Global Life Expectancy in 2025:
Which Countries Live Longest?

Global life expectancy has risen dramatically over the past century — from an average of around 45 years in 1900 to approximately 73 years globally today, according to the World Health Organization's most recent data. But the variation between nations is striking.

The Top 10 Longest-Living Countries

Based on WHO 2023 data, the countries with the highest average life expectancy at birth (combined male and female) are:

1. Japan — 84.3 years
2. Switzerland — 83.4 years
3. South Korea — 83.3 years
4. Australia — 83.3 years
5. Spain — 83.2 years
6. Italy — 83.2 years
7. Iceland — 83.1 years
8. Israel — 82.7 years
9. Singapore — 82.7 years
10. Sweden — 82.6 years

Why Does Japan Live So Long?

Japan's remarkable longevity is attributed to several factors working in combination: a traditional diet rich in fish, vegetables, and fermented foods; strong social cohesion and community ties (particularly through the concept of ikigai — a reason for being); universal healthcare; and low rates of obesity.

The island of Okinawa has historically been one of the world's "Blue Zones" — regions with unusually high concentrations of centenarians.

The Gender Gap

In virtually every country, women outlive men. The global gap is approximately 5 years. In Russia, the gap is as high as 10 years. Explanations include biological factors (oestrogen's protective cardiovascular effects), behavioural patterns (historically higher rates of smoking and risky behaviour among men), and occupational hazards.

What Factors Most Influence Lifespan?

Research consistently identifies the following as the most significant determinants of individual longevity:

• Non-smoking — single largest preventable cause of premature death
• Physical activity — even 30 minutes of moderate walking daily significantly reduces all-cause mortality
• Diet — Mediterranean and plant-rich diets consistently associated with longer life
• Social connection — loneliness is as harmful as smoking 15 cigarettes per day (Harvard longevity study)
• Sleep — consistently 7–9 hours per night correlates with best health outcomes
• Healthcare access — universal healthcare systems produce better population-level outcomes

Estimate Your Own Life Expectancy

Curious where you stand statistically? Our Life Expectancy Calculator uses WHO data to give you a country-specific and gender-specific estimate of your lifespan, along with a visual breakdown of your life lived versus life remaining.

Remember: statistics describe populations, not individuals. Lifestyle choices remain the most powerful lever any individual has over their own longevity.