Comparing The American States With The Lowest & Highest Life Expectancy

In recent years, life expectancy in the United States has been declining. According to the American Medica Association, this trend is influenced by factors such as rising rates of chronic diseases, drug overdoses, and disparities in healthcare access.

But even as the national average decreases, the gap between the states with the highest and lowest life expectancies remains stark, driven by socio-economic, environmental, and cultural differences.

For instance, Mississippi has the lowest life expectancy in America and continues to face health challenges with some of the worst health indicators, including chronic diseases, women’s health, obesity, infant and maternal mortality, and more.

Let’s take a closer look at the five highest and lowest-ranking states for life expectancy and what sets them apart.

10 Kentucky

Life Expectancy: 72.3 years

Starting with the states with the lowest life expectancy, Kentucky ranks 5th lowest with an average life expectancy of 72.3 years. The state faces high rates of smoking (nearly 20%) and obesity (with almost half of the state having a BMI of over 30), which contribute to its elevated rates of lung cancer, heart disease, and diabetes.

Kentucky is also struggling with an opioid crisis, with substance abuse significantly impacting overall mortality rates. Economic challenges, particularly in rural areas, worsen health outcomes. Low median incomes and limited healthcare access leave many residents unable to afford necessary preventive care.

Despite this, Kentucky is known for its big focus on family and its rich musical heritage, especially in the bluegrass and country genres, which keep the community flourishing. Lexington, Kentucky, is known as the heart of Bluegrass Country, offering fun things to do.

Life Expectancy Metrics in Kentucky:

9 Louisiana

Life Expectancy: 72.2 years

Louisiana’s average life expectancy of 72.2 years is among the lowest in the country. Widespread poverty, coupled with limited access to quality healthcare, has contributed to high rates of chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension. The state also has a significant smoking rate and a high obesity rate.

Environmental factors, such as high pollution levels in industrial areas, also affect residents’ health. Despite these challenges, Louisiana is celebrated for its vibrant culture, particularly its Creole and Cajun influences, as well as its world-famous cuisine and festivals like Mardi Gras, one of many unique things to do in the state’s capital, New Orleans, which reflect its resilient spirit.

Life Expectancy Metrics in Louisiana:

8 Alabama

Life Expectancy: 72.0 years

Alabama ranks third-lowest, with a life expectancy of 72 years. Chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension are widespread due to high obesity and smoking rates. The state also ranks poorly for healthcare access and quality, with limited preventive care options.

Social factors like high poverty and unemployment contribute to these challenges, as many residents struggle to afford healthier food or medical care. Counter-intuitively, though, for those who choose to retire here, according to a new study, Alabama offers the most affordable retirement.

Life Expectancy Metrics in Alabama:

7 West Virginia

Life Expectancy: 71.0

At 71 years, West Virginia is second lowest in life expectancy rankings. The state has the highest obesity rate in the U.S., at a high rate of 23.8%, which contributes to widespread chronic health issues like heart disease and respiratory illnesses.

West Virginia also faces significant economic challenges, including low household incomes and a declining population. Limited access to healthcare in rural areas further complicates residents’ ability to manage or prevent health conditions.

Life Expectancy Metrics in West Virginia:

6 Mississippi

Life Expectancy: 70.9 years, the state with the lowest life expectancy in America

Mississippi has the lowest life expectancy in the U.S., averaging 70.9 years. The state has the second-highest rate of obesity. Combined with a high smoking rate, these factors contribute to widespread diabetes, heart disease, and other health challenges. Limited healthcare access, particularly in rural areas, exacerbates these problems.

Economic struggles also play a significant role, with Mississippi having one of the highest poverty rates in the country. Despite these challenges, the state boasts rich cultural traditions and strong community ties, which remain sources of resilience for many residents.

Life Expectancy Metrics in Mississippi:

5 New Jersey

Life Expectancy: 77.7 years

Moving on to the states with the highest life expectancies, what are they doing differently? First up is New Jersey, the state with the 5th highest life expectancy. New Jersey’s life expectancy of 77.7 years reflects the benefits of strong healthcare infrastructure and diverse economic opportunities.

Residents benefit from proximity to some of the best medical institutions in the country, including top-tier hospitals and specialists. The state’s relatively high median income also plays a role, giving many people access to healthier lifestyles and preventive care.

However, urban living in densely populated areas like Newark and Jersey City encourages more active lifestyles, with public transportation and walkable neighborhoods contributing to better heart health.

Aptly known as the Garden State, New Jersey lives up to its name with thriving community gardening initiatives promoting fresh produce and healthy eating habits.

Life Expectancy Metrics in New Jersey:

4 New York

Life Expectancy: 79.0 years

At 79.0 years, New York’s life expectancy mirrors the benefits of fast-paced city life. Walking is a way of life for many residents, especially in New York City, where people walk an average of 3–5 miles daily. Access to some of the world’s leading hospitals, such as Mount Sinai and NYU Langone, ensures top-notch healthcare for residents.

The diet also plays a role; New York’s food culture incorporates global cuisines emphasizing vegetables, lean proteins, and plant-based options. New York City is filled with top-rated restaurants every traveler must experience.

Additionally, the state has some of the lowest smoking rates in the U.S., a key factor in its longer life expectancy. Unique to New York is its commitment to public health, exemplified by policies like the ban on trans fats in restaurants.

Life Expectancy Metrics in New York:

3 Connecticut

Life Expectancy: 79.2 years

Connecticut’s average life expectancy of 79.2 years depends on its high median income and robust public health measures. The state’s low crime rates and strong emphasis on education are linked to better health outcomes and lower stress levels.

Connecticut’s residents also benefit from abundant green spaces and a focus on outdoor activities, particularly along the picturesque Long Island Sound. Programs promoting physical fitness and clean eating are well-supported in the state, and its suburban communities offer a balance of tranquility and access to healthcare.

Life Expectancy Metrics in Connecticut:

2 Massachusetts

Life Expectancy: 79.6 years

With a life expectancy of 79.6 years, Massachusetts is home to some of the world’s leading healthcare and research institutions, such as Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School. This access to cutting-edge medical care ensures that residents receive early interventions and quality treatment.

The state also has one of the highest education levels in the U.S., which correlates with better health literacy and proactive management of chronic conditions.

Massachusetts leads public health initiatives, from smoking cessation programs to subsidized health insurance through its state-wide model (a precursor to the Affordable Care Act). Interestingly, Boston’s thriving biotech sector has spurred innovations in medical treatments that benefit residents directly.

Life Expectancy Metrics in Massachusetts

1 Hawaii

Life Expectancy: 80.7 years

Hawaii has an average life expectancy of 80.7 years, thanks to a combination of lifestyle, culture, and environment. The state has one of the highest rates of centenarians in the U.S., with many residents living well into their 90s and beyond.

As such, Hawaii rivals some of the world’s blue zones that promise longer and healthier lives. This is often attributed to the “Aloha spirit,” a cultural emphasis on community, gratitude, and reduced stress.

The island diet, rich in fresh seafood, fruits, and vegetables, also plays a significant role. Hawaii’s warm climate encourages outdoor activities like swimming, hiking, and surfing, promoting cardiovascular health. Interestingly, the state’s residents report some of the lowest stress levels in the nation, and a slower pace of life likely contributes to their longevity.

Life Expectancy Metrics in Hawaii