Across the globe, people living to 100 years or beyond remain a rarity, yet their numbers are steadily increasing. In the United States, centenarians make up just two out of every 10,000 people, a small slice of the population but one that mirrors broader demographic shifts influencing economies and societies worldwide. The country leading this trend, Japan, has over twice the per capita number of centenarians compared to the U.S., and its experience sheds light on the complex realities of growing old in modern times.
Monaco, Japan, Italy, Spain, and France stand among the top countries with the highest rates of centenarians relative to their populations. Monaco tops the list with an exceptional concentration, followed closely by Japan, which recorded nearly 100,000 centenarians in 2025, a figure that continues to rise annually. Italy, Spain, and France also report substantial centenarian populations that reflect high life expectancies combined with lower fertility rates, a common denominator among these nations. ​
The growth in the number of centenarians is linked primarily to longer life expectancies driven by advances in healthcare, nutrition, and living conditions. These improvements mean those reaching old age are more likely to enjoy extended periods of health and mobility. Concurrently, fertility rates have fallen, leading to aging populations where the proportion of older adults increases relative to younger generations. This demographic shift, while heralding greater longevity, poses challenges related to healthcare demand, pension sustainability, and workforce availability.
Socially, countries with rising centenarian numbers face evolving responsibilities in supporting older populations. This includes the need for age-friendly infrastructure, accessible healthcare, and programs that encourage social engagement to mitigate isolation. Economically, the impact is twofold: increased demand on public resources for elder care and pensions, balanced against opportunities in markets targeting older consumers. Longevity also influences workforce dynamics, as older adults may remain active professionally longer, while younger generations bear the financial and caregiving responsibilities.
Lifestyle factors contribute to longevity as well, with many centenarians benefiting from diets rich in vegetables and fish, regular physical activity, strong social connections, and low stress. These elements, combined with genetic traits, help explain why certain regions see more centenarians. However, the broader trends arise from systemic developments in public health and societal structures rather than individual choices alone.
As populations age, governments and businesses alike must adapt policies and services to accommodate the needs of longer-lived citizens. Balancing the economic pressures of supporting an aging demographic with the potential of this group to contribute economically and socially will require measured approaches. These changes represent neither an unmitigated crisis nor a guaranteed benefit. Instead, they highlight an ongoing transformation shaping societies worldwide as more people enjoy the milestone of becoming a centenarian.Â
