If you’re looking for an excuse to plan a seaside getaway, science may have just given you one: coastal living is linked to a longer life. A new study from The Ohio State University, published online in the journal “Environmental Research,” suggests that living close to the ocean may actually add years to your life. Researchers analyzed data from 66-thousand U.S. census reports and found that people who live within 30 miles of the coast or gulf typically live about a year longer than the national average. In contrast, residents of inland urban areas, whether they’re near lakes or rivers or not, had shorter life expectancies.
What scientists found and what they think might explain their findings:
- Coastal residents live about one year longer than the 79-year national average.
- Inland urban dwellers often die around age 78, slightly younger than average.
- Key benefits of coastal living include cleaner air, milder weather, less drought, fewer heatwaves, and more recreation opportunities.
- Higher incomes and better transportation access in coastal areas may also contribute to longer lifespans.
Researchers do note that not all “blue spaces” are equal when it comes to health. While lakes and rivers may offer scenic views, only coastal waters show a clear link to increased longevity. "We found a clear difference — in coastal areas, people are living longer," says lead researcher Jianyong “Jamie” Wu. The takeaway? If you’ve been dreaming of moving closer to the ocean, science says it could be a healthy choice.
Source: Real Simple⠀