To date or not to date?

OK, I'm hoping I still have a few readers who can give me some advice here. 

No, I'm not dating anyone - nothing new there.  I've been so busy having fun this year, that it really hasn't been an issue. 

So, there's this guy.  We've worked together (my part-time job) for a while and have always gotten along well.  When I first met him, he was dating his long time girlfriend (who I liked).  (They are no longer dating.)I'd say we've gotten closer in the last year. 

We have a lot in common and see eye to eye on most things.  We text.  A LOT.  We talk on the phone probably once a week.  He comes to me for advice on stuff.  I tell him what's going on with me.  We usually hug when we see each other.  And I've been out for drinks/dinner with him (and a few buddies) several times.

Here's the thing.  He's 24.  I'm 35.  :-)  Didn't see that coming, did ya?

Now, I've never really had a crush or anything on him.  But, I will say I've always thought, "Dang, if he were older, I think we'd probably date."  And others have mentioned the idea to me before, in the past.

So, recently, I've had a handful of people make comments to me, such as, "Why don't you and X date?  I don't get it!  You two should date!"  And when I come back with the age difference, no one seems to think it's an issue.

I will say, he's the most mature 24 year old I've ever met.  You'd never know that's how old he is.

I have NO CLUE if people have made the same comments to him.  (Although, I'm curious!)

It's a tricky situation, but I have to say - I think I'd be open to dating him, or at least seeing what's there.  But, I really have no clue how he feels.  If I had to guess, I'd say he's had the same thought as me, "If she were younger, I'd date her."  But who knows?  My radar could be completely wrong.

I feel like all the contact (texts/phone calls) might mean something?  I don't know.  I don't want to mess up our friendship or make either one of us uncomfortable, either.

So, dear readers, what would YOU do?  What are your thoughts on this potential date?  HELP!