Median Age
Definition
The age at which exactly half the population is older and half is younger. It provides a single number that summarizes the age distribution of an entire population.
Why It Matters
Median age reveals whether a population is young (growing workforce, school demand) or aging (healthcare demand, pension pressure). It affects economic growth, housing markets, and political priorities.
How It's Measured
Calculated from self-reported ages of all residents in the Census or ACS survey. The midpoint value is reported as the median age.
Current Value
US median age: approximately 38.9 years
Related Ranking
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Frequently Asked Questions
The age at which exactly half the population is older and half is younger. It provides a single number that summarizes the age distribution of an entire population.
Median age reveals whether a population is young (growing workforce, school demand) or aging (healthcare demand, pension pressure). It affects economic growth, housing markets, and political priorities.
Calculated from self-reported ages of all residents in the Census or ACS survey. The midpoint value is reported as the median age.