A new study finds SC Life Expectancy is falling faster than anywhere in the U.S.

The average life expectancy fell in all 50 states and Washington, D.C. in recent years, with some states, including South Carolina, seeing a more significant decline than others. 

SC Life Expectancy

To uncover the states where life expectancy is decreasing the most and least, the Forbes Advisor Life Insurance team analyzed each state’s average life expectancy via the CDC and calculated the percentage change from 2018 to 2021 (the most recent year for which state-level data is available). 

The new study revealed that the average life expectancy in South Carolina fell by 3.92%. That is the 12th most significant decline nationwide. SC Life Expectancy is falling faster than it has in over the past 60 years.

Key findings from our report:

• Seven of the 10 states where life expectancy fell the most are in the South: Alabama, Arkansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee and West Virginia.
• Six of the 10 states where life expectancy decreased the least are in the Northeast: Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Rhode Island and Vermont.
• Hawaii has the longest average life expectancy (79.9 years) and Mississippi has the shortest (70.9 years).

Commenting on the study, Jason Metz, Lead Editor at Forbes Advisor says, “The Forbes Advisor study reveals that the average life expectancy declined in all 50 states and the District of Columbia from 2018 to 2021. Covid-19, drug overdoses and accidental injuries are key contributors driving the decrease in life expectancy nationwide.“

In 2020, before the covid pandemic, SC life expectancy was 74.8 years, which was 2.2 years below the national average. This positioned South Carolina among the states with the lowest life expectancies in the nation.

The average rates for SC life expectancy have shown a persistent decline since 2020.

However, unforeseen tragedies can occur, affecting a family’s financial stability. It is essential to incorporate a comprehensive financial plan that includes the selection of the most suitable life insurance policy. This ensures the protection of your loved ones from potential financial hardships in the event of your sudden and unexpected passing.