We’re Going Gray — Fast

Northern Lakes Economic Alliance report says trend poses serious challenges

By Lynda Wheatley | Nov. 6, 2021

Much of northwest Lower Michigan is getting grayer, and we’re not talking about the folks who quit coloring their hair when pandemic restrictions shuttered salons in 2020. The U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey reports that 33.3 percent of the people living in Antrim, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, and Emmet counties were age 60 or older. In 2010, that 60+ population was 25.3 percent. Considering that region’s overall population decreased in that same period — from 109,708 to 107,916 — the rapid increase in the over-60 crowd is not only significant but concerning, says Northern Lakes Economic Alliance in a recent report.  

The group, whose aim is to provide resources to communities and entrepreneurs to create and retain jobs in Antrim, Charlevoix, and Cheboygan counties, contends that rapidly aging communities pose serious challenges to local communities and economies, playing a part in driving labor shortages and housing challenges, and increasing demand on industries like health care, retirement communities, restaurants, and recreation,

“These demographic trends warrant a serious examination by community leaders,” the report urges. “In order to maintain our vibrant economy, our workforce needs to be maintained. The COVID-19 pandemic and the increase in work-from-home options may have contributed to last year’s population growth, but that does not mean new residents entered our local workforce. Our leaders need to explore avenues for attracting young professionals and families to the area.”

To read the full report, visit northernlakes.net.