Jun 30, 2025 - News
Census: Washington's youth decline, seniors rise
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Washington's older population is growing while its younger cohort is shrinking, per new census data.
Why it matters: The latest figures continue a longstanding trend of an aging America and suggest big policy and economic challenges ahead.
- More older Americans means we'll need more care workers, for instance.
By the numbers: The number of Washingtonians aged 65 and over grew 14% from 2020 to 2024, reaching 1.38 million, per the Census Bureau.
- Residents under 18 declined 2.5%, dropping to 1.66 million.
Zoom out: Nationally, the 65+ group grew 13%, while those under 18 fell 1.7%.
Stunning stat: There are now 11 states with more older adults than children, up from only three in 2020, per the bureau.