Women in the United States continue to live significantly longer than men, but the gap is narrowing. According to new analysis of CDC data by J. Price McNamara, women live an average of 81.1 years, compared to 75.8 years for men — a difference of 5.3 years.
This longevity divide is smaller than in previous years, signaling shifting health patterns across the country.
Why the Gender Gap Exists
The leading causes of death — heart disease, cancer, and accidents — disproportionately affect men. In 2023, 457 men per 100,000 people died from these causes compared to 289 women. Men are also nearly four times more likely to die by suicide, and twice as likely to die from accidents or Parkinson’s disease. Alzheimer’s is the only major cause of death where female mortality is higher.
Lifestyle behaviors also play a role. Men smoke and drink more, binge drink at higher rates, and are less likely to seek medical or mental health care. These factors contribute to their shorter lifespans.
Even after retirement, women hold a survival advantage: at age 65, women typically live 2.7 years longer than men, something crucial for retirement and healthcare planning.
Race, Ethnicity, and Longevity
Race and ethnicity strongly influence life expectancy. Non-Hispanic Asians top the list at 84.4 years, with women averaging 86.3. At the other end, American Indian and Alaska Native non-Hispanic populations have the lowest life expectancy at 67.8 years, with men living just 64.5.
Diet, culture, and health behaviors explain much of the difference. For example, Asian diets rich in plant-based foods, fish, and low processed content contribute to longer lives. Hispanic populations benefit from lower smoking rates and stronger family structures.
By contrast, non-Hispanic White and Black communities experience higher levels of cancer, heart disease, obesity, and high blood pressure. American Indian and Alaska Native populations face additional challenges, including high rates of diabetes, substance abuse, and suicide.
State-by-State Differences
Where you live also matters. Life expectancy is highest in Hawaii (79.9 years) and lowest in Mississippi (70.9 years). States in the South generally see shorter lives due to higher poverty, less healthcare access, poor diets, and higher rates of smoking, drinking, and violence.
The gender gap itself varies by state. Utah shows the smallest difference (3.9 years), while New Mexico has the largest (7.6 years).
Covid-19 and Other Shifts
The pandemic temporarily reduced U.S. life expectancy. In 2020, men lost an average of 2.8 years, while women lost 2.1. Yet by 2022, both sexes had regained most of this loss, with life expectancy stabilizing around pre-pandemic levels.
However, experts warn that lifestyle-related issues — poor diets, sedentary habits, substance abuse, and suicide — now weigh more heavily on national mortality than Covid itself.
Closing the Gap
While women still outlive men everywhere, the margin is narrowing. Rising suicide rates among male teenagers — up 56% between 2014 and 2024 — could impact future life expectancy trends. At the same time, men have made gains in recovering longevity post-Covid faster than women.
The good news: individuals can take action. The British Journal of Sports Medicine estimates Americans over 40 can add up to 5.3 years of life through regular exercise.
Conclusion
The analysis by J. Price McNamara underscores that while women continue to live longer, the gender gap is shrinking due to changing health patterns, lifestyle behaviors, and systemic challenges. Understanding these differences can help shape better healthcare strategies, retirement planning, and public policy nationwide.
