Have you ever wondered about the secret to reaching a ripe old age? Discovering the key to a long and fulfilling life has long intrigued humanity. Surprisingly, it turns out that the country you call home plays a significant role in determining your lifespan! The countries that offer the best quality of life to their people in terms of socio-economic conditions, public health initiatives, and access to good healthcare tend to cultivate longer and healthier lives for their citizens. By providing a high quality of life, these nations create an environment conducive to longevity and well-being. If you want to know where people have the highest life expectancy, look no further than Top 10s Only’s compilation of the Top 10 Countries With The Highest Life Expectancy. But before that, here’s a peek into the factors that affect human population growth and higher life expectancy.
What Are The Factors Influencing High Life Expectancy?
There are many factors at the population level and at the individual level that contribute to high life expectancy. As we gear up to celebrate World Population Day on June 11, let us understand some of the factors that increase the chances of a higher life expectancy.
- Socioeconomic Status
Occupation, education, and income are correlated with an increased lifespan. Higher socioeconomic status means healthier and better living conditions, which contribute to a country’s as well as an individual’s increased lifespan.
- Access To Medical Advances
Having better access to advanced medical technology and quality healthcare plays a significant role in having a longer life. This includes the management of chronic illnesses, disease prevention, vaccinations, etc., which raise the country’s life expectancy.
- Quality Education
Education gives people better income and employment opportunities, which in turn promote health literacy and lifestyle.
- Public Health Initiatives
Effective measures implemented in public health, which include prevention initiatives, disease management, and campaigns on health education, result in an overall improvement in the public health of a country.
- Social Support
Having strong family and community support is linked to better health outcomes and a higher life expectancy. On the other hand, social isolation hurts health and reduces life expectancy.
List of Top 10 Countries with the Highest Life Expectancy
Life expectancy is an important measure of a country’s overall health and well-being. It is the number of years a person can expect to live if the prevailing pattern of mortality rates specific to age continues to remain the same. Here is a list of the top 10 highest life expectancy countries.
1. Monaco (Principality of Monaco)
Did you know that Monaco, a small country embraced by France on three sides and the Mediterranean Sea on the fourth, is not only renowned for its urban charm and status as a tourist hotspot but also boasts one of the highest life expectancies among the top 10 countries? This captivating destination touts not only luxurious yachts, upmarket casinos, and the renowned annual Grand Prix but also a population that enjoys a remarkably long and fulfilling life.
Total Population
The country has an approximate population of 36,298 people.
Life Expectancy (Males & Females)
87.01 years
Female Life Expectancy
88.99 years
Male Life Expectancy
85.17 years
Education
Monaco’s education system orders compulsory education for children between the ages of 6 and 16. The education system has an international focus and follows a French Curriculum. The schools benefit from the stable economy of the country, and the system is highly efficient and geared towards creating a solid workforce. A good education has positively affected health choices and consequently contributed to a healthy standard of life.
Standard Of Living
Monaco has a high standard of living, and the living conditions are unparalleled. There is no poverty in this country due to low unemployment, political stability, and government assistance programs.
Lifestyle
They have a high per capita income and lead extremely prosperous lives, which has a great effect on life expectancy. One of the things that is attributed to this is they follow one of the healthiest diets, the Mediterranean diet.
Healthcare And Medical Technology
A Monaco worker pays for public healthcare via contributions to Caisses Sociales de Monaco (Monaco Social Funds). So a major part of the medical costs is reimbursed back to the contributor. Also, the country has a high number of doctors, and there is abundant funding for health care. There are excellent healthcare facilities, as seen in the high life expectancy of the country.
2. Hong Kong
Hong Kong was a British colony until 1997, after which it became a Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China. It follows the principle of ‘One County, Two Systems’, where China has granted autonomy to preserve Hong Kong’s social and economic status, but Beijing has power over the political system. While Hong Kong is known for its skyscrapers and densely populated streets, this Urban oasis is also known as one of the highest life expectancy countries in the world.
Total population
The country has a population of 7,491,608
Life Expectancy (Males & Females)
85.83 years
Female Life Expectancy
88.66
Male Life Expectancy
83
Education
Education in Hong Kong is compulsory and free in primary and junior-level schools. They follow a ranking system that is rigorous and its students have ranked at the top. Hong Kong students fare very well compared to other countries. The people enjoy a high level of literacy which has translated to good health and nutrition education and choices.
Standard of Living
Hong Kong being the financial centre of the world, has a high standard of living. There is free trade and the taxation rates are low. Also, there is better job satisfaction and security along with higher salaries so the place offers a high quality of life.
Lifestyle
The people of Hong Kong have adopted a healthy lifestyle and they are always on the move as the place is full of busy people. Additionally, they follow a traditional diet which is Cantonese food. It is traditionally less oily, light and very nourishing and healthy.
Healthcare And Medical Technology
Hong Kong offers universal healthcare and no one is denied healthcare even if they are no means to pay. They used advanced medical technology in their healthcare facilities. Plus they have many hospitals and clinics that are accessible to the general population. Also, many use traditional Chinese medicine which is known to be effective in improving health and longevity. It is one of the best high life expectancy countries with universal health care.
3. Macau
Like Hong Kong, Macau is a Special Administrative Region of China that works under the principle of ‘One Country, Two Systems’. It has autonomy in economic activities and is a wealthy region. Also called Macao, it is popular as Las Vegas in Asia, and the people lead a secure and stable life and have a long life span becoming one of the top 10 highest life expectancy countries.
Total population
The country has a population of 704,150
Life Expectancy (Males & Females)
85.51 years
Female Life Expectancy
88.11
Male Life Expectancy
82.88
Education
Chinese culture traditionally give education great importance as it is believed to be a means of improving the individual’s career and worth. The same applies to the people of Macau who pay great attention to education and professional development which has helped them in gaining a better socioeconomic status. Education and high level of literacy has lead to god nutrition literacy which shows through high longevity.
Standard of Living
Macau is close to Hong Kong and is among the richest places in the works. The per capita GDP by purchasing power is one of the highest in the world. Macau’s economy too is very good and that has resulted in a high quality of life. They have well-developed manufacturing, transportation, construction, media and other businesses. Also, Macau seniors get government subsidies and hence can live longer with no financial stress.
Lifestyle
Macau is a unique blend of Western and Oriental influences and that has given rise to a hybrid culture. It is a commercialized city but they follow the Chinese culture of family integrity. The food they have contributes greatly to their increased lifespan which is a mix of Mediterranean and Portuguese.
Healthcare And Medical Technology
Macau provides a comprehensive healthcare policy where people over the age of 65 years get free medical services. Additionally, Macau permanent residents get consultations, cancer screenings, vaccinations, etc free and also have access to good medication. That has helped improve the longevity of people.
4. Japan
Japan, an island nation of East Asia is located in the Northwest Pacific Ocean and is bordered by the Sea of Japan. It is one of the most densely populated countries in the work with a highly urbanized population. It is a country that has long been known to have people with a long life span. Japan’s highest life expectancy is due to fewer deaths from chronic diseases.
Total population
The country has a population of 123294.513 million people.
Life Expectancy (Males & Females)
84.95 years
Female Life Expectancy
87.97
Male Life Expectancy
81.91
Education
The education system in Japan is known for its high quality and excellence. It is popular for its strong focus on disciple and respect and exacting standards. It is designed in such a way that it helps the students succeed not just academically but professionally too. There is a high enrolment rate in primary as well as upper secondary education which results in better socio-economic conditions of the people which reflects in their good health and long life.
Standard of Living
Japan is one of the most developed and largest economies in the world but yet it is top ten countries with the largest population and high life expectancy. It has an industrious workforce and a well-educated affluent population. The country enjoys a high standard of living with economic reforms aimed to make the economy more flexible and open. All this means that they are more educated about health and well-being helping in better life expectancy rates.
Lifestyle
When it comes to the lifestyle they follow the principle of “hara hachi bu”. This means eating only for 80% of your capacity. This is thought to children from their childhood. Plus they consume a healthy diet of plant and fish foods. The low mortality is also due to low obesity rates which is a major contributor to chronic diseases.
Healthcare And Medical Technology
Japanese government offers universal health coverage through Employee Health Insurance and Community Health Insurance. Additionally, they have the best healthcare system with the latest technology and are subsidized. They have a robust social security system where every individual contributes for the benefit of all citizens irrespective of status and age thus improving the life expectancy.
5. Liechtenstein
Liechtenstein is a German-speaking country situated in the Alps. It is a double landlocked country and is between Switzerland and Austria. It is among the smallest countries in Europe with a sparse population where the life span of adults is high.
Total population
The country has a population of 39,584 people.
Life Expectancy (Males & Females)
84.77 years
Female Life Expectancy
86.23
Male Life Expectancy
83.16
Education
Liechtenstein follows an education system that is similar to that of Switzerland where primary schooling is compulsory and free. The population of Liechtenstein is 100% literate and their education system is ranked highly in the world index. This is one of the major factors for their high life span as they can make educated health decisions.
Standard of Living
Liechtenstein is a capitalist economy and is trustworthy and safe for business. That is the reason it has one of the highest GDPs in Europe and is a prosperous country. The country has a low employment rate and high salaries, so the standard of living among the general population is high which makes health care highly accessible. Social welfare provides for education and healthcare which has lead to an increased life span.
Lifestyle
The country has a less population and hence they have a close-knit community. The Alpine mountains make for a great backdrop and people are more into outdoor activities like mountain biking, skiing, hiking, etc which makes helps them lead an active life which is one of the factors for their better life expectancy.
Healthcare And Medical Technology
Liechtenstein offers universal healthcare to its people and is decentralized. Every person living in the country is mandated to have health insurance. Employers must register their staff for health insurance and both the employer and employee contribute to the health funds. Even the basic plan covers all major treatments and is valid in neighbouring countries like Austria and Switzerland. The doctors too are well-trained and emergency care even for the uninsured is free. All these factors contribute to their high lifespan.
6. Switzerland
Switzerland is a country in Central Europe that houses the mountains of the Alps, numerous lakes and villages. The Swiss bank, Swiss cheese and their chocolates are popular but what is also well-known is that the average Swiss lives longer than other people in the world. Why does this country have the highest life expectancy? Scroll down to know.
Total population
The country has a population of 8,796,669 people.
Life Expectancy (Males & Females)
84.38 years
Female Life Expectancy
86.05
Male Life Expectancy
82.63
Education
Switzerland is a country that is well-known for higher education and public education is free. The parents receive discounts on after-school and daycare due to which there is sustained progress in academics. Children, until they attain the age of 15, should get compulsory education. Most students go to public schools which are free and that brings people from different backgrounds together. Having a good educational background helps in better socio-economic status and thus people enjoy a higher lifespan.
Standard of Living
Switzerland is an economically prosperous country where the people have a good social security and also have ample job opportunities with high income. They enjoy a high quality of life and have a great work-life balance and life satisfaction which improves mental and physical health leading to better life expectancy.
Lifestyle
The Swiss enjoy a healthy lifestyle and their diet is one of the healthiest in the world. Also, they have access to fresh produce, clean air and drinking water which helps in maintaining good health. Plus they have a low obesity rate as most people are into outdoor activities like skiing which keeps them physically active.
Healthcare And Medical Technology
Switzerland’s healthcare system is one of the best in the world. It is a universal healthcare system that is decentralized. Though not free, people have to pay for their health insurance but it is regulated by the government. The country is known for its medical advancements, research in new treatments and houses some famous pharma and healthcare groups. These factors have helped Swiss people live longer than people from most other countries.
7. Singapore
Singapore, also popular as Lion City, is an island nation that is one of the smallest countries in South East Asia. It is a densely populated country and is a global centre for finance. The city is known as a shopper’s paradise, is clean, and is one of the famous tourist destinations. The population of this place is one of the wealthiest, and the ageing people are seeing a growth in their life expectancy.
Total population
The country has a population of 6,014,723 people.
Life Expectancy (Males & Females)
84.27 years
Female Life Expectancy
86.42
Male Life Expectancy
82.13
Education
The education system in Singapore is one of the best in the world. Primary schooling for kids is free and high education can be pursued at subsidised fees. The core focus of education is the personal and professional growth of the student. There is a 100% enrolment rate in primary education. That has helped improve the socio-economic conditions of the country.
Standard of Living
The Singapore economy is highly developed and is pro-business with low tax rates. It has a high GDP by purchasing power parity and is a high-income economy. They have a high quality of living because of good infrastructure, safety, a clean environment and a modern culture. These factors contribute greatly to the high lifespan people enjoy.
Lifestyle
Singaporeans despite having a wide array of choices in terms of cuisine have a high level of nutrition literacy. So they eat healthily and exercise more and that reflects in their health and life expectancy.
Healthcare And Medical Technology
The country’s life expectancy is high as it has one of the most efficient and successful healthcare in the world. The system is publicly funded and run by the government and financing is done in various ways like government subsidies, national healthcare, insurance and more. The country spends a major part of its GDP on R&D in health and medicines. Though not free, people have access to the latest advancements in medical care as well as better nutrition, reduced risk of diseases and helping the ageing population.
8. Italy
Italy is a country in the South of Europe and is a boat-shaped peninsula. It is completely surrounded by sea and the mountains divide the interiors into various regions. For many years now their lifestyle and diet have been attributed to them having a long lifespan when compared to other developed countries like the USA.
Total population
The country has a population of 58,870,762 people.
Life Expectancy (Males & Females)
84.20 years
Female Life Expectancy
86.13
Male Life Expectancy
82.15
Education
Education is free to all Italian residents, and they follow a Bologna process which is an agreement between countries in Europe to have comparable quality and standards in higher education. Italians have a great history of being the centre of intellectuals and thinkers in many fields and that has resulted in better socio-economic conditions and higher life expectancy due to being well-informed in matters of health and nutrition.
Standard of Living
Italians have a high standard of living compared to other countries. The level of public services includes education, transportation, etc and it has cultural scenes that are vibrant. The country is beautiful and maintained so which makes the living standards high.
Lifestyle
The traditional diet of Italy is which is a Mediterranean diet is said to be one of the healthiest and is said to have many benefits. Also, Italians lead a very active lifestyle which promotes overall good health. There is a strong focus on community and social connections engaging in spending time with friends and family which can be factors for their higher lifespan.
Healthcare And Medical Technology
Italy follows a universal healthcare system called Servizio Santitario Nazionale (SSN) and it is low-cost or free for the residents. Irrespective of employment status and income, all residents have access to comprehensive healthcare services. Also, Italy lays a strong focus on research and development in the medical field and has made great progress in advanced medical technologies. All this coupled with their diet and active lifestyle have contributed to their high life expectancy.
9. Republic of Korea
The Republic of Korea popularly known as South Korea is an East Asian country. It is surrounded by the Sea of Japan and the Yellow Sea and shares the borders with North Korea. While the people of South Korea are known for their innovation and technology, they have consistently seen a long life expectancy much more than the global average.
Total population
The country has a population of 51,784,059 people.
Life Expectancy (Males & Females)
84.14 years
Female Life Expectancy
87.23
Male Life Expectancy
80.83
Education
South Korean value education very highly and the country has a high quality of education. The students score high in international assessments. There is a high level of enrolment in primary as well as upper secondary education and that has contributed to the growth of well-educated Koreans. Good education is one of the factors in their high life span as they have a good health literacy which impacts longevity.
Standard of Living
South Koreans enjoy a high standard of living due to access to a highly developed infrastructure, good public utilities, well-maintained roads and more. South Korea has a steady economic growth due to which the income levels are high. The crime rate is low and hence it is a safe country to live in.
Lifestyle
South Koreans follow a healthy lifestyle which includes staying physically active. Traditional South Korean food is said to be highly beneficial for health as it makes for a diverse intake of nutrients. They lay emphasis on outdoor activities, enjoying nature and following good hygiene practices which have resulted in good longevity.
Healthcare And Medical Technology
South Korea offers universal and comprehensive healthcare to its citizens. They have a National Health Insurance Program which is a mandatory Social Insurance System which funds the healthcare services. The country is known for providing high-quality care and services and has advanced medical technology. The healthcare professionals are well-trained and work in a modern setup of specialised hospitals which contributes to the higher lifespan of its population.
10. Spain
Spain is a Southwestern European country that is on the Iberian Peninsula. It shares its borders with France to the North, the Mediterranean Sea coastline with Morocco and Italy and Portugal to the west. The country is famous for its beautiful coastline and its diverse geography. Spaniards enjoy a high average life expectancy compared to the global average.
Total population
The country has a population of 47,519,628 people.
Life Expectancy (Males & Females)
84.05 years
Female Life Expectancy
86.68
Male Life Expectancy
81.35
Education
Spain follows a decentralized education system and there is free and compulsory education for children between 6 and 16 years of age. Secondary education in the country is also compulsory and covers ages 12 to 16. Because of all these measures, the country has a high literacy rate. There is also an increase in those doing tertiary education which has resulted in better socio-economic status. Spaniards have a high health and nutrition literacy which can be a factor in higher longevity.
Standard of Living
Spain gives a good quality of life to its residents by providing various housing options, a well-developed infrastructure with efficient public transport, modern transportation and access to all amenities of life. They have a good work-life balance with an emphasis on family life and leisure. The country has many public welfare programs which support families with economic challenges. They also provide social assistance and unemployment benefits to provide a good standard of living to its residents.
Lifestyle
Spain’s cuisine follows a Mediterranean diet with an emphasis on fresh fruits, vegetables etc that benefits good health. They have an active lifestyle and like to inculcate outdoor activities in their daily routine. Also, the regional folk dances and other traditional activities like Flamenco dancing is a physical and cultural outlet that contributes to their fitness greatly which in turn improves their life span.
Healthcare And Medical Technology
Spain has a healthcare system that is well-developed, affordable and offers comprehensive healthcare services. They have a universal healthcare system where all the citizen is covered and is funded by taxes, employee and employer contributions. The hospital is well-equipped and the healthcare workforce is well-trained. Spanish hospitals use advanced medical technology for diagnosis and treatment which has helped keep Spaniards healthy and live longer than the global average.
Conclusion
So the above is the list of the Top 10 countries with the highest life expectancy. If you have yet to notice, the United States, the UK and many other developed countries are not on the list. This shows that wealth is not the only factor that influences life expectancy. The countries with the best life expectancy are those that promote a healthy lifestyle and address social issues related to health. That is one of the major contributors that can help people live healthier and longer lives.
FAQs
- Which country has the highest life expectancy?
Monaco, a small country which shares its borders with France has the highest life expectancy.
- What factors contribute to these countries having high life expectancies?
Good public health initiatives, education, access to a good healthcare system, quality education, a high standard of living and following a healthy lifestyle are some of the factors that contribute to high life expectancies.
- Are there any common trends or similarities among these countries?
Access to good quality healthcare, public health initiative
- What are the top 10 countries with the highest life expectancy?
Monaco, Hong Kong, Macao, Japan, Liechtenstein, Switzerland, Singapore, Italy, the Republic of Korea, and Spain are the top 10 countries with the highest life expectancy.
- Which are the healthiest countries in the world?
Monaco, Hong Kong, Macao, Japan, Liechtenstein, Switzerland, and Singapore are some of the healthiest countries in the world.
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