Population ages 65 and above for the United States

SPPOP65UPTOZSUSA • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

17.93

Year-over-Year Change

34.03%

Date Range

1/1/1960 - 1/1/2024

Summary

This economic trend measures the percentage of the total U.S. population aged 65 and above. It is a key demographic indicator used by economists and policymakers to analyze population aging and its economic implications.

Analysis & Context

This economic indicator provides valuable insights into current market conditions and economic trends. The data is updated regularly by the Federal Reserve and represents one of the most reliable sources for economic analysis.

Understanding this metric helps economists, policymakers, and investors make informed decisions about economic conditions and future trends. The interactive chart above allows you to explore historical patterns and identify key trends over time.

About This Dataset

The population ages 65 and above trend represents the share of the total U.S. population that has reached retirement age. This data is widely used to study the aging of the workforce, changes in consumption and savings patterns, and the long-term solvency of social insurance programs.

Methodology

The data is collected by the U.S. Census Bureau through nationwide population surveys.

Historical Context

Policymakers and market analysts monitor this trend to understand the economic and fiscal impacts of an aging population.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. population aged 65 and above reached 16.9% in 2021.
  • The 65+ population is projected to grow to 22% of the total by 2050.
  • Aging populations can strain government budgets and impact economic growth.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: This trend measures the percentage of the total U.S. population that is aged 65 and above. It is a key demographic indicator used to analyze population aging.

Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?

A: This trend is widely used by economists and policymakers to understand the economic and fiscal implications of an aging population, such as changes in workforce participation, consumption patterns, and the solvency of social insurance programs.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The data is collected by the U.S. Census Bureau through nationwide population surveys.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: Policymakers and market analysts monitor this trend to assess the long-term economic and fiscal impacts of population aging, which can inform decisions on social programs, retirement policies, and economic growth strategies.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The data is updated annually by the U.S. Census Bureau, with some delays in reporting. There may be limitations in accurately capturing all population changes, especially in rapidly aging regions.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Population ages 65 and above for the United States (SPPOP65UPTOZSUSA), retrieved from FRED.