District of Columbia Population Pyramid 2024
District of Columbia Population Pyramid 2024
Current age and gender distribution for District of Columbia's 713,353 residents
District of Columbia Population Changes 2000-2024
Watch how District of Columbia's demographics evolved over the past 24 years
Historical Demographic Changes
Watch how District of Columbia's population structure evolved from 2000 to 2024
District of Columbia Demographics Overview
Total Population
713,353
2024
Median Age
34.0 yrs
US: 38.5
Sex Ratio
89
M per 100 F
Growth '00-'24
+22.8%
24-year
Age Structure
Dependency Ratios
Gender Balance
Historical Trends
Key Demographics
| Total Population | 713,353 |
| Male Population | 336,757(47.2%) |
| Female Population | 376,596(52.8%) |
| Median Age | 34.0 years |
| Sex Ratio | 89.4 males per 100 females |
| Youth (0-14) | 111,274(15.6%) |
| Working Age (15-64) | 522,223(73.2%) |
| Elderly (65+) | 79,856(11.2%) |
| Total Dependency Ratio | 36.6 |
| Youth Dependency Ratio | 21.3 |
| Old Age Dependency Ratio | 15.3 |
| Pyramid Type | Stationary |
Dependency Ratios: Number of dependents per 100 working-age individuals.
Trending Analysis & State Rankings
Detailed District of Columbia Demographic Analysis
Gender Distribution
District of Columbia's population of 713,353 consists of 336,757 males (47.2%) and 376,596 females (52.8%). This represents a sex ratio of 89 males per 100 females, which is slightly female-skewed compared to the national average.
The gender balance varies significantly across age groups. In younger cohorts (0-24 years), males slightly outnumber females, which is typical due to naturally higher male birth rates. However, in older age groups (65+), females substantially outnumber males due to their longer life expectancy. This pattern has important implications for healthcare planning, particularly for gender-specific medical services and elder care facilities.
Age Structure and Dependency Ratios
The median age of 34 years places District of Columbia below the national median, indicating a relatively younger population profile. The youth dependency ratio stands at N/A, meaning there are approximately N/A children and teenagers for every 100 working-age adults. Meanwhile, the old-age dependency ratio is 15.3, indicating 15 seniors for every 100 working-age residents.
The total dependency ratio of N/A suggests that each working-age person in District of Columbiatheoretically supports N/A dependents. This ratio is crucial for understanding the economic burden on the productive population and has direct implications for tax policy, social services funding, and workforce development strategies.
Labor Force and Economic Potential
District of Columbia's working-age population (15-64 years) comprises 73.2% of the total population, representing approximately 522,223 potential workers. This demographic segment is the economic engine of the state, generating tax revenue, driving consumer spending, and supporting both younger and older dependents.
Within the working-age population, the distribution across age cohorts reveals important economic dynamics. The 25-54 age range, often considered prime working years, represents the core of District of Columbia's labor force. The size and growth trajectory of this group directly impacts economic productivity, housing demand, and consumer market dynamics.With a robust 73.2% working-age population, District of Columbia is well-positioned for economic growth.
Youth Demographics and Future Workforce
The youth population (ages 0-14) accounts for 15.6% of District of Columbia's total population, numbering approximately 111,274 children and teenagers. This cohort represents the future workforce and tax base of the state. The size of this group relative to the total population indicates potential challenges in maintaining population levels without migration.
Educational infrastructure requirements are directly tied to youth population size. With approximately 37,091 children in each 5-year age cohort,District of Columbia must maintain adequate capacity in elementary, middle, and high schools. The transition of these youth cohorts into working age over the next two decades will be critical for replacing retiring baby boomers and maintaining economic vitality.
Aging Population and Healthcare Implications
District of Columbia's senior population (65+) comprises 11.2% of residents, totaling approximately 79,856 individuals. This represents a relatively young population with manageable senior care requirements. The aging index of 71.8 indicates there are 72 seniors for every 100 children under 15, reflecting the state's position in the demographic transition.
Healthcare system capacity becomes increasingly critical with 11.2% of the population in age groups with higher medical needs. The 85+ population, requiring the most intensive care, represents the fastest-growing segment in many states. District of Columbia must plan for expanded geriatric care, assisted living facilities, and specialized medical services. The potential support ratio of 6.5means there are approximately 7 working-age adults for each senior, a critical metric for understanding the sustainability of pension systems and senior care programs.
Population Growth and Migration Patterns
Between 2000 and 2024, District of Columbia's population evolved from 581,004 to 713,353, representing a 22.8% increase. This translates to an average annual growth rate of 0.86%,exceeding the national average.
The median age shift from 34 years in 2000 to 34 years in 2024 reflects broader demographic transitions. This change of 0.0 years indicates relative age stability. These patterns result from the complex interplay of birth rates, death rates, and migration flows that shape District of Columbia's demographic landscape.
Economic and Social Policy Implications
District of Columbia's demographic structure has profound implications for economic planning and social policy. With 73.2% of the population in prime productive years, the state's tax base and economic output depend heavily on this group's employment rates and productivity levels. The relatively low senior population share of 11.2% creates manageable pressure on pension systems, Medicare, and social security programs.
Educational investment priorities must align with the youth population of 15.6%.The relatively small youth cohort suggests potential school consolidations and resource reallocation may be necessary. Furthermore, workforce development programs must anticipate the skills needed as 111,274young people enter the labor market over the coming decades, while simultaneously managing the transition of 79,856 seniors into retirement.
District of Columbia Population Dynamics Summary
District of Columbia's population pyramid and demographic indicators reveal a state in demographic transition with balanced age cohorts. The current demographic structure suggests District of Columbia will need to focus on balanced policies addressing both youth development and senior care needs.
Looking ahead, these demographic trends will shape District of Columbia's economic competitiveness, fiscal sustainability, and quality of life. Policy makers must consider these population dynamics when planning infrastructure investments, designing social programs, and developing economic strategies that leverage the state's demographic strengths while addressing its challenges.
About District of Columbia Demographics Data
This District of Columbia population pyramid and demographic analysis uses official US Census data to provide accurate, up-to-date population statistics. The interactive visualizations help researchers, policymakers, businesses, and students understand District of Columbia's demographic structure and trends.