The growing share of older Americans
The aging of the U.S. population is a defining demographic shift of the 21st century. The percentage of citizens over 65 has increased, driven primarily by the aging Baby Boomer generation (born 1946-1964), lower birth rates, and increased life expectancy. The Census Bureau noted that in 2020, about one in six people were 65 and over. This demographic change impacts areas like social security, healthcare, and the workforce.
The 17.7% figure for 2023 is a notable increase from earlier decades; in 1950, only about 8% of the population was in this age group. The U.S. population age 65 and over grew significantly faster than the total population between 1920 and 2020, with the largest numeric gain in this demographic occurring between 2010 and 2020.
State-by-state variations in the older population
Older adult distribution varies by state. States attracting retirees often have a higher percentage of residents over 65, while states with younger median ages tend to have lower percentages. This variation impacts local needs for services like healthcare and housing.
In 2022, states like Maine (23%), Florida (22%), and Vermont (22%) had high proportions of residents 65 or older, while states like Utah (12.2%) had lower percentages.
Comparison of Older Population by State (2022 Data)
| Characteristic | States with Highest Percentage of 65+ Population (2022) | States with Lowest Percentage of 65+ Population (2022) |
|---|---|---|
| States | Maine, Florida, Vermont, West Virginia | Utah, Texas, Alaska |
| Approximate % | 21-23% | 12-14% |
| Factors Influencing | Retirement migration, slower population growth overall, potential slower birth rates | Younger populations, high birth rates (e.g., Utah), migration of working-age population |
| Potential Impact | Higher demand for healthcare, senior services, and specialized housing; potential strain on state budgets | Less strain on senior-focused services; potential for higher labor force participation rates |
Projections for the future of the aging US population
Experts project the aging trend to continue for decades. By 2030, all Baby Boomers will be 65 or older, with this age group estimated to make up about 20.6% of the U.S. population. By 2040, around 78.3 million Americans are expected to be 65 or older (about 22%), and by 2050, this number is projected to reach approximately 82 million (around 23%). The population aged 85 and over is also projected to more than double between 2022 and 2040. This shift necessitates consideration of programs like Social Security and Medicare, healthcare needs, and workforce composition.
The diversity and health of the older population
The older population is becoming more diverse racially and ethnically. Projections indicate a significant increase in the share of older adults from minority groups between 2022 and 2050, which affects healthcare and social service planning. While older Americans today are often healthier and more independent for longer, chronic conditions are common, and the demand for specialized care, including for Alzheimer's, is expected to rise. Economic security also varies among subgroups of older adults.
Conclusion
The percentage of US citizens over 65 has increased significantly, reaching 17.7% in 2023, and is projected to rise further due to the aging Baby Boomer generation and increased longevity. This trend varies by state and has major implications for social programs, the workforce, and healthcare. For additional information, refer to the {Link: U.S. Census Bureau website https://www.census.gov/library/publications/2023/decennial/c2020br-07.html} and resources like the {Link: ACL's 2023 Profile of Older Americans report https://acl.gov/sites/default/files/Profile%20of%20OA/ACL_ProfileOlderAmericans2023_508.pdf}.
