Counties with the shortest life expectancy in Connecticut
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 Connecticut, 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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#4. Hartford County
– Life expectancy: 78.8 years
— 0.8 years lower than the state average
About
Hartford County blends historic depth, cultural richness, and a strong foundation in education and innovation. Its towns and cities reflect a mix of colonial charm, industrial legacy, and evolving urban life. The region supports a diverse population and a balanced rhythm shaped by tradition and progress.
Residents enjoy access to museums, parks, universities, and vibrant neighborhoods that foster connection and creativity. Community events and civic pride create a sense of belonging and shared identity. Hartford County represents a dynamic, well-rooted way of life grounded in heritage, resilience, and opportunity.
Where is Hartford County?
Hartford County is located in north-central Connecticut, approximately 30 miles south of Springfield, Massachusetts and 25 miles north of Middletown. It spans both banks of the Connecticut River and includes the state capital, Hartford. The county stretches about 35 miles from north to south and 30 miles east to west.
Hartford, the county seat and largest city, is about 100 miles southwest of Boston and 120 miles northeast of New York City. New Britain, another major city, lies approximately 10 miles southwest of Hartford. Hartford County serves as a regional center for government, insurance, and healthcare within southern New England.
#3. New London County
– Life expectancy: 78.6 years
— 1.0 years lower than the state average
About
New London County is shaped by its maritime history, artistic energy, and a strong connection to coastal living. Its towns and cities reflect a blend of seafaring tradition, historic charm, and creative culture. The region thrives on a balance of natural beauty, heritage, and community spirit.
Residents enjoy beaches, harbor views, arts festivals, and a lifestyle that values both reflection and celebration. Local pride, diverse neighborhoods, and waterfront recreation enrich daily life. New London County represents coastal New England at its most authentic—vibrant, enduring, and full of character.
Where is New London County?
New London County is located in southeastern Connecticut, along the coast of Long Island Sound. It lies approximately 50 miles southeast of Hartford and 60 miles southwest of Providence, Rhode Island. The county stretches about 35 miles from east to west and 25 miles from north to south.
New London, one of its major cities, is around 55 miles south of Worcester, Massachusetts and 120 miles northeast of New York City. Norwich, another key city, is located about 15 miles northwest of New London. The county features a mix of coastal towns, rivers, and historic sites, with strong maritime and military significance.
#2. New Haven County
– Life expectancy: 78.5 years
— 1.1 years lower than the state average
About
New Haven County blends academic excellence, industrial legacy, and cultural diversity into a region rich with history and innovation. Its cities and towns reflect a balance of historic architecture, modern energy, and a deep commitment to education and the arts. The area supports a vibrant mix of traditions, neighborhoods, and creative expression.
Residents enjoy museums, theaters, shoreline parks, and community events that promote connection and engagement. Daily life is shaped by intellectual vitality, civic pride, and cultural variety. New Haven County represents a thoughtful, active lifestyle rooted in heritage, learning, and inclusion.
Where is New Haven County?
New Haven County is located in southern Connecticut, along the northern shore of Long Island Sound. It is approximately 40 miles south of Hartford and 75 miles northeast of New York City. The county stretches about 35 miles from east to west and 30 miles from north to south.
New Haven, the county’s largest city, is around 20 miles southeast of Waterbury and 45 miles west of New London. Meriden, located centrally in the county, is about 25 miles southwest of Hartford. New Haven County combines coastal access, urban centers, and suburban communities with cultural and academic institutions.
#1. Windham County
– Life expectancy: 77.4 years
— 2.2 years lower than the state average
About
Windham County is known for its rolling hills, rural charm, and a deep sense of historical and cultural heritage. The region features quiet towns, scenic byways, and a strong connection to traditional craftsmanship and agriculture. Its character is shaped by a blend of simplicity, resilience, and pride in local identity.
Residents enjoy a peaceful pace of life enriched by farmers markets, festivals, and outdoor recreation. Community ties and preservation of open space are central to daily living. Windham County reflects a timeless New England spirit grounded in nature, tradition, and neighborly connection.
Where is Windham County?
Windham County is located in northeastern Connecticut, bordering Massachusetts to the north and Rhode Island to the east. It is approximately 35 miles east of Hartford and 30 miles northwest of Providence, Rhode Island. The county stretches about 30 miles from north to south and 25 miles from east to west.
Putnam, one of its primary towns, lies around 20 miles south of Worcester, Massachusetts and 60 miles west of Cape Cod. Willimantic, another key area, is located about 25 miles northeast of New Haven. Windham County is known for its rural landscapes, historic mills, and quiet New England towns.
This story features data reporting by Karim Noorani, writing by Kiersten Hickman, and is part of a series utilizing data automation across 49 states.
By Stacker
