70+ age cohort expected to grow the most in Summit County over the next decade

In terms of raw growth, the 70-74 age bracket is expected to see the highest increase over the next decade. Photo: Summit County, Utah

SUMMIT COUNTY, Utah — The majority of population growth in Summit County over the next decade is expected to be in the 70+ age cohort, according to data published in a staff report ahead of Tuesday’s joint Summit County Council-Park City Council meeting.

“Most places are getting older, and particularly places that are less affordable,” said Summit County Economic Development Manager Jeff Jones.

Jones said the projection model takes into account U.S. Census data, birth and mortality rates from the U.S. Health Department, and numbers from the Utah Department of Workforce Services.

The data shows a decline in population in the 10-24 age cohort over the next ten years. In terms of growth percentage, the 85+ cohort is projected to see the highest increase.

A report from the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute at the University of Utah last year showed Summit County’s population growing 40.6% by 2060. Neighboring Wasatch County is estimated to grow 131.9% in the same timeframe.

Come 2060, Summit, Washington, and Kane counties are expected to have the oldest projected median ages, all at 51 years or older.

The two political bodies are scheduled to discuss affordable housing on Tuesday.

The joint meeting will take place at 9 a.m. at the Summit County Health Department building in Quinn’s Junction. Virtual attendance is available (Zoom link).