IV-256 



be designated as the coastal zone, where only a handful of some 274 

 coastal counties experienced any population decline during either 

 of the ten-year periods between 1940 and 1960. 



URBAN-RURAL SHIFTS 



The growth of population in urban areas and relative decline 1n 

 rural areas has been a steady trend in America since the first Cen- 

 sus was taken. As Figure IV. 4. 3 shows, the 1920 Census marked a 

 symbolic turning point, with urban citizens outnumbering rural ones 

 for the first time. Metropol1tan1sm 1s fast becoming central to 

 consideration of all aspects of American life. In 1965, 67 percent 

 of the country's population lived 1n the 212 SMSA's Identified by 

 the Bureau of the Budget. 



AGE COMPOSITION 



The age composition of the population will also change 1n ensuing 

 years. Of particular significance is the expected rise 1n the main 

 working age population (ages 25-64) from 86.4 million in 1966 to 

 about 90.1 million 1n 1970 and 123.9 million 1n 1990. From 1975 on, 

 the younger portion of this age group is expected to increase rapidly, 

 while the number of elderly citizens shows only a slight increase. 



NATIONAL ECONOMIC GROWTH 



The amount of personal income generated 1n the economy indicates the 

 general capacity to purchase goods, services, and amenities. 



