Life expectancy serves as a vital gauge of a city’s holistic well-being, influenced by factors like healthcare access, lifestyle habits, and socio-economic conditions.
Despite strides in healthcare and living conditions, specific US cities grapple with considerable hurdles, resulting in diminished life expectancies compared to their counterparts.
This article sheds light on 20 American cities with the lowest life expectancies, drawing from a study conducted by Money Geek. The analysis scrutinized life expectancy data across 118 major metropolitan areas in the US, with a particular focus on those boasting populations exceeding 250,000. The study drew its data from County Health Rankings.
Jackson, Mississippi
In Jackson, Mississippi, the high rates of obesity and diabetes are major health concerns for many people living there. Access to healthcare is limited, which makes dealing with these health issues even more difficult. Also, economic differences in the community mean that not everyone can get medical help when they need it, leading to a shorter lifespan for people in Jackson.
Average life expectancy: 74.4
Mobile, Alabama
In Mobile, Alabama, there are problems with both money and healthcare that make public health worse. Heart disease and stroke are common, and many folks don’t have the chance to get preventive care or learn about staying healthy. This makes the health situation in Mobile complicated.
Average life expectancy: 74.4
Birmingham-Hoover, Alabama
In the Birmingham-Hoover area of Alabama, there’s a big problem with diseases like heart issues that stick around for a long time. The differences in people’s incomes and opportunities make it harder for everyone to stay healthy and live as long as they should. Plus, there aren’t enough places for people to get medical help, which makes it tough to prevent sickness.
Average life expectancy: 74.6
Montgomery, Alabama
In Montgomery, Alabama, the differences in how much money people have and the access they have to healthcare lead to health issues. Lots of folks there have diabetes, and it’s hard to get the right kind of medical care. These things add up to a lower life expectancy for people living in Montgomery.
Average life expectancy: 74.7
Beaumont-Port Arthur, Texas
In Beaumont-Port Arthur, Texas, the presence of industrial pollution is causing serious harm to both the air quality and the health of the public. Diseases like lung cancer and respiratory issues are widespread concerns. Unfortunately, many people in this area don’t have access to the healthcare they need, which means they’re not getting essential treatments. These environmental and healthcare problems are taking a toll on how long people in the region can expect to live.
Average life expectancy: 75.2
Memphis, Tennessee
In Memphis, Tennessee, there are significant challenges related to money and social issues that are directly tied to differences in health. Obesity and high blood pressure are big problems here. Plus, not everyone has the same chances to get good healthcare, which makes these issues even worse. All of these factors together mean that people in Memphis aren’t living as long as they could.
Average life expectancy: 75.5
Knoxville, Tennessee
In Knoxville, Tennessee, substance abuse is a major problem that’s affecting public health. Heart disease is also a big concern in the city. On top of that, there are differences in who can get healthcare, which makes it harder for everyone to stay healthy. Because of these crises happening at once, people in Knoxville aren’t living as long as they should.
Average life expectancy: 75.5
Amarillo, Texas
In Amarillo, Texas, the city is actively addressing various public health issues, which include battling against obesity and chronic illnesses. Additionally, environmental factors, such as air quality, are impacting the overall health of the population. Disparities in accessing healthcare services further contribute to the city’s relatively lower life expectancy compared to other areas. To combat these challenges effectively, specific and targeted interventions along with policy implementations are deemed necessary.
Average life expectancy: 76.3
Lafayette, Louisiana
In Lafayette, Louisiana, the community is confronting health challenges primarily stemming from lifestyle factors, notably high rates of obesity. Disparities in healthcare access pose obstacles to managing chronic conditions among residents. Moreover, socio-economic differences significantly influence health outcomes, collectively leading to Lafayette’s decreased life expectancy.
Average life expectancy: 76.4
Shreveport-Bossier City, Louisiana
Shreveport-Bossier City, Louisiana, faces significant health disparities and a prevalence of chronic diseases. Limited availability of healthcare services exacerbates these existing health challenges. Socio-economic factors play a crucial role in determining residents’ health outcomes and life expectancy. Addressing these critical issues is imperative for improving community health in the region.
Average life expectancy: 76.4
Tulsa, Oklahoma
Tulsa, Oklahoma, grapples with multifaceted health challenges, including heart disease and diabetes. Socio-economic disparities create barriers to healthcare access for many individuals. Environmental pollution further compounds public health issues in the area. Implementing comprehensive strategies is vital to effectively address Tulsa’s complex health concerns and improve overall well-being.
Average life expectancy: 76.4
