This report uses data from Census 2000 to show how and why the age structure of the Appalachian population differs from the national average and varies within the Region. The report examines implications for the region and argues that they are not all negative. The changing age structure will be an important fact of life for decisionmakers in both the public and private sectors in Appalachia in coming years–but the Appalachian Region will hardly be alone in dealing with the challenges.