Life expectancy tells us the average number of years of life a person who has attained a given age can expect to live.
Life expectancy estimates from the National Center for Health Statistics provide a reliable snapshot of population health and mortality in the United States.
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National life expectancy estimates are calculated using period (current) life tables. Life tables are used to measure mortality, survivorship, and the life expectancy of a population at varying ages.
Period life tables estimate how many more years a group of people who are currently at a particular age – any age from birth to 100 or more – can expect to live if the mortality patterns in a given year remain the same over the rest of their lives. Life tables can also be used to compare how life expectancy has improved or declined over time.
National-level life tables are released annually, as well as every 10 years (decennially) around the U.S. population census.
Did you know that life expectancy varies by neighborhood?
Estimates for Life Expectancy at birth are now available nationwide for virtually every community in America.
Explore our new interactive map to see estimates for your area and compare with others across the country.
