2006 State Report > Aging Trends > Trends
Aging Trends
The aging population in South Carolina is growing rapidly. The U.S. Census Bureau projects that by the year 2030, the state’s 65 and over population will be nearly double what it was in 2000. About 1.1 million people who are 65 and over are expected to live in South Carolina in 2030, compared with 485,333 people in 2000.
South Carolina 65+ Population and Population Projections: 1970-2030
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Census 1970-2000. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division, Interim State Population Projections, 2005.
In 2000, South Carolina ranked 32nd in the nation for the highest percentage of people aged 65 and older. By 2030, the state is projected to rank 15th in the nation.
South Carolina State Ranking for Highest Percentage of 65+ Population: 1990 - 2030
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Census 1990-2000. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division, Interim State Population Projections, 2005.
If these projections are correct, there will be almost as many people older than 65 as there will be children younger than 18 by 2030. This marks a major shift in population from the 2000 Census, which showed twice as many children younger than 18 as adults aged 65 and over.
South Carolina Population and Population Projections by Age Group: 2000 and 2030
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division, Interim State Population Projections, 2005.
This increase in South Carolina’s older population can be attributed to several factors, including the aging of the Baby Boomer population and South Carolina’s attractiveness as a retirement destination due to its mild climate and low cost of living. Affluent retirees will fuel the economy as they move to the state in the coming years. Our often less-wealthy indigenous population is also rapidly aging, causing a strain on state services including Medicaid. If we plan well for our future, however, we can improve the quality of life for both of these groups of seniors.
In the coming years, South Carolina will face a number of opportunities, challenges and choices associated with the growth of the aging population.