Number of Americans in their 100s expected to quadruple in the next 30 years

(TND) — The number of centenarians – folks at least 100 years old – is expected to quadruple in the U.S. over the next 30 years, according to the Pew Research Center.

The Center, citing Census Bureau projections, says the number of American centenarians is expected to grow from just over 100,000 today to around 422,000 by 2054.

That’ll continue the steady increase in the U.S. centenarian population, which has nearly tripled over the last several decades.

And it marks an astounding increase from 1950, when there were just an estimated 2,300 Americans 100 or older.

Women account for 78% of current-day centenarians, according to the Pew Research Center.

Women are still projected to make up the vast majority, 68%, of centenarians by 2054.

Over three-quarters of American centenarians are white.

Japan is the only country with more centenarians today, with an estimated 146,000.

China, which has the third-most centenarians, is projected to take the top spot in the next 30 years.

The Pew Research Center also says the share of the American population over age 65 is expected to increase from 18% today to 23% by 2054.