Which age range is considered working-age in the dependency ratio?

• A. 0–14
• B. 65+
• C. 15–64
• D. 18–65

Answer: (C)

Working-age is the group typically considered able to work and support dependents. In the dependency ratio, the working-age bracket used is 15–64, because this range covers most people who participate in the labor force or could reasonably do so, from late teens through to around the typical retirement age. Using 15–64 as the working-age group lets the ratio compare those who are likely to be economically active with those who depend on them (young and old).

The dependency ratio is calculated as the number of dependents (0–14 and 65+) divided by the number of people of working age (15–64), then multiplied by 100. The other ranges don’t fit this measure: 0–14 are dependents, and 65+ are typically dependents as well; 18–65 would exclude many who work and include some who aren’t yet in the workforce, so it isn’t the standard definition.