This demographic shift can be traced to two primary causes: larger numbers of younger Americans (ages 0 to 44) are ethnic minorities, and increasing numbers of white workers are reaching retirement age. Over the next 15 years, the largest increase in the younger U.S. population is projected to be Hispanic/Latino (see figure 2). The younger population—including those most likely to be in school, college, or professional training—is growing ever more racially diverse.

Meanwhile, the largest portion of the white population is aging. The number of whites is projected to decline in all age groups younger than 45 (see figure 2). The only age level in which whites would outpace minorities in population growth is among those reaching retirement: ages 65 and older.