American Healthcare REIT (AHR) – A Strategic Play on America’s Aging Population
It’s no secret that the U.S. population is getting older — but not every company is set up to benefit from that shift as cleanly as American Healthcare REIT (NASDAQ: AHR). With nearly 72% of its income tied to high-acuity senior housing, AHR is positioned at the center of one of the most investable demographic trends of the next two decades.
This isn’t just a bet on senior living — it’s a targeted approach to capturing the growing demand for advanced care facilities. The company’s Integrated Senior Health Campuses (ISHCs) combine skilled nursing and assisted living under one roof, offering a more flexible care continuum for aging patients. That’s not just smart real estate; it’s a model with proven appeal to both patients and providers.
The macro tailwinds here are hard to ignore. Starting in 2026, the first baby boomers will begin turning 80 — and the 80+ population is forecast to grow by 3.2% annually from 2025 to 2026, and 5.9% annually from 2027 to 2028. AHR is already set up to benefit from that influx, and Jefferies expects the company to deliver a 12.7% compound annual earnings growth rate over the next three years — the second highest in its peer group.
The stock closed at $31.95 on April 29, 2025, and Jefferies has a $37 price target, which suggests 17% upside on top of a 3.1% dividend yield. The firm initiated coverage with a Buy rating, calling AHR “one of the cleanest ways to invest in the aging demographics theme.” And with shares already up 13% year-to-date, the market appears to be catching on.
Bottom line: if you’re looking for long-term income with structural demand built in, this is a name that deserves a spot on your radar. It’s defensive, it’s growing, and the demographic math is on its side.
