Life Expectancy at Birth, Total for the United States

SPDYNLE00INUSA • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

78.39

Year-over-Year Change

-0.33%

Date Range

1/1/1960 - 1/1/2023

Summary

This trend measures the average number of years a newborn is expected to live in the United States. It is a key indicator of a population's overall health and well-being.

Analysis & Context

This economic indicator provides valuable insights into current market conditions and economic trends. The data is updated regularly by the Federal Reserve and represents one of the most reliable sources for economic analysis.

Understanding this metric helps economists, policymakers, and investors make informed decisions about economic conditions and future trends. The interactive chart above allows you to explore historical patterns and identify key trends over time.

About This Dataset

Life expectancy at birth is a widely used demographic indicator that summarizes the mortality pattern of a population. It represents the average number of years a newborn is expected to live if current mortality rates continue to apply.

Methodology

The data is calculated by the U.S. Census Bureau based on mortality statistics and population estimates.

Historical Context

Life expectancy is used by policymakers and economists to assess the overall health of a population and make informed decisions about healthcare, social programs, and economic development.

Key Facts

  • U.S. life expectancy at birth was 78.8 years in 2020.
  • Life expectancy has increased by over 30 years in the U.S. since the early 1900s.
  • Women have a higher life expectancy than men in the U.S.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: This trend measures the average number of years a newborn is expected to live in the United States based on current mortality rates.

Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?

A: Life expectancy is a key indicator of a population's overall health and well-being, and is used by policymakers and economists to inform decisions about healthcare, social programs, and economic development.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The data is calculated by the U.S. Census Bureau based on mortality statistics and population estimates.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: Life expectancy data is used by policymakers and economists to assess the overall health of a population and make informed decisions about healthcare, social programs, and economic development.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The data is published annually by the U.S. Census Bureau, and there may be lags in reporting due to the time required to collect and process the underlying mortality and population data.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Life Expectancy at Birth, Total for the United States (SPDYNLE00INUSA), retrieved from FRED.