Sofia, Bulgaria – The average life expectancy in Bulgaria has climbed to 75.6 years for the 2022–2024 period, according to new figures released by the National Statistical Institute (NSI).
This marks a notable increase of 2.1 years compared to the previous measurement period (2021–2023), signaling a steady return to the upward trajectory seen before the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted global health trends.
The latest data shows that while longevity is improving nationwide, significant disparities remain based on gender, geography, and settlement type.
Women Outlive Men by More Than 7 Years
Gender continues to play a key role in life expectancy. Bulgarian women can expect to live 79.3 years on average—7.4 years longer than men, whose life expectancy stands at 71.9 years.
Over the past decade, this gap has remained relatively consistent, with men gaining 0.7 years and women adding 1.0 year to their average lifespan since 2014.
“This persistent gender difference highlights broader socio-economic and lifestyle factors,” noted an NSI spokesperson. “Women’s greater longevity has been a stable demographic feature in Bulgaria and across Europe.”
Urban-Rural Divide Persists
The data also underscores the life expectancy gap between urban and rural populations. City dwellers live an average of 76.4 years, while their rural counterparts average just 73.5 years—a 2.9-year difference.
Despite the disparity, both groups have experienced improvements over the past year, with a 2.0-year increase in cities and a 2.2-year jump in villages.
Experts point to healthcare access, infrastructure, and employment opportunities as key reasons for the urban advantage.
“People in rural areas often face greater challenges in reaching medical services and maintaining healthy lifestyles,” said sociologist Maria Georgieva of Sofia University.
Elderly Lifespan Also Increasing
The life expectancy of those aged 65 and over has also improved, now averaging 16.7 years. For men in this group, that figure is 14.5 years, while women can expect to live an additional 18.6 years.
Compared to 2023 data, this marks a 1.5-year increase in remaining life expectancy for seniors, a promising sign for Bulgaria’s aging population.
Regional Disparities Highlight Inequality
Geographical differences are stark across Bulgaria’s 28 districts. Vidin in the northwest has the lowest average life expectancy at 71.9 years, reflecting long-standing socio-economic struggles in the region.
In contrast, the capital district of Sofia boasts the highest at 77.3 years, underscoring regional inequality.
While women outlive men in every region, the gender gap varies widely. Vidin shows the largest gap—9.2 years—whereas Sofia (capital) and Shumen report the smallest difference at 6.6 years.
Looking Ahead
While the latest figures point to recovery and progress, health experts stress that Bulgaria still lags behind many EU countries in life expectancy.
Investment in healthcare, rural development, and gender-focused health initiatives will be essential to close the remaining gaps and sustain the positive momentum.
“Life expectancy is more than a number,” said Georgieva. “It reflects the health, security, and quality of life of a nation. Bulgaria has made gains, but more work remains to ensure those gains are shared by all.”