Coastal Living Linked to Longer Lifespans, But Not All “Blue Spaces” Are Equal

New research reveals that proximity to oceans and gulfs correlates with increased longevity, while living near inland bodies of water, especially in urban settings, may have the opposite effect.

Ohio State University researchers have unearthed a fascinating correlation between where Americans live and how long they live, with a significant distinction emerging between coastal dwellers and those residing near inland lakes and rivers.The study, which analyzed population data from over 66,000 U.S. census tracts, found that individuals living within 30 miles of an ocean or gulf tend to enjoy longer lifespans. Conversely, urban residents living near inland bodies of water larger than four square miles may experience a shorter life expectancy.

“coastal residents lived a year or more longer than the average of 79 years, and those who lived in more urban areas near interior rivers and lakes died at about 78 years,” stated Jianyong “Jamie” Wu, the principal researcher. “Coastal residents likely live longer due to various intertwined factors.”

The study, published in the journal Environmental Research, suggests a multitude of reasons for this disparity. Coastal living may offer benefits such as milder temperatures, improved air quality, greater opportunities for leisure activities, enhanced transportation networks, reduced susceptibility to drought, and higher incomes. These factors, when combined, coudl contribute to a more favorable outlook for those near the coast.

However, the picture changes for those living near inland waters, especially in urban environments. The research points to potential detriments like pollution, poverty, limited safe spaces for physical activity, and an increased risk of flooding as contributors to the observed differences in life expectancy.

A critical finding highlighted by the researchers is the significant difference in temperature. Coastal areas generally experience fewer hot days and lower maximum temperatures compared to inland water regions. This climatic advantage could play a substantial role in the observed health benefits.

Previous studies have already established a link between living near water and improved health markers, including higher levels of physical activity, lower rates of obesity, and better cardiovascular health. This prompted Wu to investigate the broader concept of “blue space” living and its impact on longevity,and crucially,how this relationship might differ based on the type of water body.

“We thought it was possible that any type of ‘blue space’ offered beneficial effects, and we were surprised to find such an crucial and clear difference between those who live near coastal waters and those who live near interior waters,” explained Wu, an assistant professor of environmental health sciences at Ohio State University’s College of Public Health. “We have found a clear difference – in coastal areas, people live longer.” Wu emphasized that this study is the frist to comprehensively and systematically examine the relationship between different types of “blue space” and longevity across the United States.

The findings also raise questions about the United States’ slower rebound in life expectancy compared to other developed nations in recent years. Yanni cao, a postdoctoral researcher involved in the study, expressed curiosity about how this data might inform discussions on life expectancy disparities within the U.S. and in comparison to peer countries, suggesting that various social determinants of health likely play a role.