Few places on Earth have seen such a dramatic transformation in life expectancy as Singapore. In 1960, just before gaining independence, a child born in this small Southeast Asian island nation could expect to live to around 65. Today, that figure has risen to over 86 years, making Singapore one of the longest-living nations globally. Even more striking, the number of centenarians doubled between 2010 and 2020.
This remarkable rise in longevity is no accident—it is the result of decades of deliberate government policy, investment in public health, and a national focus on quality of life.
Singapore: The World’s First Urban “Blue Zone 2.0”
In August 2023, Singapore was named the sixth Blue Zone—a term coined by National Geographic journalist Dan Buettner to describe regions where people live significantly longer lives. Unlike traditional Blue Zones such as Ikaria (Greece) or Nicoya (Costa Rica), where longevity is rooted in ancient traditions and lifestyle, Singapore is considered a “Blue Zone 2.0”: a place where long life is engineered through policy, planning, and innovation.
Key Drivers of Longevity in Singapore
1. World-Class Healthcare Infrastructure
Singapore’s healthcare system consistently ranks among the world’s best for both quality and efficiency. The 2023 Legatum Prosperity Index ranked Singapore #1 globally for health, recognizing its blend of:
- Universal healthcare coverage
- Efficient public-private care systems
- Mandatory medical savings accounts (Medisave)
- Subsidies to control out-of-pocket costs
This structure ensures accessibility, affordability, and sustainability.
2. Environment that Encourages Healthy Living
Policy extends far beyond hospitals and clinics:
- Green spaces and parks are embedded throughout the city, encouraging walking and outdoor activity.
- Robust public transport reduces reliance on cars, promoting daily physical movement.
- Cleanliness and hygiene are national priorities, enforced through laws and civic responsibility.
- Strict public health laws (e.g., on smoking, littering, and drug use) contribute to a safe and clean environment.
3. Social Cohesion and Mental Wellbeing
Singapore’s diverse population lives under a policy framework that emphasizes unity and harmony. Laws are strict, but many citizens believe they contribute to a sense of safety, calm, and shared identity, all of which play into mental wellbeing—a crucial component of longevity.
Quality Over Quantity
For Singaporeans, it’s not just about living longer—it’s about living better. Residents often cite:
- Security
- Access to quality food
- Well-maintained infrastructure
- Efficient services
- Social safety nets
as reasons for their high quality of life.
However, this does come with a cost. Singapore is one of the most expensive cities globally, ranked second only to Hong Kong by Mercer’s 2023 cost of living index.
Lessons for the World
Singapore proves that longevity isn’t just cultural or genetic—it can be built. Its success shows how:
- Policy can create healthy environments
- Access and affordability matter
- Urban design can foster physical activity
- Social order and cohesion support mental health
In an aging global population, Singapore stands as a case study in how governments can intentionally design longer, healthier lives.