According to updated data, life expectancy at birth in Kazakhstan reached a new high of 76 years in 2025. After declining during the pandemic period, the indicator has been increasing for the fourth consecutive year.
Over the past decade, life expectancy in the country has increased by 5.6%, and over fifteen years — by 11%. These are solid results. However, in comparison with other countries, Kazakhstan still lags behind many of them. In the 2023 ranking, the country placed only 132nd.
Which regions in Kazakhstan have the highest life expectancy?
At the regional level, the situation varies significantly. In 2025, only 7 out of 20 regions in Kazakhstan recorded life expectancy at birth above the national average.
The highest life expectancy was observed in the following regions:
• Almaty — 78.83 years (plus 3.8% compared to the national average);
• Astana — 78.78 years (plus 3.7%);
• Shymkent — 77.76 years (plus 2.3%);
• Mangystau Region — 76.66 years (plus 0.9%);
• Zhambyl Region — 76.24 years (plus 0.4%).
At the same time, the lowest показатели were recorded in:
• Ulytau Region — 73.56 years (minus 3.2% compared to the national average);
• North Kazakhstan Region — 73.63 years (minus 3.1%);
• East Kazakhstan Region — 73.76 years (minus 2.9%).
In terms of dynamics, most regions showed positive trends, with only three exceptions. A decline was recorded in Kyzylorda Region (minus 0.4%), Abai Region (minus 0.2%), and North Kazakhstan Region (minus 0.1%).
A notable pattern is also observed across gender lines. According to official data, women in Kazakhstan live, on average, more than 7.5 years longer than men. In 2025, life expectancy at birth reached 79.8 years for women, compared to 72.19 years for men. This pattern is consistent across all regions of the country.
The largest gender gaps were recorded in West Kazakhstan Region (a difference of 10.2 years), East Kazakhstan Region (9.1 years), and North Kazakhstan Region (8.7 years).
The smallest gap was observed in Astana, Shymkent, and Mangystau Region, at 5.2 years.
A more detailed breakdown is presented in the infographic below.
Thus, despite the steady growth in life expectancy at birth and gradual recovery after the pandemic, Kazakhstan still lags behind most countries and faces significant regional and gender disparities. This reflects persistent imbalances in socio-economic development and differences in access to healthcare services.
Without comprehensive and systemic measures aimed at improving healthcare quality and living standards, as well as reducing existing disparities, further progress may slow.
