Counties with the shortest life expectancy in New Jersey
Life expectancy can be affected by a variety of factors. About 25% of your lifespan is determined by genetics, according to the National Library of Medicine. Health and wellness habits—like following a balanced, nutrient-rich diet; not smoking; drinking minimal alcohol; maintaining a healthy weight; and staying physically active—can add more than a decade to your life, research from the National Institutes of Health shows. While these factors are significant, another important element that you might not have considered is your environment and community.
While life expectancy generally increases annually in the United States—jumping from about 70.8 years old to 77.5 between 1970 and 2022, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention—this particular metric can vary from state to state or even county to county. In some parts of the country, the average lifespan is getting shorter based on a variety of risk factors on top of health, including socioeconomic factors like poverty, unemployment, income, and education.
According to a 2020 study from researchers at Penn State, West Virginia, and Michigan State Universities, communities with a higher population density, more fast food restaurants, and a high number of extraction industry-based jobs tend to have shorter life expectancies.
To find out how life expectancy varies within New Jersey, Stacker used 2024 County Health Rankings & Roadmaps from the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute to identify the counties with the shortest life expectancy. Life expectancy measures the average number of years from birth a person can expect to live and is calculated based on the number of deaths in a given time period and the average number of people at risk of dying during that period. Counties with unreliable or insufficient data were excluded from the analysis. Mortality data came from the National Vital Statistics System.
Read on to see if your county is on the list.
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#10. Passaic County
– Life expectancy: 78.6 years
— 0.6 years lower than the state average
About
Passaic County, New Jersey is shaped by its mix of urban centers, historic mill towns, and scenic highlands. Paterson, the county seat, is known as the “Silk City” for its role in America’s industrial past, anchored by the Great Falls of the Passaic River. Beyond the city, towns and rural areas reflect a balance of cultural diversity, suburban growth, and preserved natural landscapes.
Community life shows in cultural festivals, markets, and local events that highlight the county’s many traditions. Outdoor recreation thrives in parks, reservoirs, and hiking trails that weave through the Ramapo Mountains and the Highlands. Passaic County stands as a place where history, innovation, and natural beauty come together in enduring form.
Where is Passaic County?
Passaic County lies in northern New Jersey, stretching from the urban centers near Paterson into the rural highlands along the New York state border. It is bordered by Bergen County to the east, Morris County to the south, and Sussex County to the west, while Rockland and Orange counties in New York touch its northern edge. Covering about 200 square miles, the county shifts from densely built cities to wooded hills and reservoirs.
Paterson, the county seat, is a historic industrial hub centered around the Great Falls of the Passaic River. Other communities include Clifton, a suburban center, and Wayne, home to William Paterson University. With its mix of industry, education, and natural highland landscapes, Passaic County combines urban vitality with scenic escapes.
#9. Sussex County
– Life expectancy: 78.4 years
— 0.8 years lower than the state average
Sussex County, New Jersey rests in the state’s northwest corner, where mountains, forests, and farmland give it a distinctly rural character. The county seat of Newton preserves historic architecture and civic traditions, while surrounding towns reflect a quieter pace rooted in agriculture and small-town life. Scenic landscapes, from rolling hills to lakes and valleys, have long shaped the identity of the region.
Local fairs, farm markets, and seasonal festivals bring residents together and highlight the county’s deep ties to the land. Outdoor recreation thrives in state parks, along the Appalachian Trail, and at lakes that draw both residents and visitors. Sussex County endures as a place where natural beauty, heritage, and community spirit remain at the heart of daily life.
Where is Sussex County?
Sussex County is located in the far northwestern corner of New Jersey, where the Appalachian Mountains roll into the state. It borders New York’s Orange County to the north, Pennsylvania across the Delaware River to the west, and Warren and Morris counties to the south and east. Spanning more than 520 square miles, it is the largest county in New Jersey by area, known for its ridges, valleys, and lakes.
Newton serves as the county seat, while Sparta, Vernon, and Hopatcong are among its larger communities. High Point State Park, Lake Hopatcong, and the Delaware Water Gap highlight its natural attractions. With a blend of rural towns, outdoor recreation, and mountain scenery, Sussex County offers a quieter counterpart to New Jersey’s urbanized east.
#8. Ocean County
– Life expectancy: 78.1 years
— 1.1 years lower than the state average
About
Ocean County, New Jersey stretches along the Jersey Shore, where coastal towns, barrier islands, and inland communities shape a diverse identity. The county seat of Toms River anchors civic life, while seaside destinations like Seaside Heights, Point Pleasant Beach, and Long Beach Island reflect a strong tourism tradition. Inland pine forests and wetlands balance the energy of the shoreline with preserved natural spaces.
Community pride is expressed through boardwalk festivals, cultural events, and gatherings that celebrate both heritage and coastal life. Outdoor recreation thrives on the Atlantic beaches, Barnegat Bay, and within the Pine Barrens, offering year-round connection to the outdoors. Ocean County stands as a region where shore culture, natural beauty, and community life come together in lasting form.
Where is Ocean County?
Ocean County stretches along the central Jersey Shore, bordered by Monmouth County to the north and Atlantic County to the south. To the west, it meets Burlington County, while the Atlantic Ocean defines its long eastern edge. At more than 900 square miles, it is one of New Jersey’s largest counties, with landscapes ranging from pine forests to barrier islands.
Toms River, the county seat, lies near the center and serves as the region’s commercial hub. Other communities include Lakewood, a fast-growing inland town, and Seaside Heights, known for its boardwalk and beaches. With the Pine Barrens, Barnegat Bay, and extensive shoreline, Ocean County is defined by both coastal recreation and inland natural preserves.
#7. Essex County
– Life expectancy: 77.8 years
— 1.4 years lower than the state average
About
Essex County, New Jersey reflects both historic depth and modern diversity at the heart of the state’s urban landscape. Newark, the county seat, anchors the region with its role as a cultural, economic, and transportation hub, while surrounding towns like Montclair and Livingston showcase suburban character and strong community traditions. The mix of historic districts, universities, and cultural institutions gives the county a dynamic identity.
Local life thrives through festivals, concerts, and neighborhood events that highlight cultural variety and civic pride. Parks and natural areas, including the Watchung Reservation and Branch Brook Park, provide recreation and moments of connection to the landscape. Essex County endures as a place where history, diversity, and community life converge in lasting form.
Where is Essex County?
Essex County is situated in northeastern New Jersey, within the densely populated New York metropolitan area. It is bordered by Passaic County to the north, Hudson County to the east, and Union County to the south, with Morris County lying to the west. Covering about 130 square miles, the county includes a mix of urban centers, suburban neighborhoods, and parklands.
Newark, the county seat and largest city, anchors Essex as a hub of culture, transportation, and commerce. Other communities include Montclair, known for its arts and education, and West Orange, with ties to Thomas Edison’s legacy. With its blend of historic cities, diverse suburbs, and green spaces like South Mountain Reservation, Essex County reflects the variety and vitality of northern New Jersey.
#6. Gloucester County
– Life expectancy: 77.0 years
— 2.2 years lower than the state average
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About
Gloucester County, New Jersey sits in the state’s southwestern corner, where farmland, small towns, and suburban communities blend together. The city of Woodbury, serving as the county seat, preserves historic landmarks that reflect its deep colonial-era roots. Agriculture remains important across the county, even as development has grown with its proximity to Philadelphia.
Community spirit is seen in county fairs, local festivals, and school events that bring residents together. Parks, rivers, and open countryside provide both recreation and a connection to the land. Gloucester County stands as a place where tradition, growth, and rural heritage remain closely linked.
Where is Gloucester County?
Gloucester County is located in southern New Jersey, just across the Delaware River from Philadelphia. It is bordered by Camden County to the northeast, Salem County to the southwest, and Atlantic County to the southeast, while the river forms its western edge with Pennsylvania. Spanning about 330 square miles, the county combines suburban development, farmland, and riverfront landscapes.
Woodbury, the county seat, lies near the Delaware River and serves as the governmental center. Other communities include Glassboro, home to Rowan University, and Washington Township, a major suburban hub. With its mix of higher education, growing suburbs, and agricultural roots, Gloucester County bridges rural and metropolitan life in South Jersey.
#5. Cape May County
– Life expectancy: 76.8 years
— 2.4 years lower than the state average
About
Cape May County, New Jersey rests at the southern tip of the state, defined by its coastline, barrier islands, and historic seaside towns. The city of Cape May, the county seat, is known for its Victorian architecture and role as one of America’s oldest vacation destinations. Tourism, fishing, and coastal preservation have long guided the county’s economy and way of life.
Local traditions come alive in summer festivals, boardwalk events, and community gatherings that celebrate shore culture. Outdoor recreation thrives on sandy beaches, in wildlife refuges, and across the bays and wetlands that shape the landscape. Cape May County remains a place where history, ocean life, and community spirit converge in lasting form.
Where is Cape May County?
Cape May County forms the southernmost tip of New Jersey, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean on three sides and Cumberland County to the north. It covers about 260 square miles of land, with barrier islands, tidal marshes, and coastal forests shaping much of its geography. The county is well known for its shoreline and seaside communities.
Cape May Court House serves as the county seat, located inland near the center. Other towns include Wildwood, Ocean City, and Stone Harbor, each tied to the region’s resort and tourism economy. With its historic charm, coastal ecosystems, and popular beaches, Cape May County stands out as one of New Jersey’s premier vacation destinations.
#4. Camden County
– Life expectancy: 76.2 years
— 3.0 years lower than the state average
About
Camden County, New Jersey reflects a blend of urban history, suburban growth, and cultural diversity in the state’s southwestern region. The city of Camden, the county seat, anchors the area with its industrial legacy, waterfront attractions, and institutions like the Adventure Aquarium and Rutgers University–Camden. Surrounding towns and neighborhoods showcase a mix of historic character and modern development tied to the greater Philadelphia area.
Residents come together through festivals, concerts, and community events that highlight both heritage and creativity. Parks, riverfront trails, and natural reserves provide opportunities for recreation and connection to the outdoors. Camden County endures as a place where history, resilience, and community life remain strongly intertwined.
Where is Camden County?
Camden County is positioned in southwestern New Jersey, directly across the Delaware River from Philadelphia. It is bordered by Burlington County to the northeast, Gloucester County to the southwest, and Atlantic County to the southeast. Covering about 227 square miles, the county features a blend of urban areas, suburban neighborhoods, and stretches of the Pine Barrens.
Camden, the county seat, lies along the riverfront and has long been a center of industry and transportation. Other communities include Cherry Hill, a major suburban hub, and Voorhees Township, known for its residential growth. With its mix of historic river cities, expanding suburbs, and natural preserves, Camden County reflects both metropolitan influence and South Jersey landscapes.
#3. Atlantic County
– Life expectancy: 75.9 years
— 3.3 years lower than the state average
About
Atlantic County, New Jersey is shaped by its coastal setting, where seaside resorts, inland towns, and the Atlantic Ocean define both economy and culture. The city of Mays Landing serves as the county seat, preserving a quieter historic charm, while Atlantic City stands as a world-known center of tourism and entertainment. Beyond the shoreline, pine forests and farmland balance the county’s character with rural and natural landscapes.
Local pride is expressed through cultural festivals, boardwalk traditions, and community gatherings that bring residents together year-round. Outdoor life thrives on beaches, bays, and in the Pinelands, offering recreation that ties people closely to the land and water. Atlantic County endures as a region where history, recreation, and coastal identity continue to shape daily life.
Where is Atlantic County?
Atlantic County is located along the southeastern coast of New Jersey, bordered by Ocean County to the north and Cape May County to the south. To the west, it meets Cumberland and Camden counties, while the Atlantic Ocean shapes its eastern shoreline. The county spans over 560 square miles, with a mix of barrier islands, coastal marshes, and inland pine forests.
Mays Landing, the county seat, sits near the geographic center along the Great Egg Harbor River. Atlantic City, the county’s most famous city, anchors the coastline with its boardwalk, casinos, and resort industry. With its combination of coastal attractions, pine barrens, and historic towns, Atlantic County balances tourism with natural and rural landscapes.
#2. Cumberland County
– Life expectancy: 74.0 years
— 5.2 years lower than the state average
About
Cumberland County, New Jersey rests along the Delaware Bay, where fishing villages, farmland, and small towns reflect a strong connection to the land and water. Bridgeton, the county seat, anchors civic life with historic districts and cultural institutions, while Millville and Vineland add industrial and artistic traditions. Agriculture, glassmaking, and maritime heritage have long been part of the county’s character.
Residents celebrate their community through fairs, cultural events, and seasonal festivals that showcase local pride. Outdoor recreation thrives in wildlife preserves, along the bay, and across the county’s farmland, keeping ties to nature strong. Cumberland County stands as a place where tradition, resilience, and natural beauty remain closely woven into daily life.
Where is Cumberland County?
Cumberland County is located in southern New Jersey, along the Delaware Bay. It is bordered by Salem County to the northwest, Gloucester County to the north, and Atlantic County to the east, with Cape May County to the southeast. Spanning over 480 square miles, it is largely rural, with farmlands, wetlands, and tidal shoreline shaping its character.
Bridgeton, the county seat, sits near the center and serves as a historic hub of government and commerce. Other communities include Vineland, the largest city, and Millville, known for its glassmaking heritage. With its agricultural base, bayshore environment, and strong cultural traditions, Cumberland County reflects both rural life and coastal influence in South Jersey.
#1. Salem County
– Life expectancy: 73.5 years
— 5.7 years lower than the state average
About
Salem County, New Jersey holds one of the state’s oldest histories, with roots reaching back to early colonial settlements along the Delaware River. The city of Salem, the county seat, reflects this heritage through its historic buildings, quiet streets, and enduring role as a civic center. Across the county, farmland, marshes, and small towns maintain a strong rural identity.
Community life is reflected in local fairs, seasonal festivals, and gatherings that highlight agriculture and tradition. Outdoor spaces along rivers, bays, and preserves provide opportunities for recreation and connection to the natural landscape. Salem County endures as a place where history, open land, and community spirit remain at the heart of daily living.
Where is Salem County?
Salem County sits in the southwestern corner of New Jersey, directly along the Delaware River. It is bordered by Gloucester County to the northeast and Cumberland County to the southeast, while Delaware lies just across the river to the west. Covering about 370 square miles, it is the least populous county in the state, marked by farmland, wetlands, and riverfront landscapes.
Salem, the county seat, is one of New Jersey’s oldest towns and lies near the river. Other communities include Pennsville at the Delaware Memorial Bridge and Woodstown near the center of the county. With its agricultural roots, historic settlements, and bayshore environment, Salem County maintains a quiet, rural character.
This story features data reporting by Karim Noorani, writing by Kiersten Hickman, and is part of a series utilizing data automation across 49 states.
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By Stacker
