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South Africa's life expectancy at birth stands at 66.7 years in 2026, below the global average. Life expectancy has risen by 24 years since 1950. About 610 thousand people die a year, a crude death rate of 9.3 per 1,000. Infant mortality is 21.9 per 1,000 live births, down 84% since 1950. Women live about 7.0 years longer than men. Those who reach 65 can expect roughly 16 more years, while the risk of dying between 15 and 60 is 28.9%. By 2100, life expectancy is projected to reach 77.3 years.
Life expectancy
66.7 years
Infant mortality
21.9 per 1,000 births
Under-5 mortality
29.9 per 1,000 births
Crude death rate
9.3 per 1,000 people
Life expectancy in South Africa is 66.7 years, below the global average of roughly 73 years. This represents remarkable progress: a gain of 24 years since 1950. Women outlive men by 7 years, a larger gap than typical. By 2100, life expectancy is projected to reach 77.3 years.