England’s north-south life expectancy gap grows despite record longevity
The News
A King's Fund report reveals that the north-south life expectancy gap in England has widened over the past decade, despite overall life expectancy reaching a record high in 2025. Average life spans are now 80 years for men and nearly 84 for women, but gains have been concentrated in the south. Northern regions continue to experience higher rates of heart disease, cancer, suicides, and alcohol- and drug-related deaths, highlighting persistent health inequalities.
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Regional disparities may fuel demands for more autonomy.
Life expectancy reached an all-time high in 2025, with men living on average 80 years and women nearly 84 years.
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Key findings
The north-south divide in life expectancy in England has grown over the past decade.
The Guardian- Regional disparities may fuel demands for more autonomy.
- Brexit's impact on northern vs southern economies.
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Claims
The north-south divide in life expectancy in England has grown over the past decade.
The GuardianThe gains in life expectancy were overwhelmingly in the south.
The GuardianPeople in northern regions face more illnesses such as heart disease and cancer, as well as suicides and deaths related to alcohol and drug misuse.
The GuardianLife expectancy reached an all-time high in 2025, with men living on average 80 years and women nearly 84 years.
The Guardian