Methodology & Data Sources

This page explains exactly how the Life Expectancy Calculator works, what data it uses, and how lifestyle adjustments are calculated.

Base Life Expectancy Data

The calculator uses the U.S. Social Security Administration 2022 Period Life Table — the same table used in the 2025 SSA Trustees Report. For each age and sex, the table provides "ex" — the expected additional years of life. When you enter your birth date, the calculator determines your precise current age, looks up ex for your age and sex, and adds that to your current age to produce your estimated lifespan.

SSA 2022 Period Life Table

Lifestyle Modifier Values

The lifestyle sliders apply evidence-based year adjustments to the base estimate. These are directional estimates drawn from population-level research — not individual predictions.

FactorOptionYears Added/Subtracted
SmokingNone0
SmokingOccasional-3 years
SmokingDaily-10 years
BMIHealthy (18.5-24.9)0
BMIUnderweight (<18.5)-2 years
BMIOverweight (25-29.9)-1 year
BMIObese (30-34.9)-3 years
BMISeverely Obese (35+)-7 years
ExerciseSedentary-3 years
ExerciseLight0
ExerciseActive+2 years
ExerciseVery Active+3 years
AlcoholNone or Light0
AlcoholModerate-1 year
AlcoholHeavy-5 years
SleepUnder 6hrs-3 years
Sleep6-8hrs0
Sleep8+hrs+1 year
StressLow+1 year
StressMedium0
StressHigh-3 years
DietPoor-3 years
DietAverage0
DietGood+2 years

Important Limitations

These estimates are statistical averages from population data. They do not predict any individual's lifespan. Genetics, healthcare access, accidents, and countless other factors are not captured here. This tool is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not medical advice.

Data Sources

SSA 2022 Period Life Table

CDC National Center for Health Statistics