Stillwater's Demographic Reality

What the 2023 Census Data Reveals About Our FuturePrepared by Stillwater Town Hall for community information and dialogueStillwater Township is home to 4,030 residents according to the latest U.S. Census Bureau data. The numbers reveal two significant trends that deserve our attention: we have an aging population, and we are not attracting enough young families. These are not opinions—they are facts supported by data. Understanding these realities is essential as we plan for Stillwater's future.

Nearly 1 in 4 Stillwater residents is 65 or older. Specifically, 24.9% of our population (1,005 people) has reached retirement age. To put this in perspective:•National average: Approximately 17-18% of Americans are 65 or older•Stillwater: 24.9% are 65 or older•The difference: Stillwater has roughly 40% more seniors as a percentage of population compared to the national averageWhen we expand to age 60 and over, the picture becomes even clearer: 30.3% of Stillwater residents (1,221 people) are in or approaching retirement age. That's nearly 1 in 3 residents.The largest concentration of residents is in their 50s. When we combine the 50-54 and 55-59 age groups, they represent 20.3% of our population—more than 1 in 5 residents. These individuals are approaching retirement, which means our senior population will continue to grow in the coming decade.

On the other end of the spectrum, only 16.8% of Stillwater residents are under 18 years old (676 children and teens). This is significantly below the national average:•National average: Approximately 22% of Americans are under 18•Stillwater: 16.8% are under 18•The difference: Stillwater has roughly 25% fewer children as a percentage of population compared to the national averageBreaking this down further:•Under 5 years old: 148 children (3.7%)•5 to 9 years old: 262 children (6.5%)•10 to 14 years old: 164 children (4.1%)•15 to 17 years old: 102 teens (2.5%)The youngest age group (under 5) represents less than 4% of our population. This suggests that very few young families with infants and toddlers are moving to Stillwater.

Perhaps most concerning is the near-absence of young adults. Only 6.2% of Stillwater residents are between 18 and 24 years old (249 people). This age group typically includes college students, recent graduates, and young workers starting their careers. Their low numbers suggest that:1.Young people who grow up in Stillwater leave for college or work and don't return2.Stillwater is not attracting young professionals or entry-level workers3.There is a "missing generation" between our aging population and the small number of school-age children

These demographic trends have real consequences for our community:

Schools and Youth Programs: With fewer children, school enrollment may decline, potentially affecting funding, programs, and the vibrancy of our educational system. Youth sports, recreation programs, and extracurricular activities may struggle to maintain participation levels.Economic Vitality: Young families drive local economic activity—they shop at local stores, use local services, and invest in their homes. A declining youth population means less economic activity and fewer customers for local businesses.Workforce: As our population ages and retires, who will fill essential jobs in our community? Without younger workers moving in, local businesses and services may struggle to find employees.Housing Market: If young families aren't buying homes in Stillwater, what does that mean for property values and the housing market? Are homes being purchased primarily by retirees or second-home buyers?

Tax Base: Retirees on fixed incomes contribute to the tax base, but working-age families with children typically generate more economic activity and tax revenue. An aging population with fewer working families could strain municipal finances.Community Services: As our senior population grows, demand for age-appropriate services (healthcare, transportation, senior programs) will increase. Are we prepared to meet these needs?Volunteer Base: Many community organizations rely on volunteers. While retirees often volunteer generously, a balanced age distribution ensures continuity and fresh perspectives.Community Character: Stillwater has always been a family-oriented, multi-generational community. Without young families, do we risk losing that character?

This is the critical question. The data shows that young families are not choosing Stillwater. Why not? Here are some possibilities worth discussing:Housing Affordability? Are homes in Stillwater priced beyond the reach of young families, especially first-time buyers?Employment Opportunities? Are there enough jobs in or near Stillwater to support young professionals and families?School Perception? Do young families perceive our schools as strong and competitive? Are there concerns about declining enrollment affecting quality?Amenities and Services? Do we offer the amenities that young families prioritize—parks, recreation, childcare, family-friendly businesses?Rural Character? Is Stillwater's rural, quiet character appealing to retirees but less attractive to young families who want suburban convenience?Awareness? Do young families even know about Stillwater as an option, or are they drawn to more visible suburban communities?These are not rhetorical questions. They deserve honest answers and community discussion.

The data is clear, but what we do with this information is up to us. Here are the questions we need to grapple with:1. Do we want to attract more young families? This is a values question. Some communities embrace their identity as retirement destinations. Others prioritize growth and youth. What does Stillwater want to be?2. If we want young families, what are we willing to do? Attracting young families may require changes—zoning adjustments, investment in schools and recreation, economic development initiatives, or infrastructure improvements. Are we willing to make those investments?3. How do we support our aging population? Regardless of whether we attract young families, we have a responsibility to serve our current residents. What services and programs do our seniors need?4. What role should local government play? Should the township actively work to attract young families, or should market forces determine Stillwater's demographic future?5. What can we do as individuals? Beyond government action, what can residents, business owners, and community organizations do to make Stillwater more attractive to young families?

These numbers are not a crisis—they are a reality check. Stillwater is a wonderful community with deep roots, natural beauty, and a strong sense of identity. But we cannot ignore the demographic trends that will shape our future.This is not about blame. It's about awareness and action.At Stillwater Town Hall, we believe that informed communities make better decisions. We're sharing this data not to alarm anyone, but to spark honest, productive conversations about who we are and who we want to be.What do you think?•Are you surprised by these numbers?•Do you see the aging population and lack of young families as a concern?•What should Stillwater's priorities be in the coming years?•What ideas do you have for attracting young families while supporting our aging residents?Share your thoughts. Challenge these conclusions. Offer solutions. This is exactly the kind of dialogue our community needs.

This report is based on the U.S. Census Bureau's 2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates for Stillwater Township, Sussex County, New Jersey. The ACS provides detailed demographic information about communities across the United States.Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2023 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates, Table S0101 (Age and Sex)Data Accuracy: The total population estimate of 4,030 has a margin of error of ±21.National Comparisons: National averages cited are based on 2023 U.S. Census Bureau data showing approximately 22% of the U.S. population is under 18, and approximately 17-18% is 65 or older.For detailed census data about Stillwater Township, visit data.census.gov.This report was prepared by Stillwater Town Hall for informational purposes only. We do not accept paid advertisements or sponsorships. Our goal is to provide the community with factual, unbiased information to support informed dialogue about Stillwater's future.