US Population by Age 2025 | Demographics Stats & Facts

Population by Age in the US 2025

The demographic landscape of the United States continues to evolve dramatically as we progress through 2025, with aging population trends reshaping the nation’s age distribution in unprecedented ways. The US population by age data reveals significant shifts that reflect decades of changing birth rates, increased life expectancy, and the ongoing impact of the baby boomer generation entering retirement years. These demographic changes carry profound implications for healthcare systems, social security programs, workforce planning, and economic policy across the nation.

Understanding the current US population by age in 2025 requires examining both the numerical data and the underlying trends that drive these changes. The latest census estimates demonstrate that America is experiencing a historic demographic transition, with older adults comprising an increasingly larger share of the total population while the proportion of children and young adults continues to decline. This shift represents one of the most significant demographic transformations in American history, influencing everything from consumer markets to political representation and public policy priorities.

Key Stats & Facts about US Population by Age in 2025

Data Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Vintage 2024 Population Estimates, June 2025

The data presented in this table reveals striking demographic patterns that define the US population by age in 2025. The 61.2 million Americans aged 65 and older represent a historic milestone, comprising 18.0% of the total population compared to just 12.4% in 2004. This dramatic increase reflects the continued aging of the baby boomer generation and improved life expectancy rates across all demographic groups. Meanwhile, the 73.1 million children under age 18 represent 21.5% of the population, down from 25.0% two decades ago, highlighting declining birth rates and changing family structures.

The working-age population of 205.7 million adults between 18 and 64 continues to represent the largest segment at 60.5% of the total population, though this group experienced only 1.4% growth compared to the 13.0% growth among older adults from 2020 to 2024. The median age of 39.1 years reflects this aging trend, with significant regional variations across metropolitan areas. The fact that 11 states now have more older adults than children, compared to just 3 states in 2020, demonstrates the rapid pace of demographic change occurring across the nation.

US Population by Age 2025

Data Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Vintage 2024 Population Estimates

The age distribution trends in the US 2025 reveal a complex demographic tapestry that reflects multiple generational cohorts moving through different life stages simultaneously. The youngest age group (0-4 years) continues to shrink, representing only 5.8% of the population with 19.8 million children, reflecting sustained low birth rates that have characterized American demographics for over a decade. This decline of 0.5% from the previous year signals ongoing challenges in maintaining population replacement levels without immigration.

The school-age population (5-17 years) of 53.3 million represents 15.7% of Americans, showing a slight decline that impacts educational planning and resource allocation across the nation. Conversely, the prime working-age groups show mixed patterns, with ages 25-44 experiencing 0.8% growth to reach 88.9 million people (26.2% of the population), while the 45-64 age group remains stable at 86.6 million (25.4%). The most dramatic growth occurs in the senior categories, with ages 65-84 growing by 2.8% and the 85+ population expanding by an remarkable 4.2%, reaching 13.4 million people who represent 3.9% of all Americans.

Senior Population Growth in the US 2025

Data Source: U.S. Census Bureau Population Projections, 2025

The senior population growth in the US 2025 represents one of the most significant demographic shifts in American history, with implications extending far beyond simple population counts. The 65-69 age group of 18.5 million people continues to swell as baby boomers born in the late 1950s reach traditional retirement age, growing at 1.8% annually. This cohort represents the largest segment of the senior population and drives much of the growth in Medicare enrollment and Social Security benefits distribution.

The 70-74 age bracket shows even more dramatic expansion at 3.2% annual growth, reaching 15.2 million Americans who often represent the most active and healthiest segment of the senior population. The 75+ age groups demonstrate the most substantial growth rates, with the 75-79 cohort expanding by 4.1% to 9.8 million people, while the 85-89 group grows at 3.8% to 7.8 million. Most remarkably, the 90+ population continues its rapid expansion at 4.8% annually, reaching 5.6 million Americans and reflecting unprecedented longevity improvements in healthcare and living conditions.

Working Age Population Distribution in the US 2025

Data Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Current Population Survey 2025

The working age population distribution in the US 2025 reveals critical insights about America’s economic engine and workforce capacity. The 18-24 age group of 30.2 million represents the entry point into the labor market, with 68.5% labor force participation reflecting the combination of college attendance, early career establishment, and economic necessities. This generation faces unique challenges including student debt, housing affordability, and a competitive job market that influences their career trajectories and economic contributions.

The prime working years (25-44) encompass 88.9 million Americans divided between the 25-34 cohort of 46.8 million people with 83.2% participation rates and the 35-44 group of 42.1 million with 85.1% participation. These age segments represent the backbone of American economic productivity, contributing the majority of tax revenues, consumer spending, and innovation across industries. The 45-54 age group maintains high engagement at 81.7% participation among its 40.9 million members, representing senior professionals and experienced workers. The 55-64 pre-retirement group of 45.7 million shows declining participation at 67.3%, reflecting early retirement trends, disability rates, and transitional employment patterns as workers prepare for retirement.

Youth and Child Population Trends in the US 2025

Data Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Annual Population Estimates 2025

The youth and child population trends in the US 2025 paint a concerning picture of demographic decline that has significant implications for future workforce development, educational systems, and economic growth. The youngest cohort (ages 0-2) of 11.4 million children represents the continuation of historically low birth rates, with a 1.2% annual decline that reflects multiple factors including delayed childbearing, economic uncertainty, childcare costs, and changing family preferences among younger adults.

The preschool age group (3-5 years) totaling 8.4 million shows a 0.8% decline, indicating that low birth rates have persisted over multiple years rather than representing a temporary phenomenon. The elementary school age population (6-11 years) of 24.1 million demonstrates a smaller 0.3% decline, while the teenage cohort (12-17 years) of 29.2 million actually shows slight growth at 0.2%, representing the last echo of higher birth rates from the mid-2000s. Regional distribution patterns show the South maintaining the highest concentrations of youth populations at 36-38% across all age groups, followed by the West at 22-26%, reflecting ongoing migration patterns and regional fertility differences.

State-by-State Age Demographics in the US 2025

Data Source: U.S. Census Bureau, State Population Characteristics 2025

The state-by-state age demographics in the US 2025 reveal dramatic regional variations that reflect migration patterns, economic opportunities, and lifestyle preferences across different parts of the country. The youngest states including Utah, Texas, Alaska, and several others maintain median ages between 32.1 and 36.8 years, supported by higher birth rates, younger migration patterns, and growing economic opportunities. These states typically show 65+ population shares ranging from 12.5% to 15.2%, well below the national average.

The middle-aged states represent the largest category with 29 states falling into the median age range of 37.2 to 41.5 years, closely clustering around the national median. These states typically have senior population shares between 15.8% and 19.3%, reflecting more balanced demographic distributions. The oldest states, now numbering 11 compared to just 3 in 2020, show median ages ranging from 42.1 to 48.9 years with senior population shares between 20.1% and 24.7%. Maine leads with the highest median age at 48.9 years, followed by Vermont, Florida, and New Hampshire, all popular retirement destinations or rural states experiencing youth out-migration.

Metropolitan Area Age Patterns in the US 2025

Data Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Metropolitan Statistical Area Demographics 2025

The metropolitan area age patterns in the US 2025 demonstrate how urbanization and regional economic factors create distinct demographic clusters across the nation’s 387 metropolitan statistical areas. The 95 young metro areas typically center around major universities, technology hubs, or rapidly growing economic centers, maintaining median ages between 28.3 and 35.7 years with senior population shares ranging from 8.2% to 14.1%. These areas attract young professionals, students, and families seeking economic opportunities and urban amenities.

The 180 balanced metro areas represent the demographic middle ground with median ages between 36.1 and 42.8 years and senior populations comprising 14.5% to 18.9% of residents. These metropolitan areas typically feature diverse economies, established infrastructure, and mixed population flows that maintain relatively stable age distributions. The 112 aging metro areas, representing nearly 30% of all metros, show median ages ranging from 43.2 to 68.1 years with senior population shares between 19.3% and 31.4%. Many of these areas are located in Florida and Arizona, popular retirement destinations, or in rust belt regions experiencing youth out-migration and economic transitions.

Rural vs Urban Age Distribution in the US 2025

Data Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Urban-Rural Population Classification 2025

The rural vs urban age distribution in the US 2025 highlights one of the most significant demographic divides in contemporary America. Urban areas, home to 82.8% of the population, maintain a younger demographic profile with a median age of 37.9 years, reflecting the continued attraction of cities and suburbs for young adults, families, and immigrants. The urban under-18 population comprises 22.1% of residents, while seniors aged 65+ represent 17.2%, both closely aligned with national averages.

Rural areas, encompassing 17.2% of Americans, show dramatically different age patterns with a median age of 43.8 years, nearly 6 years older than urban areas. This age gap reflects decades of youth out-migration as young people leave rural communities for educational and employment opportunities in metropolitan areas. Rural children under 18 represent only 19.7% of the population, while seniors comprise 21.3%, creating what demographers call “aging in place” communities where older residents remain while younger generations depart. This pattern has profound implications for rural healthcare, economic development, and community sustainability.

US Population by Age Historical Trends (2015-2025) in the US 2025

Data Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Historical Population Estimates 2015-2025

The US population by age historical trends from 2015-2025 reveal the most dramatic demographic shift in American history, with the senior population experiencing unprecedented growth while the youth population entered decline. Over this 10-year period, the 65+ age group expanded by an remarkable 28.0%, adding 13.4 million people to reach 61.2 million by 2025. This represents the largest numerical and proportional increase of any age segment, driven primarily by baby boomers transitioning from the workforce into retirement years.

The working-age population (18-64) showed moderate growth of 4.0%, adding 7.9 million people to reach 205.7 million, but this growth rate significantly lagged behind the senior population expansion. Most concerning, the youth population under 18 actually declined by 1.1%, losing 0.8 million young Americans over the decade. The national median age increased by 1.5 years from 37.6 to 39.1 years, representing one of the fastest aging trends in recorded American demographic history. These patterns established between 2015-2025 fundamentally altered the nation’s age structure and created lasting implications for economic policy, healthcare planning, and social services.

US Population by Age and Race Demographics in the US 2025

Data Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Population Estimates by Race and Hispanic Origin 2025

The US population by age and race demographics in 2025 demonstrates striking differences in age structure across racial and ethnic groups that reflect varying immigration patterns, birth rates, and historical demographic trends. The White non-Hispanic population shows the oldest age profile with a median age of 44.2 years and 25.5% of the population aged 65 and older, reflecting decades of below-replacement fertility and the aging of this demographic group. Only 15.8% of White non-Hispanic Americans are under 18, indicating continued population aging within this largest racial group.

The Hispanic/Latino population presents the youngest demographic profile with a median age of just 30.1 years and 28.4% under age 18, driven by higher birth rates and continued immigration of younger adults. The Asian population maintains a median age of 38.4 years with 18.9% under 18 and 14.9% over 65, reflecting a balanced age distribution. The multiracial population shows exceptional youth with 32.1% under 18 and a median age of 28.6 years, representing the fastest-growing and youngest demographic segment. These racial and ethnic age differences create diverse community needs, educational requirements, and economic opportunities across different regions of the United States.

US Population by Age and Educational Attainment in the US 2025

Data Source: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2025

The US population by age and educational attainment in 2025 reveals dramatic generational differences in educational achievement that reflect expanding access to higher education over recent decades. The youngest working adults (ages 25-34) demonstrate the highest educational attainment levels, with 41.2% holding bachelor’s degrees and 18.4% possessing graduate degrees, totaling nearly 60% with college educations. Only 7.6% of this age group lacks a high school diploma, representing the most educated generation in American history.

Educational attainment decreases progressively with age, as older cohorts had fewer educational opportunities during their formative years. The 65+ population shows only 22.1% with bachelor’s degrees and 12.8% with graduate degrees, while 22.9% never completed high school. The 45-54 age group represents a transitional generation with 32.4% holding bachelor’s degrees and 19.8% having graduate degrees. These educational differences translate directly into income disparities, career opportunities, and retirement security across age groups, with younger generations better positioned for knowledge-based economy jobs but facing higher student debt burdens.

US Population by Age and Income Levels in the US 2025

Data Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Current Population Survey Annual Social and Economic Supplement 2025

The US population by age and income levels in 2025 demonstrates the typical earnings lifecycle with peak earning years occurring during middle age before declining in retirement. The 45-54 age group shows the highest median household income at $105,200, with 29.1% earning $150,000 or more annually. The 35-44 and 45-54 age groups represent peak earning periods, with median incomes of $98,500 and $105,200 respectively, reflecting career advancement, professional experience, and prime working years.

Younger adults ages 25-34 show a median income of $72,800, with 18.4% earning under $30,000 as they establish careers and gain experience. Pre-retirement workers ages 55-64 maintain substantial earnings at a median of $89,400, though slightly below peak levels. The 65+ population experiences dramatic income reduction with a median of $52,100, reflecting transition to fixed retirement incomes, with 31.2% earning under $30,000 annually. These income patterns directly influence consumer spending, savings behavior, housing choices, and healthcare utilization across different age segments of the American population.

US Population by Age and Geographic Mobility in the US 2025

Data Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Current Population Survey Annual Social and Economic Supplement 2025

The US population by age and geographic mobility in 2025 reveals distinct migration patterns that correspond with life stage transitions and economic opportunities. The 25-34 age group demonstrates the highest mobility rates, with 24.1% having moved within the past year, including 12.4% who moved within their county, 6.8% between counties, and 4.9% between states. This peak mobility period reflects career establishment, family formation, home purchases, and pursuit of better employment opportunities among young adults.

Young adults ages 18-24 show significant mobility at 16.2% annual movement rates, often related to college attendance, military service, or entry-level job changes. Mobility decreases substantially with age, as middle-aged adults (35-54) show much lower movement rates of 13.3% and 7.7% respectively, reflecting established careers, homeownership, and family stability. Seniors aged 65+ demonstrate the lowest mobility at just 4.7%, with most moves being local rather than long-distance, often related to downsizing, health needs, or proximity to family. These mobility patterns significantly impact regional population distributions, housing markets, and local economic development across the United States.

US Population by Age and Health Insurance Coverage in the US 2025

Data Source: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey Health Insurance Coverage 2025

The US population by age and health insurance coverage in 2025 demonstrates how insurance patterns correspond with employment status, income levels, and eligibility for government programs. Young adults ages 18-25 show the most diverse insurance landscape, with 58.2% having private insurance (often through parents’ plans or entry-level jobs), 19.4% on Medicaid, and 14.8% remaining uninsured – the highest uninsured rate of any age group. This reflects the challenges young adults face transitioning from family coverage to independent insurance arrangements.

Prime working-age adults (26-54) demonstrate high private insurance rates ranging from 74.1% to 78.9%, primarily through employer-sponsored plans, with relatively low Medicaid participation and uninsured rates between 6.8% and 9.4%. Pre-Medicare adults (55-64) show slightly lower private insurance at 71.2% as some transition out of employer coverage, with increasing Medicare eligibility at 8.9%. The 65+ population presents unique coverage patterns with 98.2% enrolled in Medicare, while 23.4% maintain private insurance and 14.1% qualify for Medicaid supplementation, resulting in 35.5% having multiple coverage types to address comprehensive healthcare needs.

Oldest and Youngest States by Age Demographics in the US 2025

Data Source: U.S. Census Bureau, State Population Characteristics 2025

The oldest and youngest states by age demographics in 2025 reveal dramatic regional variations that reflect economic opportunities, lifestyle preferences, and migration patterns across America. Maine leads as the oldest state with a median age of 48.9 years and 24.7% of residents aged 65 and older, reflecting decades of youth out-migration and the appeal as a retirement destination. Vermont and New Hampshire follow closely with median ages of 46.8 and 45.2 years respectively, representing rural New England states experiencing similar demographic transitions.

Utah maintains its position as the youngest state with a median age of just 32.1 years and 28.4% of the population under 18, driven by higher birth rates associated with religious and cultural factors. Texas ranks as the second youngest large state with a median age of 33.7 years and 25.8% under 18, benefiting from robust economic growth, international immigration, and domestic migration of young families. Alaska and North Dakota round out the youngest states with median ages of 34.1 and 34.8 years, reflecting economic opportunities in energy sectors that attract younger workers. The 16-year age gap between Maine and Utah represents one of the largest demographic disparities between states in American history.

Top Metro Areas by Age Distribution in the US 2025

Data Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Metropolitan Statistical Area Demographics 2025

The top metro areas by age distribution in 2025 demonstrate extreme demographic polarization across American metropolitan regions. The Villages, Florida stands as the oldest metro area with an unprecedented median age of 68.1 years and 57.0% of residents aged 65 and older, representing one of the most age-concentrated retirement communities in the nation. Other Florida retirement metros including Punta Gorda and Homosassa Springs show similarly high concentrations of seniors, reflecting the state’s continued appeal as a retirement destination with favorable climate, tax policies, and healthcare infrastructure.

University-centered metro areas dominate the youngest demographic rankings, with Provo-Orem-Lehi, Utah leading at a median age of just 26.4 years and only 8.2% seniors, driven by Brigham Young University and a strong culture of young families. College towns like Logan, Utah-Idaho, Blacksburg-Christiansburg, Virginia (Virginia Tech), and College Station-Bryan, Texas (Texas A&M) maintain median ages in the 27-28 year range. The 41.7-year age gap between The Villages and Provo-Orem represents the most extreme demographic divide between major metro areas, illustrating how education, retirement migration, and economic specialization create vastly different community age structures across the United States.

Year-by-Year Population Age Trends (2020-2025) in the US 2025

Data Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Annual Population Estimates 2020-2025

The year-by-year population age trends from 2020-2025 reveal the consistent and accelerating demographic transformation occurring across America. The total U.S. population grew from 331.4 million to 340.0 million over this five-year period, representing 2.6% growth, while the age distribution shifted dramatically. The under-18 population actually declined from 74.2 million to 73.1 million despite overall population growth, dropping from 22.4% to 21.5% of the total population, reflecting sustained low birth rates throughout the period.

The 65+ population experienced explosive growth from 54.1 million (16.3%) in 2020 to 61.2 million (18.0%) in 2025, representing a 13.1% increase in just five years. This growth rate far exceeded the 1.3% growth in the working-age population (18-64), which increased from 203.1 million to 205.7 million but declined as a percentage share from 61.3% to 60.5%. The median age increased steadily each year, rising 0.6 years from 38.5 to 39.1 years, indicating consistent aging across the entire population. These annual trends demonstrate that demographic aging is not a future concern but an ongoing reality reshaping American society year by year.

Major Cities Age Demographics in the US 2025

Data Source: U.S. Census Bureau, City Population Characteristics 2025

The major cities age demographics in 2025 show that America’s largest urban centers maintain younger population profiles compared to national averages, driven by economic opportunities, cultural attractions, and educational institutions that draw younger residents. Dallas and San Antonio lead major cities with the youngest demographics, featuring median ages of 33.2 and 33.9 years respectively, along with high percentages of children (25.4% and 26.1% under 18). Texas cities generally show younger age patterns, reflecting rapid economic growth, job creation, and domestic migration of young families seeking affordable housing and employment opportunities.

Traditional northeastern cities like New York and Philadelphia show slightly older demographics with median ages of 37.2 and 35.8 years, though still below the national median of 39.1 years. Chicago maintains a median age of 35.9 years with 22.3% under 18, reflecting its role as a major economic and educational hub in the Midwest. California cities including Los Angeles and San Diego show median ages in the mid-to-upper 30s, balancing young professional migration with higher living costs that may discourage family formation. The senior population in major cities ranges from 10.9% in Dallas to 16.2% in Philadelphia, generally below suburban and rural concentrations as older adults often relocate to smaller communities or specialized retirement areas.

Disclaimer: This research report is compiled from publicly available sources. While reasonable efforts have been made to ensure accuracy, no representation or warranty, express or implied, is given as to the completeness or reliability of the information. We accept no liability for any errors, omissions, losses, or damages of any kind arising from the use of this report.