M I L L E N N I A L S
A N D
P O P U L A T I O N
G R O W T H
Millennials
Move on the
T Photo by Jay Dash | cour tesy visitutah.com
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BUSINE SS IN U TA H
by S AVA N N A H K I N G
he millennial generation is the largest in America with more than 75 million people — a figure that represents almost two-fifths of the working age population. They’re also the most diverse generation in U.S. history with some 44% being represented by minorities. In the last decade, Utah ranks No. 1 among the states for population growth. The Census Bureau estimates Utah’s current population at 3,161,105, with nearly 58,000 residents added in 2018. According to a 2017 report by the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute at The University of Utah, the state’s population is expected to increase from approximately 3 million to 5.8 million by 2065. Net migrations will account for
one-third of the increase, with the other two-thirds coming from natural increase (births minus deaths). The report indicates growth rates are projected to decrease over the next 50 years, but Utah will likely exceed national growth rates. Utah’s median age is also expected to increase, rising from 30.7 years in 2015 to 38.3 years in 2065. Over the next 50 years, Salt Lake County will likely remain the most populous in the state. In the southwest corner of the state, Washington County is expected to have the most rapid rate of growth with over half a million new residents expected in the county by 2065. Salt Lake City Sustainability Communications Manager Sophia Nicholas said, “Our millennials realize that living
