The concept of what constitutes the "oldest" population is complex and can be interpreted in several ways. The answer depends on which demographic metric is used, such as median age, average life expectancy, the percentage of the population over 65, or the percentage of centenarians. While one country may lead in a specific category, another may be considered "older" by a different measure.
The Many Metrics of Longevity
To accurately address the question of which country has the oldest people living, it is important to analyze the different ways demographers measure population aging:
- Median Age: This is the age at which half the population is older and half is younger. It provides a clear snapshot of the overall age structure of a country.
- Life Expectancy: This figure represents the average number of years a person is expected to live, assuming current mortality rates continue.
- Percentage of Population 65+: This metric indicates the size of the elderly cohort relative to the total population.
- Centenarian Rate: This is the proportion of the population that is 100 years or older. It is an indicator of extreme longevity.
Highest Median Age: Monaco
Monaco, a small and wealthy European principality, consistently ranks as having the highest median age in the world. As of 2024, its median age is an estimated 56.9 years, significantly higher than any other country. This is partly due to a combination of high-quality healthcare, a strong economy, and low birth rates. The populace tends to live longer, and a relatively small number of younger people are entering the population, skewing the median age higher.
Longest Life Expectancy: Hong Kong and Japan
When considering average life expectancy, the landscape shifts. In recent years, Hong Kong has held the top spot, with residents living an average of 85.77 years as of 2025. Japan also consistently ranks among the top, with a life expectancy of around 85 years. Key factors contributing to this trend include:
- High standards of living and advanced healthcare systems.
- Healthy, nutrient-rich diets low in saturated fats.
- Culturally integrated physical activity, such as walking and traditional exercises like Tai Chi.
Most Centenarians Per Capita: Japan
Japan has long been renowned for its population of centenarians (people aged 100 or older). While the United States may have a higher absolute number of centenarians due to its larger population, Japan boasts the highest rate of centenarians per capita. In 2020, 0.06% of the population was 100 or older, a rate of 6 per 10,000 people. This concentration of extremely long-lived people is particularly evident in "Blue Zones," like Okinawa, where exceptional longevity is common.
Countries with the Highest Percentage of Older Adults (65+)
Looking at the percentage of the population over 65 also provides valuable insight. As of recent data, several countries in Europe and Asia lead this category, with Japan and Italy at the top.
- Japan: With 28.2% of its population aged 65 or over, Japan leads the world.
- Italy: In second place, Italy has 22.8% of its population in this age bracket.
- Other European Nations: Finland, Portugal, and Greece also feature prominently, with percentages hovering around 22%.
Comparison of Top Longevity Countries
| Metric | Monaco | Hong Kong | Japan | Italy | United States |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Highest Median Age (2024) | 56.9 years | 47.2 years | 49.9 years | 48.4 years | 38.9 years |
| Highest Life Expectancy (2025) | High ranking | 85.77 years | 85.0 years | 84.03 years | 79.61 years |
| Highest Centenarian Rate | N/A | High ranking | Highest per capita | High ranking | Highest absolute number |
| Highest % 65+ Population | N/A | N/A | 28.2% | 22.8% | 16% |
Factors Contributing to Exceptional Longevity
Regions with high concentrations of long-lived individuals, known as "Blue Zones," offer clues into the secrets of longevity. These areas, which include Sardinia (Italy) and Okinawa (Japan), share several common characteristics beyond just access to healthcare.
- Healthy Diet: The Mediterranean and Japanese diets, rich in vegetables, healthy fats, and fish, are consistently linked to a longer lifespan.
- Active Lifestyle: A routine of regular, low-intensity physical activity, such as walking or gardening, is a common feature.
- Strong Social Bonds: Strong community ties, close family relationships, and a sense of belonging have been shown to reduce stress and improve mental well-being.
- Sense of Purpose: In some cultures, having a strong sense of purpose, or ikigai in Japanese culture, is considered vital for a long and happy life.
Conclusion: No Single Answer to Which Country Has the Oldest People Living
Ultimately, there is no single country that unequivocally has the oldest people living. It depends on the specific metric being used. Monaco has the highest median age, Hong Kong boasts the longest average life expectancy, and Japan has the highest rate of centenarians per capita. These regional successes reveal that a combination of factors, including diet, lifestyle, and healthcare, are essential for promoting exceptional longevity.
For more detailed demographic data on global aging, authoritative resources such as the Population Reference Bureau provide in-depth analysis.
