A study from Ohio State University has found that people who live within about 48 kilometers (30 miles) of the coastline tend to live longer than the average American — by roughly one extra year.
According to the research, coastal residents have an average life expectancy of 79 years, compared to 78 years for people living farther inland.
Researchers suggest that “blue spaces” such as seas and bays contribute to better health by providing cleaner air, a calming atmosphere, and lower levels of pollution, heat, and stress, all of which benefit both physical and mental well-being.
However, living near other bodies of water, such as rivers or lakes, may not offer the same positive effects.
In short, being close to the ocean or breathing in coastal air might truly help us live longer.Source:
Research by Ohio State University (2025), reported by The Guardian and ScienceAlert.
