Population measures provide insight on how communities are changing in size and composition, as well as potential needs for public services. From 2000 to 2015-19 in Berks, there was more growth in older age brackets among both men and women. This included increases of 30% among women 60-84 and 59% among men 85 and older. This trend was generally similar to Pennsylvania and the U.S.
Changes in population by race and ethnicity can offer insight into a community’s level of diversity, which also may reflect particular challenges and opportunities. From 2000 to 2015-19, Berks County’s Hispanic population more than doubled, while its Asian population increased 55% and its African American population rose 65%. The county’s white population increased slightly (5%). These population changes were similar to the state and national levels.
The foreign-born population offers another measure. In 2015-19, 8% of Berks County’s population was foreign-born, up 4 percentage points from 2000. This percentage was similar to Pennsylvania, but less than the nation. In addition, 19% of Berks residents spoke a language other than English at home, up 6 percentage points since 2000. Both the state and nation increased 3 and 4 percentage points during this period.
| INDICATORS | TREND | BERKS COUNTY |
|---|---|
| Population by Age | Not Applicable |
| Change in Population by Age and Gender | Not Applicable |
| Change in Total Population by Race/Ethnicity | Not Applicable |
| Households by type | Not Applicable |
| Foreign-Born Population |  Increasing |
| Seniors Living Alone |  Maintaining |
| Language Diversity | Increasing |
Decreasing
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