The number of people living to 100 years and beyond continues to rise globally, reflecting a steady shift toward ageing populations. Improvements in healthcare, nutrition, and living standards have enabled more individuals to reach centenarian status than ever before, though the distribution varies significantly across countries.
Japan leads global centenarian count
Japan remains the clear global leader, with around 120,000 centenarians. The country’s high life expectancy is supported by strong public health systems, preventive care, and dietary habits, with ageing trends developing gradually over decades.
United States and China follow
The United States has approximately 64,000 people aged 100 or older, driven by its large population and advances in medical care. However, disparities exist across regions and socio-economic groups.
China follows with about 39,000 centenarians, reflecting rapid demographic transition, economic development, and improved healthcare access, particularly in urban areas.
India among top countries
India accounts for roughly 29,000 centenarians. The figure highlights the impact of its large population and improving healthcare services, although significant gaps remain between urban and rural areas.
Europe’s ageing populations
Several European nations also feature prominently:
- France: ~29,000 centenarians, supported by strong healthcare and preventive systems
- Italy: ~21,000, reflecting one of Europe’s oldest populations
- Germany: ~18,000, driven by high living standards and medical progress
- United Kingdom: ~18,000, with rising life expectancy trends
- Spain: ~14,000, benefiting from lifestyle and healthcare factors
Russia and regional variation
Russia has around 13,000 centenarians, though life expectancy varies widely due to regional and economic differences, with urban areas generally showing better outcomes.
A global ageing shift
Overall, the rise in centenarians highlights a broader demographic transition. Countries with strong healthcare systems, stable economies, and healthy lifestyles tend to see higher numbers of people living past 100, while others are gradually catching up as living conditions improve worldwide.
