How long will a 65 year old man live?

How Long Can a 65-Year-Old Man Expect to Live?

It’s a question many ask as retirement approaches: How many years lie ahead after turning 65? According to the Society of Actuaries, the average 65-year-old man in the U.S. today can expect to live until about 87. For women, the number is slightly higher—closer to 89. But these are just medians, and many people end up living well beyond them.

Life expectancy has steadily increased over the past few decades, thanks to advances in healthcare, better understanding of nutrition, and more active lifestyles. If you're generally healthy, don’t smoke, exercise regularly, and have access to quality medical care, your odds of reaching—or even surpassing—those numbers go up significantly.

It’s also worth noting that “average” doesn’t tell your personal story. The people who typically use life expectancy tools—those planning for retirement, long-term care, or legacy goals—often live longer than the median. Why? Because they’re already thinking ahead, making informed choices, and taking steps to stay healthy. In many ways, the effort you put into well-being today shapes how many tomorrows you’ll see.

Of course, no one can predict the future with certainty. But knowing the averages helps frame the conversation. Whether it’s planning finances, travel, or time with family, understanding life expectancy gives you a clearer picture of what’s possible.

So while 87 may be the number for the average 65-year-old man, the real answer could very well be: longer than you think—especially if you’re proactive.