Stars glow above a cabin in Catron County, New Mexico. The county, known for scenery and a dark sky for stargazers, has attracted retirees and now has one of the largest ratios of older adults to children in the country. (Photo courtesy of U.S. Forest Service by Belinda Mollard)
Catron County, New Mexico, exemplifies the aging population trend with its scenic allure drawing retirees under its starlit skies. Yet, the county faces challenges like limited medical care and a sparse young workforce. This mirrors a national shift, as the U.S. is projected to have more seniors than children by 2034, with concerns over Social Security’s future and reliance on a shrinking workforce.
“For quality healthcare, if you need even an X-ray, you are driving an hour and a half,” said Catron County Manager Deborah Mahler. “We have 900 miles of dirt roads that are not passable when it rains, so you have to have a four-wheel-drive vehicle with a high profile.”
While shuttle buses from some hospital systems offer limited aid, the county seeks more medical transportation and a local practice, hindered by a minimal tax base, Mahler noted. Catron County boasts attractions like world-class elk hunting and the Cosmic Campground, but vast parklands leave little room for industry to boost the economy.
As of last year, 17 states, including Michigan and New Mexico, have more seniors than children, per U.S. Census Bureau estimates. This demographic shift presents challenges seen in places like Sumter County, Florida, with nearly 8 seniors per child. States are responding with legislation; Wisconsin targets elder scams and healthcare transitions, New Mexico’s Medigap law aids Medicare users, and South Carolina aims for property tax breaks.
In 2020, only Florida, Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and West Virginia had more seniors than children. Since then, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Montana, Oregon, Pennsylvania, and Rhode Island have joined the list, reflecting a nationwide demographic shift.
