Demographics Shift

New Hampshire's median age increased from 37 to 41 over the past decade.

According to news reports detailing Census Bureau figures:

With the exception of 20- to 24-year-olds, all age groups under 45 lost population during that time, while older age groups saw gains, with most of that increase reflecting aging baby boomers rather than a large increase in the number of elderly residents. For example, the number of residents ages 60 to 64 increased 75 percent, while those over 65 increased by 20 percent.

The state’s low cost-of-living may be attracting many retirees.

The Governor’s Task Force for the Recruitment and Retention of a Young Workers issued a report in 2009 which made several recommendations related to attracting and retaining younger workers. Some of the recommendations include:

• increase school-to-work internships
• encourage use of apprenticeship programs
• reintroduce commuter rail
• give young workers a Retention Bonus Package
• improve child care options for parents

The report led to the development of www.stayworkplay.org - a website that includes "content and link geared to serve young workers and others considering staying or moving to NH, or looking for a centralized resource about activities, events and opportunities of interest to them."

Do you think New Hampshire’s aging population will negatively or positively impact the state’s future?