Eagle County, like much of Colorado, is undergoing significant demographic shifts that will shape our community and economy for decades. Population growth is slowing, our workforce is aging, and migration patterns are changing. These trends bring challenges, but they also present opportunities for adaptation and innovation. Understanding these shifts allows us to position ourselves to thrive amid change.

Over the past decade, Eagle County’s population grew steadily, adding over 3,600 residents from 2010 to 2020, an increase of 6.9%. However, this trend has reversed in recent years, with the county losing 1,260 residents between July 2020 and July 2023, a 2.2% decline. This mirrors broader statewide patterns, driven by declining birth rates, increasing deaths, and reduced migration.

Birth rates in Colorado have reached their lowest levels since 2007, and Eagle County is no exception. In 2023, the county saw 509 births compared to 872 in 2007—a staggering 40% decline. As birth rates drop, we are seeing a ripple effect on everything from school enrollments to workforce retention. The most significant growth in Eagle County’s future population will come from residents aged 65 and older, while the number of young workers and children is shrinking.

An aging workforce presents a fundamental challenge. Retirements are creating significant labor shortages, with fewer young professionals entering the job market to replace them. Historically, migration has helped offset these trends, as new residents moved here for job opportunities. However, competition for workers has intensified both nationally and globally. Attracting and retaining talent in Eagle County will require intentional strategies to ensure businesses remain competitive and our workforce remains strong.

Despite slowing population growth, Eagle County is becoming increasingly diverse. Younger generations reflect more racial and ethnic diversity than previous ones, following state and national trends. For businesses, schools, and organizations, this presents an opportunity to foster inclusivity and embrace varied perspectives, strengthening our community and economy.

Housing remains a central issue tied to demographic changes. Eagle County’s housing stock has grown from 33,158 units in 2020 to 34,567 in 2023, yet supply lags behind demand.

Rising home prices and lack of income-aligned housing have made it difficult for many workers to live near their jobs, forcing longer commutes or even relocation. Addressing housing affordability is essential to retaining talent and ensuring our local workforce can continue to support our community.

Migration patterns are shifting as well. While young professionals continue to be drawn to Eagle County, the high cost of living has pushed some longtime residents to seek affordability elsewhere. Retaining workers and families means addressing housing challenges, ensuring wages keep pace with living costs, and fostering a community where people feel supported and valued.

The path forward requires thoughtful, collaborative solutions. Workforce development is crucial to bridging the labor gap and investing in education and training programs can help align skills with job market needs. Housing solutions must be creative, leveraging public-private partnerships (such as Habitat for Humanity), workforce housing initiatives, and incentives for local home ownership.

Demographic trends are not static—they evolve as people adapt to changing circumstances. For Eagle County, the future depends on our ability to respond to these shifts with foresight and collaboration. We must continue to focus on building a community that can not only attract but retain our locals and provide a community foundation that allows our kids to stay and grow their careers at home.

By understanding the needs of our aging population, addressing housing challenges, and creating opportunities for the next generation, we can ensure that Eagle County remains a sustainable community in the future.

Chris Romer is president & CEO of Vail Valley Partnership, 3-time national chamber of the year. Learn more at VailValleyPartnership.com