Return to Virginia Business - September 2003

Around the Old Dominion

The graying of Virginia

by Virginia Business Staff
September 2003

Now we know why it’s called the Old Dominion. According to a recent census study Virginia has moved into the top 10 states in attracting the elderly, showing a net gain of 6,937 persons 65 and older between 1995 and 2000. Virginia ranked ninth.

Topping the list is Florida, followed by Arizona and Nevada. Other southeastern states attracting elderly residents include North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia and Tennessee.

In Virginia, Williamsburg and Charlottesville are popular spots for the elderly, as are Virginia’s Eastern Shore and the Northern Neck. Though the state’s net gain isn’t a huge number it underscores a trend state demographers say will continue for at least another 20 years. The number of Virginians age 60 to 74 will more than double by 2025 to nearly 1.4 million, according to the Virginia Department for the Aging.

Virginia Business - September 2003