U.S. Life Expectancy Rates Increased To Highest Level Since Pandemic – Health & Well Being
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Recently released data by the Center of Disease Control and Prevention reveal that life expectancy in the U.S. increased to 79.3 years in 2024. During the pandemic, life expectancy fell as the three leading causes of death in 2020 were heart disease, cancer and Covid-19. Life expectancy for all Americans in 2019 was 78.8 years, falling to 77 years in 2020. Those aged 85 and older saw the most deaths, many experiencing medical complications from Covid-19. In 2020, Covid related deaths exceeded deaths caused by strokes, Alzheimers, diabetes, and kidney disease.
The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services tracks factors contributing to life expectancy including age, gender and race. The most recent data revealed that females are estimated to live to age 83.8 while males are expected to live to 76.1, a seven year difference.
Medical advancements and safer living conditions over the decades have led to a gradual increase in life expectancy. In 1860, life expectancy in the United States was 39, increasing to 69 in 1960, representing a 30 year life span increase in 100 years.
Sources: U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, CDC
Print Version: Life-Expectancy-Rates-Jan-2025
