Ohio is the seventh most populous state, but its population is projected to grow by less than 1% over the next 30 years. Over this same time period, Ohio’s older population will become an increasing proportion of the state’s citizens; by 2025, more than 1 in 4 Ohioans will be age 60 and older. 

Policy makers, local governments, service planners and others interested in long-term services and supports have long relied on research from the Scripps Ohio Population project. The Ohio Population website and downloadable resources were established to help users understand the demographic changes and trends taking place at the county and state level. The newest version of the website provides an enhanced user experience through an interactive data center, printable versions of all content, and expanded information about the older population including labor force participation and grandparents raising grandchildren. The updated site uses current data in state and county reports, population projections and maps.

“We’re here to help you understand and visualize how Ohio’s older population will change over the next several decades at the state and county levels. With good information, communities can plan for their projected populations of older adults and persons with a disability,” Research Scholar Matt Nelson said.

The Interactive Data Center is a highlight of the renovated site. Developed in consultation with a variety of Ohio Population website users, the IDC features a variety of customizable data visualizations including animated charts, maps and data downloads that respond instantly to user-selected criteria such as age group and county.

“I appreciate how easy it is to use the interactive data center on this site. I frequently use the charts and data to forecast and plan for future service needs and help communicate the need for programs and services to decision makers in the counties we serve,” said Ken Wilson, Vice President of Program Operations for the Council on Aging of Southwestern Ohio.

All of the information on the website is also available for users to download, print and use for their own research and planning needs. 

To learn more, visit www.Ohio-Population.org or for questions, reach out to Matt Nelson at Nelsonim@MiamiOH.edu.