Age Distribution Across ZIP Codes

## Age Shapes Communities

The age distribution of a ZIP code determines its character: schools or senior centers, playgrounds or golf courses, pediatricians or geriatricians. Understanding age profiles is essential for businesses, healthcare providers, and planners.

## National Baseline

| Age Group | National Share |
|-----------|---------------|
| Under 18 | 22.0% |
| 18-34 | 21.8% |
| 35-54 | 25.5% |
| 55-64 | 13.0% |
| 65+ | 17.7% |
| Median age | 38.9 years |

*Source: ACS 2018-2022*

## ZIP Code Age Archetypes

Five distinct age profiles emerge across ZIP codes:

- **Retirement havens** — ZIPs in Florida (The Villages: median age 72), Arizona, and the Carolinas where 40-60% are 65+
- **College towns** — ZIPs near universities where 18-24 represents 30-50% of the population
- **Young family suburbs** — Under-18 population exceeding 30%, median age 32-36
- **Young urban** — Downtown ZIPs with high 25-34 share, low under-18
- **Balanced communities** — ZIPs near national averages across all groups

## The Aging Map

Geographic patterns of aging include:

- **Northeast** — Older on average (median 40+), except urban cores
- **Sun Belt** — Mixed: retiree magnets (high 65+) next to young-family suburbs
- **Mountain West** — Younger on average due to family migration
- **Great Plains** — Aging rural population as young people leave

## Business Implications

Age distribution drives demand for specific services:

| Age Profile | High-Demand Services |
|------------|---------------------|
| Young families | Daycare, pediatrics, family restaurants |
| College-age | Rentals, fast food, bars, fitness |
| Working-age | Professional services, home improvement |
| Retirees | Healthcare, leisure, financial planning |

## Aging and ZIP Code Change

ZIP codes age as their residents do. A suburb built in the 1960s that attracted young families now has a population skewing 60+. This demographic inertia means age profiles shift slowly but predictably over decades.