By SDCN Staff
San Diego, CA–Residents across San Diego County are living slightly longer, according to newly released data from the County’s Community Health Statistics Unit.
The latest report places the region’s life expectancy at 81.5 years, surpassing the national average of 79 years and slightly exceeding California’s average of 81.2 years. Officials say the figures reflect a continued upward trend in overall health outcomes countywide.
A child born in San Diego County in 2024 is expected to live to 81.5 years, underscoring steady gains in longevity over time.
The data also highlights persistent demographic differences. Women in the county continue to outlive men, with an average life expectancy of 84 years compared to 79 years for men. Among racial and ethnic groups, Asian residents recorded the highest life expectancy at 87.6 years, while Black residents had the lowest at 75.2 years.
“These numbers represent our region and our many subcommunities throughout San Diego,” said County Public Health Officer Dr. Sayone Thihalolipavan. “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.”
Geographic differences were also notable. Coronado reported the highest life expectancy at 87.2 years, while Lemon Grove recorded the lowest at 78.7 years–a gap of 8.5 years between communities.
The report found that cancer remains the leading cause of death in the region, followed by heart disease, stroke, unintentional injuries and Alzheimer’s disease. Stroke rose to the third leading cause, in part due to a decline in overdose-related deaths.
County officials said residents can explore more detailed data–including breakdowns by age, race, sex and geographic region–through the County’s interactive online dashboard.
Public health leaders say ongoing efforts to reduce disparities will focus on prevention, education and community partnerships aimed at improving health outcomes across all communities.
