This article is part of an ongoing, county-by county, overview of the Tri-County Area. This article covers the age distribution in Eaton County. Knowing this information helps communities prepare and fund what residents need based on their stage of life. Additionally, these data can show how many workers are or will be in the labor force.

Eaton County’s population distribution closely mirrors that of Michigan and the United States, similar to the pattern observed in Clinton County in the previous newsletter. In all three geographies, the largest share of residents falls within the 20–34 age group. About 19% of Eaton County's population is in this cohort, slightly higher than Clinton County, but slightly lower than Michigan.

This is a positive indicator for future workforce sustainability, as a strong concentration of young adults suggests a pipeline of individuals who can replace retiring workers and support long-term economic stability.

Figure 1: Population Distribution by Age Group, 2024

 

Source: Points Consulting using Michigan Capital Region Data Hub

Figure 2 shows the 10-year population change from 2014 to 2024, highlighting a clear trend of population aging across Eaton County, Michigan, and the United States. While the older adult population has grown substantially in all three geographies, Eaton County has also experienced meaningful growth in one middle age group.

To be specific, the population ages 35 to 44 increased by 12.2% in Eaton County surpassing Michigan’s growth rate of 5.3% and closely mirroring the national trend. This is an encouraging sign, as it indicates that Eaton County is attracting or retaining working-age adults at a competitive rate. At the same time, the County is also experiencing strong growth in the 75-and-older population (35.1%), which leads all comparison areas. An article from Bridge Michigan notes that maintaining and growing Michigan’s workforce population is essential; without it, the state’s economic growth will lag behind that of other states.^[1]

These patterns highlight the need to focus on maintaining and expanding a younger workforce that can fill roles as older residents retire. This focus ensures continuity in the labor market and supports long-term economic productivity.

Figure 2: Population Change between 2014 and 2024 by Age Group Distributions

 

Source: Points Consulting using Michigan Capital Region Data Hub

Figure 3 shows trends among the primary working age group (those aged 25 to 54), as these individuals represent workers that have been trained or educated and are several years away from retirement. The primary workforce population in both Eaton County and Michigan had been declining even before the COVID-19 pandemic. However, both areas have experienced an upward trend since 2022. Given the high proportion of residents in Eaton County who are retired or nearing retirement age, this recent growth in key working-age groups is an encouraging sign for the County’s future labor force stability.

Figure 3: Cumulative Change of Primary Workforce Age Group (25-54)

 

Source: Points Consulting using Michigan Capital Region Data Hub