These states show that active lifestyles, strong healthcare access, healthy diets, and a supportive community all contribute to increased life expectancy. For longer, healthier lives, focus on a balanced diet, regular physical activity, preventive healthcare, and strong social connections. Here’s a list of 20 U.S. states with the highest life expectancies, along with insights into lifestyle factors that contribute to longer lives in each state. These states often emphasize wellness, access to healthcare, and outdoor activities that encourage a healthy lifestyle.
Hawaii
Average Life Expectancy: ~81 years
Factors: Strong sense of community, healthy diet rich in fish and fresh produce, and active lifestyles.
Tip: Embrace outdoor activities like hiking and swimming to stay active and reduce stress.
Michelle Mishina Kunz
California
Average Life Expectancy: ~80 years
Factors: Access to healthcare, abundant fresh produce, and cultural emphasis on wellness.
Tip: Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables and take advantage of California’s outdoor lifestyle.
benedek/Getty Images
Minnesota
Average Life Expectancy: ~80 years
Factors: High-quality healthcare, low smoking rates, and an active population.
Tip: Incorporate regular exercise and avoid smoking to increase longevity.
Shutterstock
Connecticut
Average Life Expectancy: ~80 years
Factors: Excellent healthcare access and high levels of education, which contribute to healthier choices.
Tip: Stay informed about health topics and consider preventive care options.
iheart
Massachusetts
Average Life Expectancy: ~80 years
Factors: Strong healthcare system, low obesity rates, and an educated population.
Tip: Engage in lifelong learning and adopt healthy habits early on.
redfin
New York
Average Life Expectancy: ~80 years
Factors: Access to quality healthcare and a high level of physical activity, especially in urban areas.
Tip: Walking is a common activity in cities like New York City—aim to increase your daily steps.
Marco Bottigelli/Getty Images
Vermont
Average Life Expectancy: ~79 years
Factors: Low pollution, active outdoor culture, and high quality of life.
Tip: Make outdoor activities like hiking and skiing a regular part of your routine.
jenifoto/Getty Images
New Hampshire
Average Life Expectancy: ~79 years
Factors: Low crime rates, high levels of education, and access to healthcare.
Tip: Manage stress effectively and stay active to benefit from the state’s healthy lifestyle.
Ragged Mountain Ski Resort
Washington
Average Life Expectancy: ~79 years
Factors: Active lifestyle with outdoor activities, focus on sustainable living, and healthcare access.
Tip: Embrace Washington’s natural beauty by engaging in regular outdoor activities.
lazyllama – stock.adobe.com
Colorado
Average Life Expectancy: ~79 years
Factors: Low obesity rates and a high level of physical activity, with residents often enjoying the outdoors.
Tip: Make time for regular physical activity, especially in nature, to improve mental and physical health.
Brad McGinley Photography/Getty Images
Oregon
Average Life Expectancy: ~79 years
Factors: Emphasis on healthy food, physical activity, and environmental consciousness.
Tip: Try incorporating more plant-based foods and exercise routines into your daily life.
britannica
Utah
Average Life Expectancy: ~79 years
Factors: High physical activity, lower rates of smoking and alcohol consumption, and strong family values.
Tip: Staying active and limiting alcohol and tobacco use can boost your health and longevity.
Martin Klima/Getty Images
Rhode Island
Average Life Expectancy: ~79 years
Factors: Quality healthcare access and an educated population that practices healthy habits.
Tip: Prioritize preventive healthcare and regular exercise to maintain long-term wellness.
Redfin
Maine
Average Life Expectancy: ~78 years
Factors: Clean environment, healthy diet, and active outdoor lifestyle.
Tip: Take advantage of local produce, and incorporate walking and hiking to stay fit.
Sean Pavone/Getty Images
Wisconsin
Average Life Expectancy: ~78 years
Factors: Low levels of stress, active lifestyle, and access to healthcare.
Tip: Focus on community engagement and outdoor activities to improve overall well-being.
Redfin
New Jersey
Average Life Expectancy: ~78 years
Factors: High quality of healthcare and educated population with access to resources.
Tip: Take advantage of healthcare resources and focus on preventive care.
Redfin
Florida
Average Life Expectancy: ~78 years
Factors: Warm climate that encourages outdoor activity and a significant senior population focused on wellness.
Tip: Use the warm weather to stay active, and focus on a balanced diet.
NANCY PAUWELS/Getty Images
Virginia
Average Life Expectancy: ~78 years
Factors: High quality of healthcare and a lifestyle centered around outdoor activities.
Tip: Maintain a healthy diet and incorporate regular exercise for long-term benefits.
Redfin
Nebraska
Average Life Expectancy: ~78 years
Factors: Low crime, supportive community, and access to healthcare services.
Tip: Engage with the community, and prioritize preventive healthcare measures.
Redfin
Iowa
Average Life Expectancy: ~78 years
Factors: Low pollution, strong sense of community, and healthy lifestyle.
Tip: Focus on maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise as well as social connections.
wikipedia
