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I couldn't help but notice that the top three counties (Summit, Pitkin, and Eagle counties in CO) are largely empty space with some of the country's best ski resorts. I suspect that the life expectancy there may largely be driven by fit retirees who move there.



Not merely ski resorts, but specifically Aspen (in Pitkin County) and Vail (in Eagle County). These are not merely fit retirees, but the richest retirees in the world.

Further, there is a bit of selection bias here in that the town of Aspen is at 8000 feet of elevation. You need to have a decent baseline of physical fortitude just to step off the plane there as an older person...

Finally, for what it is worth, day to day life in Aspen (even outside of the ski season) is extremely active and everything about the town promotes that activity.

I personally don't think there is anything actionable or interesting[1] about Aspen and Vail having high life expectancies - they are completely non-representative of any piece of the real world.

[1] Well, other than fitness and activity increasing your lifespan, but we all know that already.


Having lived in Aspen for a while (no longer) I do have to say: everyone that lives there is extremely fit compared to say... the Bay Area.

Not just the rich people - the average person (who is more likely a retail/food service worker) is just more active - going on several 1000ft hikes in spring & summer weekly, or long bike rides, etc.

It's very very easy to be healthy there: I got fitter, skinnier, and healthier in the 8 months I was there.


Or access to great skiing promotes a healthier lifestyle.




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