The U.S. population is older than it’s ever been, with the median age of residents at 38.9, reports The New York Times. The country is aging quickly—the median age was 35 in 2000 and 30 in 1980, according to data released by the Census Bureau.

Although 38 years old is not considered “old,” that age is an unusually high median for the country, and an aging country brings challenges to the work force, economy and social programs. The reason for the rising age is low birth rates, which decreased drastically in 2020 but have since increased; however, since 2007, fertility has remained very low compared with previous generations.

Maine is home to the oldest number of residents on average at 44.8 median age, and New Hampshire comes in second with 43.3 median age. The youngest states are Utah (31.9), the District of Columbia (34.8) and Texas (35.5).

Although America is aging, it’s still young compared to Europe, where the median age is 44. Historically, immigration has been the driving factor in a lower median age as immigrants are generally working-age adults and often have more children than native-born Americans. Immigration has slowed since 2016.

As the median age keeps rising in the United States, how will you ensure your workforce remains intact for years to come? Explore the page “How to Attract Employees” on the NACS website to learn how to reach and retain employees.