12 Places in the World Where People Live the Longest According to a New Report

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The world’s ‘Blue Zones’ are the places where people live the longest. From diet and exercise to strong communities, the people who call these places home will be around for a long time.

From the shores of the Mediterranean to the coast of Japan, some regions of the world live longer than the rest. Longevity is largely determined by factors such as diet, lifestyle, and genetics.

Even though many countries have access to modern healthcare and growing economies, some areas are healthier than others. According to a recent United Nations World Population Prospects report that averages the life expectancy from birth of men and women, these are the 12 places in the world where people live the longest.

Monaco

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Monaco may be the second smallest country in the world, but its people live long lives. The average life expectancy for people living in Monaco is around 89 years old.

The tiny nation is located on the Mediterranean Sea, close to France and Italy. People stay fit and healthy and enjoy a typical Mediterranean diet of vegetables, nuts, fish, and fruit.

People also like to exercise, hike, swim, and do other activities that keep them active and outdoors. Like many other long-living societies, people here take their time and enjoy the company of others, a common thread in the places with the highest longevity.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong comes in second place, with a life expectancy of nearly 86 years. People in the small Special Administrative Region of China have a vegetable-based diet with plenty of diversity in ingredients and flavors.

Besides a healthy diet, the city’s culture revolves around socializing and eating with family and friends. Large restaurants hold vast groups of people who laugh, talk, and eat together.

The island has an advanced healthcare system and has access to a high number of doctors and healthcare workers. Even still, many people walk to work and remain active throughout the day.

Read also: World’s Friendliest Nations

Macau

Macau is another Special Administrative Region of China and has the third highest life expectancy in the world. The average life expectancy of people residing in Macau is close to 86 years.

With a healthy cuisine, great economy and healthcare, and community-focused culture, the tiny region far outlives the global average. Men can live to close to 83 years, while women live on average over 88 years.

Although genetics may play a role, Macau is a very social place. Like its neighbor Hong Kong, its residents enjoy large communal meals and a jam-packed schedule full of social activities. Add in its incredible education system, and you have a long-living nation.

Japan

Japan has the fourth longest-living population, averaging around 85 years. Given the country’s diet of fish and vegetable-based meals and great healthcare, it’s easy to see why.

The island nation enjoys a booming economy, and its citizens have some of the best healthcare in the world. Early treatments and a culture built on caring for the sick and elderly help people live through chronic diseases.

Although the country has a reputation for long work hours, many people still prioritize family and community. Communal meals and activities help keep people bonded. Even companies and government offices have routine social activities, including after-work parties and events.

Liechtenstein

Liechtenstein is a small nation in Western Europe. It is also one of the longest-living countries on earth, with people living up to 85 years, far above most of its neighbors.

The country has a high income and an excellent economy. Health care is reliable, free, and high-quality. Plus, it is one of the most active places in Europe, with many people choosing to walk to work.

Another factor in the tiny nation’s longevity is its environment. The country enjoys clean air and high-quality produce. Many people also get to enjoy their time outside of work in nature, which keeps them fit and reduces stress.

Switzerland

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Switzerland is the sixth longest-living country on earth, with an average life expectancy of 84 years. Even with all the rich cheeses in their diets, the Swiss know how to count the years.

The small inland country enjoys one of the best healthcare systems on the planet and is also one of the fittest countries. People have recreational access to mountains, rivers, and lakes, and many choose to walk or bike to work.

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Another factor in the Swiss’s longevity success is their sense of community. And maybe, just maybe, chocolate plays a big part in this, too. We all can hope.

Singapore

According to the UN report, Singapore comes in seventh. On average, people live to around 84 years.

The country has one of the most advanced healthcare systems in the world. It also has a strong economy and very little poverty. Most people can get the necessary treatments without going through hoops or paying for an arm and a leg.

The small island country has many parks, outdoor exercise stations, and community sports events. On top of the physical activity, most people get daily, Singapore has a diverse mixture of veggy-heavy cuisines from Chinese and Malay to Indian.

Italy

Italy is another Mediterranean country with a long-lived population. The national average is around 84 years. Pasta aside, Italian food is full of vegetables, olives, and rich olive oil. Plus, ingredients are usually fresh and often picked straight from the garden, even in big cities.

The country is highly communal, with family dinners and many social activities. Towns, villages, and even cities have rich traditions that bring people together.

In addition to the diet and social lives of everyday Italians, the country enjoys good healthcare and a mild climate perfect for outdoor activities. Even with all the delicious food and wine, Italy knows how to stay healthy and alive.

South Korea

South Korea’s average life expectancy is 84 years. Women generally live to around 87, and men 81.

The country has excellent healthcare and prioritizes healthy eating and fitness. People, especially older people, love participating in outdoor exercise such as hiking and skiing with their friends and family.

The country also has a vegetable-based diet. Kimchi, garlic, ginger, leafy green vegetables, and fruits make up a considerable portion of the diet. Even the mouth-watering Korean BBQ consists of thin slices of beef or pork wrapped in layers of aromatic greens and kimchi.

Canada

Canada’s average life expectancy is around 84 years, putting it in 10th place. It has good healthcare and access to healthy cuisine, aside from poutine, of course.

Many Canadians have an outdoor lifestyle and prioritize staying fit. It also has plenty of outdoor spaces such as mountains, lakes, rivers, and parks where people can exercise and enjoy clean air.

The country has a developed economy and plentiful jobs. Unlike its neighbor to the south, people don’t worry as much about paying for hospital visits or medications, eliminating a good portion of unnecessary daily stress.

Iceland

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Iceland also has a life expectancy of around 84 years, putting it near the top ten. The country has a world-class healthcare system and a small population to take care of.

Winters are brutally cold and have lots of snow, but many people have ways to cope, which involve staying outside and spending time with people. From soaking in hot springs to hiking and skiing, people stay active and fit.

With a great economy and resources, most people can get the healthy food, money, and attention they need, especially near the cities and towns. On top of all this, the country is stunningly beautiful even in the depths of winter, which helps keep people’s moods up.

Malta

Malta is another small country in the Mediterranean with a long-living population. On average, people live close to 84 years, and for many reasons.

Like its neighbors, the country enjoys a warm and sunny climate and a diet high in vegetables, fish, nuts, and fresh fruit. Its culture prioritizes communal eating and spending long hours with friends and family.

Because of the terrain and pleasant weather, many people hike, bike, or walk to work or work on boats. Beach culture is alive and well on the island, giving its population everything they need for a long and stellar life.