehensive look at the population and its characteristics.
Conclusion
The number of US residents over 100 years old is steadily rising, a trend fueled by medical advancements, improved public health, and lifestyle factors. While still a small part of the population, centenarians offer a unique insight into human longevity. The demographic shifts within this group—including gender and racial makeup—are also evolving. These long-term trends have significant implications for healthcare, economics, and social structures, prompting important conversations about how society supports and adapts to an increasingly long-lived population.
