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� <br />In analyzing housing needs, the various age groups within the resident population have different <br />housing needs. For example, persons in older age groups have typically finished raising their <br />children and often desire smaller, more easily maintained housing units. Middle age households, <br />however, usually still have children at home and thus, have needs for larger living quarters and <br />private open space. This age group typically earns a higher wage and occupies a lazger, single-family <br />home. Young adults may be independently occupying a dwelling unit for the first time. As they <br />establish themselves in the workplace, their income levels are typically lower. Young adults may <br />also be starting a family, which can create additional financial burden. Younger adults, therefore, <br />tend to occupy rental units or some form of entry-level ownership housing. <br />Table 2-2 illustrates the age distribution of City of Colton residents. The age structure of a <br />population is an important factor in evaluating housing needs and projecting the direction of future <br />housing development. <br />Table 2-2 <br />Age Structure of the Population <br />Age Group % of Population <br />Under age 18 32.4% <br />18 - 34 ears 35.0% <br />35 - 44 ears 133% <br />45 - 54 eazs 7.2% <br />55 - 64 eazs 5.4% <br />65 Years and Over 6.7% <br />Median Age 27.5 years <br />aources: i yyo ua. �ensus, t,oi[on nconmruc veve�opmrni rroiue <br />Based on reviewing the data in Table 2-2, the ]azgest segment of the City's residents aze between 18 <br />and 34 years of age (35.0%) and less than 18 years of age (32.4%), while slightly over 25% are <br />between the ages of 35 and 64. Based on this age structure, it is logical to assume that Colton has a <br />strong demand for rental and entry-level ownership housing. <br />Race/Ethnicitv <br />Colton was predominantly Hispanic in 1990, according to the census data. This predominance <br />remains today, according to more recent data compiled by the City. In 1990, Hispanics comprised <br />an estimated 49.7 percent of the population. Data from the City of Colton and State Department of <br />Finance projects that Hispanics will continue to compose the majority of residents into the year 2010. <br />Housing Element <br />City of Colton <br />2000-2005 <br />16 <br />