Current Medicare Enrollment Numbers
As of 2024, approximately 67 million people are enrolled in Medicare. This number has grown steadily over the past decade as the population ages and more people reach age 65, the standard age for Medicare may be able to access. The enrollment figure includes people on Medicare Part A (hospital insurance), Part B (medical insurance), Part D (prescription drug coverage), and those in Medicare Advantage plans.
The breakdown shows that about 44 million beneficiaries are age 65 and older, while roughly 11 million are younger than 65 and covered through Medicare because they have End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD), have been receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for at least 24 months, or have ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis). The remaining enrollees fall into other covered categories.
Key Takeaways
- Medicare covers approximately 67 million people in the United States, with enrollment growing as the population ages.
- About two-thirds of Medicare beneficiaries are age 65 and older, while one-sixth are younger and covered due to disability or specific medical conditions.
- Medicare enrollment varies by state, with states like California, Florida, and Texas having the highest absolute numbers of beneficiaries.
- The percentage of a state's population on Medicare ranges from about 13% to 20% depending on the state's age demographics.
- Enrollment in different Medicare plan types (Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, and Medigap) differs significantly by region and age group.
How Medicare Enrollment Has Changed Over Time
Medicare enrollment has grown by roughly 20% over the past 15 years. This growth reflects two main trends: the aging of the Baby Boomer generation and increased enrollment among younger people with disabilities. In 2010, Medicare covered about 47 million people; by 2024, that number had risen to 67 million.
The rate of growth is expected to continue. As more Baby Boomers turn 65 each year, Medicare enrollment is projected to reach approximately 80 million by 2030. This expansion affects program funding, provider networks, and the types of services available to beneficiaries.
Who Makes Up the Medicare Population
The majority of Medicare beneficiaries—about 44 million—are people age 65 and older. This group includes people who worked and paid Medicare taxes during their working years, as well as spouses of workers who paid those taxes. Most people in this age group are automatically enrolled in Medicare when they turn 65.
About 11 million Medicare beneficiaries are under age 65. This group includes people who have been receiving SSDI for at least 24 months, people with ESRD who need dialysis or a kidney transplant, and people with ALS. These younger beneficiaries must meet specific medical or disability criteria to be covered, and they often have different healthcare needs than older beneficiaries.
Medicare Enrollment by State and Region
Medicare enrollment varies significantly by state. States with larger and older populations have higher absolute numbers of beneficiaries. California has the most Medicare beneficiaries with over 5 million, followed by Florida with over 4 million, and Texas with over 3 million. However, the percentage of a state's population on Medicare tells a different story.
States where Medicare covers a higher percentage of the population tend to be those with older residents or lower birth rates. Maine, Vermont, and West Virginia have among the highest percentages of their populations on Medicare—ranging from 18% to 20%. Younger states like Utah and Alaska have lower percentages, typically between 13% and 15%. These regional differences affect healthcare provider availability and the types of services emphasized in different areas.
Different Types of Medicare Plans and Enrollment
Not all Medicare beneficiaries are enrolled in the same type of plan. Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) covers about 28 million people. Medicare Advantage (Part C) covers approximately 28 million beneficiaries and has grown significantly over the past decade. The remaining beneficiaries are split between other coverage types, including those with both Medicare and Medicaid (called "dual may be able to access" beneficiaries).
Enrollment in Medicare Advantage has nearly doubled since 2010, reflecting both marketing efforts by insurance companies and beneficiary preference for plans that bundle services and often include prescription drug coverage. Original Medicare remains the standard for many older beneficiaries, particularly those with complex medical needs or who live in rural areas with limited plan options.
Dual-may be able to access Beneficiaries and Special Populations
Approximately 12 million people are enrolled in both Medicare and Medicaid, known as "dual-may be able to access" beneficiaries. This group typically has lower incomes and higher healthcare needs than the general Medicare population. They often have chronic conditions, disabilities, or both, and they use more healthcare services on average than other beneficiaries.
Dual-may be able to access beneficiaries face unique challenges because they must navigate two separate insurance systems with different rules, coverage limits, and provider networks. States manage Medicaid differently, so the experience of being dual-may be able to access varies depending on where a person lives. Some states have integrated programs that try to coordinate care between Medicare and Medicaid, while others keep the systems separate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What percentage of the U.S. population is on Medicare?
Approximately 20% of the U.S. population is enrolled in Medicare. This percentage is growing as the population ages. In states with older populations, the percentage can reach 20% or higher, while in younger states it may be closer to 13%.
How many people under 65 are on Medicare?
About 11 million people under age 65 are covered by Medicare. These individuals have ESRD, have been receiving SSDI for at least 24 months, or have ALS. They represent roughly one-sixth of all Medicare beneficiaries.
Is Medicare enrollment still growing?
Yes. Medicare enrollment grows each year as more people turn 65 and as the population ages. Enrollment is projected to reach 80 million by 2030, an increase of about 13 million from current levels.
Which state has the most Medicare beneficiaries?
California has the largest number of Medicare beneficiaries with over 5 million people enrolled. Florida and Texas follow with over 4 million and 3 million respectively. These states have large populations and significant numbers of older residents.
What's the difference between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage enrollment?
Original Medicare covers about 28 million people, while Medicare Advantage covers approximately 28 million. Medicare Advantage enrollment has grown significantly since 2010 and now covers roughly 40% of all beneficiaries, compared to about 25% in 2010.