FMI and UN data show Japan leading life expectancy at 85 years, with Colombia at 78 years in 2025. Factors like healthcare access and education drive these figures. Projections suggest Colombia will reach 89 years by 2100, ranking fifth regionally.
Life expectancy varies significantly among the world's largest economies, according to Visual Capitalist data from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and United Nations (UN). Japan has the highest average at 85 years, followed by France and Italy at 84 years each. Germany and the UK reach 82 years, Canada 83 years, the US 80 years, China 79 years, Russia 74 years, and India 73 years.
In the US, the lack of universal healthcare leads to high costs of $14,855 per person, double the OECD average. China has enhanced disease prevention and medical insurance coverage. India has increased its life expectancy by 27 years since 1965, due to healthcare advances, reduced infant mortality, and improved nutrition.
Regionally, a Cepal analysis highlights trends in Latin America. In 2025, Chile leads with 82 years, while Colombia records 78 years, alongside Argentina, Cuba, Ecuador, and Peru. In 1965, Uruguay topped at 66 years, Argentina and Puerto Rico at 61 years, and Chile at just 53 years.
By 2100, Chile, Costa Rica, and Puerto Rico are projected at 91 years, Panama at 90 years, and Colombia at 89 years, tying for fifth with Cuba and Uruguay. Argentina, Ecuador, and Peru would reach 88 years. These gains underscore the role of public health improvements and socioeconomic conditions.
