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Japan vs UK Life expectancy
Japan overtook United Kingdom in 1969. In 1960 United Kingdom stood at roughly 105% of Japan’s Life expectancy; today the figure is about 97%, and the pair was closest in 1970 (100%).
| Year | Japan | United Kingdom | UK as % of Japan |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1960 | 67.7 | 71.13 | 105% |
| 1970 | 71.92 | 71.97 | 100% |
| 1980 | 75.99 | 73.68 | 97% |
| 1990 | 78.84 | 75.88 | 96% |
| 2000 | 81.08 | 77.74 | 96% |
| 2010 | 82.84 | 80.4 | 97% |
| 2020 | 84.56 | 80.33 | 95% |
| 2024 | 84.04 | 81.39 | 97% |
Frequently asked questions
When did Japan pass United Kingdom in Life expectancy?
In 1969. Japan’s published Life expectancy rose above United Kingdom’s that year and the lead has held since.
How do Japan and United Kingdom compare today?
Japan is ahead: 84.04 against 81.39 — the trailing economy stands at about 97% of the leader.
Are these Life expectancy figures nominal or adjusted?
They are exactly as the World Bank publishes them — years — with no interpolation or estimation for missing years.
Full series
Every published year for both economies, with charts, downloads and citations: