Texas is Young Compared to Other States but Getting Older

Texas was the second youngest state in the nation in 2024.

The median age in Texas in 2024 was 35.8, nine years younger than Maine, the oldest state in the nation, and well below the U.S. median of 39.1. Texas was second only to Utah with a median age of 32.4 in 2024.

Aging is a greater concern in certain regions of Texas

Despite an overall young state population, median age varies greatly across Texas counties. Nearly half of Texas counties are younger than the national median age of 39.1, especially in urban centers, the Permian Basin, and along the border.

In contrast, the older counties tend to concentrate in West Texas and outside of urban areas. The county with the lowest median age (Brazos County) had a median age approximately 35 years less than the oldest county (Jeff Davis County), highlighting the variation in median age across the state.  

Population Median Age in Texas Counties, 2024

Texas’ population is aging

Texas’s relatively young population means it has more room to age rapidly. The state has seen an overall increase in its older age population in the past few decades. From 2004-2024, the share of younger age groups (0–24 years old) declined considerably, while that of middle-aged groups (30–44 years old) kept relatively stable. The population is aging overall, as evidenced by the rise in older age groups (55+ years old).

Age-Sex Distribution of Population in Texas: 2004 and 2024

All older age groups have increased in population since 2010

Between 2010 and 2020, the population 65 years and older increased from 2.6M to 3.9M, a 30% increase. A closer look at age groups shows that the growth in the older age population has been largest in the 65-69 years and 70-74 years age groups. In particular, the 70-74 year age group grew 70%, more than double the percentage growth of the 80-84 year age group.

Population Size of Older Age Groups: 2010 and 2020

Counties in urban areas are aging at a faster rate.

Growth in the older age population is not occurring evenly across the state. Between 2010 and 2020, a majority of counties saw a 30% or more increase in their 65+ population. This growth was most pronounced in the state’s urban core counties. In contrast, only 24 counties saw their older age population decrease during this period.

Percent Change in the 65+ Population in Texas, 2010-2020

Texas’ workforce is carrying more seniors than ever

Dependency ratios measure the size of the dependent population (children and seniors) relative to the working age. The state dependency ratio increased from 2010 to 2024, a change driven by the faster growth of the older age population compared to the working age population.

Labor Force Participation Among Texans 65+, 2010–2024

Looking ahead at 2060, Texas will continue to age.

The 65+ group will grow fastest in the following years. Growth among those under 18 will slow and begin to decline. The working-age population will grow and maintain a stable share of the total population.

Texas Projected Population by Age, 2020 - 2060

Texas’ workforce is carrying more seniors than ever

Dependency ratios measure the size of the dependent population (children and seniors) relative to the working age. The state dependency ratio increased from 2010 to 2024, a change driven by the faster growth of the older age population compared to the working age population.

Age Dependency Ratios in Texas, 2010-2024