Exploring Senior Demographics of North Carolina
Last Updated on April 25, 2024 by Rachel
Introduction
North Carolina, a state known for its diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant communities, is home to a significant and growing senior population. As of the latest American Community Survey data in 2022, the Tar Heel State has a total population of 10,698,973, with 1,866,614 individuals aged 65 and over, constituting 17.45% of the state’s populace.
Population (Sex And Age, Race)
Sex and Age: Breaking down the senior demographic, North Carolina’s elderly population is comprised of 44.0% males and 56.0% females, with a median age of 73.1 years. This distribution showcases a slightly higher proportion of senior females, contributing to the nuanced demographic fabric of the state.
Race: The racial composition of seniors in North Carolina is predominantly one race, accounting for 96.9% of the population. Within this group, 76.4% identify as White, 16.9% as Black or African American, 0.8% as American Indian and Alaska Native, 1.7% as Asian, and 0.1% as Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander. The diversity is further evident with 3.1% identifying as two or more races, reflecting a multicultural senior community. Hispanic or Latino seniors represent 2.7% of the population, and 75.9% identify as White alone, not Hispanic or Latino.
Relationship
In households, seniors in North Carolina maintain diverse relationships, with 91.8% serving as householders or spouses. This data underscores the prevalence of familial connections, where 3.5% are parents, 3.0% are other relatives, and 1.8% are nonrelatives, including unmarried partners at 0.9%. These relationships contribute to the intricate social fabric of the senior community.
Households
Of the 1,163,567 households in North Carolina, 56.5% are family households, with 46.1% being married-couple families and 8.3% being female householders with no spouse present. Nonfamily households make up 43.5%, with 41.0% being seniors living alone. These housing dynamics reflect the various living arrangements and family structures prevalent among North Carolina’s seniors.
Marital Status
Examining marital status among seniors, 58.3% are currently married, except separated, 21.3% are widowed, 13.9% are divorced, 1.5% are separated, and 5.1% have never married. These marital status statistics provide insights into the diverse life experiences and trajectories of the senior population in the state.
Education Status
The educational attainment of seniors in North Carolina is varied, with 11.8% having less than a high school graduate, 29.0% having a high school diploma, GED, or alternative, 28.4% having some college or associate’s degree, and 30.8% having a bachelor’s degree or higher. This educational diversity speaks to the intellectual richness and lifelong learning pursuits within the senior demographic.
Responsibility For Grandchildren Under 18 Years
Within the senior population, 3.9% are living with grandchildren, and 1.4% are actively responsible for their care. This reflects the integral role that seniors play in family structures, providing support and guidance to younger generations.
Veteran Status
North Carolina has a proud tradition of military service, with 15.0% of seniors identified as civilian veterans. This statistic reflects the state’s historical commitment to the armed forces and the prevalence of a veteran community among its seniors.
Disability Status
Among the civilian noninstitutionalized population of seniors, 33.3% report having a disability, emphasizing the importance of healthcare and support systems to address the varied needs of older adults. The remaining 66.7% report no disability, showcasing the resilience and health of a significant portion of the senior population.
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Language Status
In terms of language spoken at home, 94.5% of seniors in North Carolina communicate in English only. A minority, 5.5%, speaks a language other than English, with 2.5% reporting speaking English less than “very well.” This linguistic diversity highlights the multicultural nature of North Carolina’s senior community.
Employment Status
Senior Population: The employment landscape among North Carolina seniors unveils a multifaceted scenario. Out of a senior population of 1,866,614, 17.3% are in the labor force. Within this cohort, 16.9% are employed, reflecting an active participation in the workforce, while 0.5% are unemployed. This translates to 82.7% of seniors not being in the labor force, showcasing a significant portion engaged in other pursuits during their retirement.
Income Status
Households: Examining the economic dimension, the income status of senior households in North Carolina provides valuable insights. Among the 1,163,567 households, 35.9% report earnings, with a mean income of $63,110. The reliance on Social Security income is notable, encompassing 90.2% of households, with an average income of $24,457. Supplemental Security Income supports 6.1% of households, with an average of $10,685. Cash public assistance income is reported by 1.2% of households, with an average of $3,270. Retirement income plays a significant role, supporting 58.0% of households, with an average income of $30,797. Additionally, 10.6% of households receive Food Stamp/SNAP benefits, underscoring the importance of social welfare programs in supporting senior citizens.
Poverty Status
Population for Whom Poverty Status is Determined: Understanding the economic well-being of seniors, 1,824,638 individuals in North Carolina have their poverty status determined. Within this group, 10.9% fall below 100 percent of the poverty level, 9.8% are within the 100 to 149 percent range, and a substantial 79.3% are at or above 150 percent of the poverty level. These figures shed light on the overall financial stability of the senior population.
Housing Status
Occupied Housing Units: Housing is a crucial aspect of senior life, and in North Carolina, the data indicates that out of 1,163,567 occupied housing units, 80.8% are owner-occupied, while 19.2% are renter-occupied. The average household size for owner-occupied units is 1.92, and for renter-occupied units, it is 1.56, reflecting the varied housing needs of seniors.
Selected Characteristics: Notable characteristics include 0.9% of households having no telephone service available and 0.4% having 1.01 or more occupants per room, providing insights into the technological and spatial aspects of senior living.
Owner-occupied Housing Units: Among the 940,660 owner-occupied housing units, 76.6% have monthly owner costs constituting less than 30 percent of household income, while 23.4% have costs exceeding this threshold. The median value of these properties is $252,900. For those with a mortgage, the median selected monthly owner costs are $1,248, whereas those without a mortgage have a median cost of $448.
Renter-occupied Housing Units: Within the 222,907 renter-occupied units, 46.1% have gross rent constituting less than 30 percent of household income, while 53.9% have costs exceeding this threshold. The median gross rent for these units is $888.
Conclusion
In synthesizing the comprehensive data on North Carolina’s senior population, a vivid portrait emerges. The seniors of North Carolina, constituting 17.45% of the state’s population, are characterized by diverse demographics, robust familial connections, and varied housing and economic circumstances.
While a substantial proportion of seniors are actively engaged in the workforce, a majority enjoy the fruits of their retirement, contributing to the cultural, economic, and social fabric of the state. The economic landscape showcases a reliance on Social Security and retirement income, with additional support from supplemental programs like Food Stamp/SNAP benefits.
Housing patterns underscore the choices seniors make in their living arrangements, with a significant majority opting for owner-occupied units. These homes, whether owned or rented, become the backdrop for the rich tapestry of senior life, offering spaces for familial connections, personal reflection, and community engagement.
The nuanced details of income, poverty status, and housing characteristics provide policymakers, healthcare professionals, and community leaders with valuable insights. Crafting initiatives tailored to the unique needs of North Carolina’s seniors becomes essential, ensuring a supportive and thriving environment for this vibrant demographic.
In conclusion, North Carolina’s senior statistics not only offer a statistical snapshot but also tell a story of resilience, diversity, and adaptability. As the state continues to evolve, understanding and appreciating the contributions and needs of its senior citizens will be instrumental in fostering a community that honors and enhances the golden years.