The Portland metro area's 65-plus population grew 10% between April 2020 and July 2023, according to a new census data analysis by The Oregonian.
š Why it matters: Portland's population is aging faster than the national average and isn't expected to hit its peak until 2050.
Local organizations that provide social services for seniors are already overwhelmed by increasing demand.
š³ State of play: Oregon has one of the lowest birth rates in the country, meaning our population, economy and workforce are entirely reliant on in-migration for growth ā although that doesn't look good either.
Stunning stat: People over 55 make up nearly 20% of Multnomah County's homeless population, per PSU estimates, a number experts anticipate will increase in the years to come due to lack of affordable housing.
