U.S. Workers 65+ Surge 33% Since 2015 as Nearly 1 in 5 Hold Jobs
Updated
Updated · Fortune · May 31
U.S. Workers 65+ Surge 33% Since 2015 as Nearly 1 in 5 Hold Jobs
2 articles · Updated · Fortune · May 31
Nearly 1 in 5 Americans age 65 and older were working in 2024, making them one of the fastest-growing segments of the U.S. labor force.
More than 33% growth in employed 65-plus workers since 2015 reflects longer life expectancy, but also pressure from higher living costs, thin retirement savings, health insurance needs and caregiving duties.
A 2024 AARP survey found about 1 in 4 Americans over 50 expect never to retire, underscoring how work is increasingly a financial necessity rather than a choice.
The shift is colliding with cultural expectations: older adults are urged to stay active and productive, yet are also criticized for not stepping aside, even as work remains a key source of identity and social connection.
With younger generations' health declining, is extending working life a sustainable economic solution?
As Social Security's safety net frays, is the American dream of a comfortable retirement becoming a myth?
Are new corporate 'longevity' roles a genuine fix for burnout or just a passing trend?
America’s Aging Workforce: The Unprecedented Rise and Impact of Workers 65 and Older
Overview
The U.S. labor force is undergoing a major demographic shift, with a significant and ongoing rise in the participation of older workers. Individuals aged 65 and older are now among the fastest-growing segments of the workforce, a trend expected to continue as the civilian population ages rapidly. This shift is not unique to the U.S.; globally, older populations are increasing and are projected to keep rising through 2050. Organizations are increasingly relying on older talent, partly due to persistent talent shortages, leading them to tap into this expanding labor pool. These changes are reshaping the workforce and driving new strategies for employers and policymakers alike.