U.S. life expectancy rises as overdose and COVID-19 deaths decline
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Life expectancy in the U.S. reached a record high in 2024, largely driven by a decline in deaths related to drug overdoses and COVID-19. Public health improvements, expanded access to treatment, and reduced pandemic-related mortality contributed to this increase. The trend reflects progress in addressing major causes of death, although experts note that continued efforts are needed to sustain these improvements and address other health disparities.
Source
Xu JQ, Murphy SL, Kochanek KD, Arias E. Mortality in the United States, 2024. NCHS Data Brief. 2026 Jan;(548):1−14. DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.15620/cdc/174641
Additional Reading
https://www.cnn.com/2026/01/29/health/life-expectancy-mortality-rate-death