Spain stands among the nations with the longest life expectancy, averaging about 83 years, with women typically reaching around 86. This trend is expected to continue rising gradually in the coming years. At the same time, Spain faces a notably low birth rate, roughly 1.3 children per family, and a steadily aging population. The mean age has climbed from 27.5 in 1950 to about 42.5 today, signaling a demographic shift that shapes many aspects of society.
Moreover, the age at first childbirth has increased, with the current average around 32 years in Spain. Advances in reproductive technology and medicine have broadened the possibilities for pregnancy, and many pregnancies now occur in the 40s and even early 50s in some cases.
Alicante employees are aging
These demographic developments imply a significant change in the local labor force. Economic theory on aging populations often suggests that the share of working-age individuals declines relative to retirees. Some models forecast an eventual ratio of roughly 7.8 workers for every pensioner, potentially decreasing to about 3.3 workers per retiree by mid-century and as low as 1.7 by 2075. This projection reflects future fiscal and social pressures and has been discussed in multiple economic analyses conducted by researchers in the field.
Additionally, studies point to a drop in sustained active participation when family caregiving responsibilities—especially for children and the elderly—fall predominantly on women. While female participation in the labor market has risen to about 47 percent in recent years, future projections indicate potential downward pressure if caregiving demands remain high. This shift challenges the sustainability of welfare systems and prompts governments to explore strategies that can cushion aging effects while supporting families.
Answers
In the examined framework, two levers emerge: expanding the workforce through targeted immigration and increasing care capacity to sustain or raise women’s participation in the labor market. Immigration is seen as a way to broaden the labor pool, though it comes with policy considerations and tradeoffs. Analyses indicate that attracting skilled workers, with an average age around 33, could contribute to balancing the economy and supporting public finances. This perspective aligns with broader discussions on how labor-market design influences long-term fiscal health.
On immigration policy, economists note that it can spark debate for various reasons. Yet the central takeaway remains that thoughtful labor-market design matters. The most favorable outcomes arise when policies emphasize skill alignment and effective integration into the workforce, paired with prudent fiscal planning that supports sustained economic participation.
These are the jobs where workers are missing in Alicante.
Within the wider dialogue about labor supply, the projected slowdown in the working-age population could curb growth if not addressed. Projections for 2055 suggest a divergence from current growth paths, potentially around 17 percent lower than what would have occurred if the 2017 growth trend had persisted. This forecast underscores the need for proactive measures to preserve economic momentum and adapt to shifting demographics.
Looking at practical examples, Norway offers a model where accessible childcare and early education bolster women’s ongoing participation in the labor market. The presence of affordable childcare and straightforward access to schools reduces barriers for working mothers and supports broader economic involvement, illustrating how supportive policies can translate into healthier labor-force participation and stronger economic resilience.