Youth Demographics

Young People in the Numbers

There are 40.7 million 18-29 year-old citizens in the United States, over twice the number of 66-77 year-olds (20 million). Source: Census Bureau CPS 2004

Nationally, 18-24 year-olds make up 13% of the population of eligible voters in the United States; 18-29 year-olds make up 21% of the voting eligible population. (CPS 2004)

In 2000 there were 72.4 million 0-17 year-old citizens, almost as many as the Baby Boomers (77.6 million between the ages of 36 and 54).

The majority of young* African-Americans (55%) were female in 2000.

The majority of young Hispanics (55%) were male in 2000.

Young Americans are 20 percentage points less likely to be married than they were in 1972.

Source: Youth Demographics

Changes in Race and Ethnicity
Between 1972 and 2000, the percentage of young citizens who are white has steadily fallen from approximately 88% in 1972 to approximately 65% in 2000.

The percentage of young citizens who are Hispanic has grown over 10 percentage points from 5% in 1976 to 16% in 2000.

Source: Youth Demographics

Education
High School
20% of 18-24 year olds do not have a high school diploma (the same as in 1972).

Nearly 40% of young Hispanic citizens do not have a high school diploma.

Approximately 22% of young African-Americans do not have a high school diploma.

College
47% of all 18-24 year-olds have had no college experience.

72% of young Hispanic citizens have had no college experience.

Source: Youth Demographics

* Unless otherwise noted young people are defined as 18-24 year olds.