States with the most adults of retirement age still working
For many Americans, the typical life plan has long been school, work, retirement at 65, and living comfortably. But not as many people are traveling that path anymore.
Nearly 19% of people of retirement age—65 years or older—remain in the workforce. In fact, Americans over 55 are the only age group that increased its labor force participation rate from 2001 to 2021. Projections expect that trend to continue into the next decade.
Many simply don't want to retire because they enjoy what they do and don't want to slow down. Some find that retirement doesn't suit them and return to work to add meaning to their lives.
Others work because they can't afford retirement. According to the Economic Policy Institute, roughly one-third of workers aged 55 to 64 don't have access to a retirement savings plan. Those who rely solely on Social Security benefits may find they don't cover all of their living expenses. Major unplanned expenses like medical bills can also keep people in the workforce.
Stacker used 2021 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Census Bureau to find what share of each state's retirement-age population, those 65 and older, still participate in the labor force. Labor force statistics are calculated based on the civilian noninstitutional population, meaning those adults who are not incarcerated or in long-term medical facilities. It's helpful to note that age 65 is the typical age for retirement, as it's the age to qualify for Medicare.
Continue reading to find out whether your state has the most adults of retirement age still at work.
