Eastern Macedonia and Thrace records the lowest life expectancy in Greece
Life expectancy in the Region of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace (AMTH) is the lowest in Greece, standing at just 80.7 years, compared to the national average of 81.8 years, according to recently published Eurostat data.
The region also shows one of the largest gender gaps in life expectancy, reaching 5.6 years.
Where Greeks Live the Longest
According to Eurostat, women in Epirus lead the way in longevity across the country. However, when considering both men and women, the North Aegean islands record the highest overall life expectancy, averaging 83.8 years.
Women in the North Aegean live on average 86.2 years, while men reach 81.4 years. This result is unsurprising, given the reputation of islands such as Lesvos, Chios, and Samos, with Ikaria being internationally recognized for exceptional longevity.
Epirus ranks second, with an average life expectancy of 83.7 years (86.5 years for women and 81 years for men).
The South Aegean comes third, at 82.7 years, with women living 84.8 years and men 80.6 years—showing the smallest gender gap in Greece at just 4.2 years.
At the opposite end, Eastern Macedonia and Thrace reports the lowest overall life expectancy in the country at 80.7 years, with one of the widest gender gaps, at 5.6 years.
The widest gender difference is found in Central Greece, where women outlive men by 6 years. This finding shows that gender gaps are not necessarily linked to the overall life expectancy level of a region.
Why Do Women Live Longer?
Nationally, the average life expectancy in Greece is 81.8 years. Women consistently live longer, averaging 84.4 years, while men reach 79.2 years. This gap reflects both biological factors and differences in lifestyle.
A study by Xanthi Ch. Tigani (Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens) based on 400 centenarians across Greece revealed significant insights:
More likely to be widowed, reflecting their greater longevity.
Lower educational levels, mirroring the social conditions of their youth.
Show greater adaptability to change.
Score high on reward dependence, indicating strong socialization, kindness, and sensitivity to others’ needs.
Their optimism is linked to an external health control orientation.
Male centenarians:
More likely to have at least one first-degree relative who also lived past 100, suggesting stronger genetic factors.
Display higher optimism levels compared to women.
Show strong self-direction, taking responsibility for their own choices and health, combined with spirituality and internal health control.
These findings highlight that while genetics play a stronger role in male longevity, women’s psychological resilience and adaptability appear to be key factors in their longer life spans.
