San Diego County residents are living slightly longer than the national and state averages, with a life expectancy of 81.5 years, according to data released Thursday by the county’s Community Health Statistics Unit.
The figure represents a continuation of long-term improvements in health outcomes within the county and is an increase from the previous year’s data. Nationally, average life expectancy is 79 years, while California’s average is 81.2 years, the county reported.
The data reveals persistent disparities within the county. Women, on average, live longer than men, with an average life expectancy of 84 years compared to 79 years for men. Significant differences also exist across racial and ethnic groups. Asian residents have the longest life expectancy at 87.6 years, while Black residents have the shortest, at 75.2 years.
“These numbers represent our region and our many subcommunities throughout San Diego,” said Dr. Sayone Thihalolipavan, the county public health officer. “While life expectancy increasing is a trend in the right direction, we continue to see significant disparities across the county by geography, sex, race or ethnicity.”
Life expectancy varies considerably depending on where residents live within the county. Coronado boasts the highest average life expectancy at 87.2 years, while Lemon Grove records the lowest at 78.7 years.
Cancer remains the leading cause of death in San Diego County, followed by heart disease, stroke, and Alzheimer’s Disease. The county noted a decline in overdose deaths contributed to stroke moving into the number-three position among causes of death, according to the released data. The County of San Diego is currently operating an Overdose Surveillance Response Program, according to a recent announcement.
Detailed breakdowns of the data, categorized by age, race, sex, and geographic region, are available through an interactive dashboard provided by the county.
“County Public Health continues working to reduce disparities through prevention, education and community partnership with the goal of building healthier, safer communities for all,” a county statement reads.
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