Wealth Insights
Exploring blue zones for longevity insights

Article 4 min read Published August 27, 2025

Learn a few takeaways from the world’s longest-lived populations.

In the U.S., the average life expectancy is 78.4 years old, government figures show. But there are places around the globe where people commonly live past 100. National Geographic explorer Dan Buettner’s research labels these “blue zones.”

For the past two decades, Buettner has highlighted the lifestyle differences in blue zones as a reason for long, vibrant lives. From the long walks Italy’s Sardinian shepherds get to the idea of “plan de vida” that keeps Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula residents focused on a deep sense of purpose, the research defines ways of life that add up.

While the idea of common threads among the world’s longest-lived populations has held up over time, it’s important to note the limitations in the early demographic figures, such as missing birth records.

Why you should take note

Longevity and well-being are top concerns of high-net-worth individuals. With the U.S. wellness market reaching $480 billion, according to a recent McKinsey & Co. report, it’s clear that Americans are willing to invest in these pursuits.

The blue zones research, however, doesn’t point to fancy wellness clinics or pricey supplements as the key to vitality. Instead, it highlights small, everyday habits that are culturally ingrained as helping pave the path to a longer life.

Today, cities across the U.S. are implementing projects based on blue zones research to enhance residents’ well-being, and the concept has inspired a Netflix documentary and several books. Each offers an intriguing look into how unconscious behaviors and better-designed environments can lead to improved quality of life.