TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The country you call home can impact much more than your daily life—it can also influence how long you live. This is referred to as life expectancy, and it varies significantly from one nation to another.
Around the world, countries report different life expectancy rates, shaped by a variety of factors including lifestyle, healthcare systems, and the overall environment. These factors can even place some among countries with highest life expectancy in the world.
10 Countries with Highest Life Expectancy
Visual Capitalist has revealed the full ranking of countries with highest life expectancy, finding Monaco and San Marino taking the top spot. Other nations that share the distinction include:
1. Monaco | 88.5 years old
Best known for its luxurious lifestyle, Monaco is the country with the highest life expectancy, averaging around 88.5 years old for both women and men. Exceptional quality of life, high-quality and accessible healthcare systems, as well as a delightful environment, all contributed to its well-earned reputation. Plus, people in Monaco are famously known to embrace a healthy Mediterranean diet and do a lot of outdoor activities.
2. San Marino | 85.8 years old
Despite being named among the smallest countries in the world, San Marino firmly stands tall with its high life expectancy of around 85.8 years old. The nation has long been a top contender in terms of healthcare systems, prevention programs, and stable economy which ultimately leaves impacts on its people's health and longevity.
3. Hong Kong | 85.6 years old
While Hong Kong’s statehood is contested by some, it has managed to secure a place on the ranking, with an average life expectancy of 86.5 years old. The steady increase in Hong Kong’s success is attributed to a combination of factors, including well-promoted health awareness to plentiful outdoor spaces and accessible healthcare.
4. Japan | 84.8 years old
Japan is cited among the countries with highest life expectancy, with an average of about 84.8 years old. Japan has long been committed to healthy eating habits that emphasize nutritious ingredients such as vegetables and fish, while being low in saturated fats and processed foods. While universal healthcare is at play, the culture of commuting by public transportation is deeply embedded in daily life which encourages people to stay physically active.
5. South Korea | 84.4 years old
South Korea has seen a significant rise in life expectancy in recent years, now averaging around 84.4 years. The key to its improvement lies in a combination of factors, including the country’s continuous investment in advancing its medical system with high-tech tools and skilled medical professionals. Similarly to Japan, Koreans are also accustomed to a commuting culture that promotes daily physical activity, and they embrace a healthy diet rich in vegetables and fermented foods.
6. Andorra | 84.2 years old
Securing a place in countries with highest life expectancy, people in Andorra can expect to live until the age of around 84.2 years old. Famously known for its healthy lifestyle, the European country also benefits from low stress levels, a clean environment, and a top-tier healthcare system.
7. Switzerland | 84.1 years old
Switzerland is synonymous with high living standards, and it’s no surprise to see the nation fostering high life expectancy among its people. According to Swissinfo.ch, the government is projected to allocate 12.1% of its GDP to healthcare, and the positive outcomes of this investment are clearly evident. People then have access to high-quality medical care, while also maintaining a healthy lifestyle and a strong social security.
8. Australia | 84.1 years old
Averaging 84.1 years old, Australians owe their longevity to a few important factors. From advances in the healthcare system, strong public health initiatives, to low smoking rates and the arrival of many young immigrants, the Land Down Under even leads among English-speaking countries in life expectancy. It then comes no wonder that Australia is often ranked among the best countries to live in.
9. Italy | 83.9 years old
Italy rounds out the top 10 with an average life expectancy of about 83.9 years. It’s not just genetics that contribute to this, but also Italians’ habit of walking regularly and their Mediterranean diet. On top of that, strong social bonds and close family connections help keep people happy and active.
10. Singapore | 83.9 years old
Tying with Italy, Singapore boasts a life expectancy of 83.9 years. As noted by The Straits Times, the city-state’s success is driven by its world-class healthcare system, universal medical care, and a rise in healthier lifestyles among Singaporeans.
Together, these countries with highest life expectancy in the world showcase how a blend of quality healthcare, lifestyle choices, environment, and social factors can influence the length and quality of people’s lives.
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