Age Distribution
The breakdown of a ZIP code's population by age groups, including median age and percentages in ranges such as under 18, 18-64, and 65 and older.
Age distribution data from the Census and ACS divides a ZCTA's population into standard age cohorts: under 5, 5-17, 18-24, 25-34, 35-44, 45-54, 55-64, 65-74, 75-84, and 85 and older. The median age — the point at which half the population is older and half younger — provides a single summary measure.
ZIP-level age profiles vary widely. College-town ZCTAs may have median ages in the low 20s, while retirement communities in Florida and Arizona may exceed 65. The national median age is approximately 38.9 years.
Age distribution data is critical for healthcare planning (pediatric vs. geriatric services), school enrollment projections, retail product mix decisions, senior services funding, and political campaign targeting. Combined with population projections, it helps predict future demand for age-specific services.