DataPoint: 2019 County Health Rankings

Based on data compiled by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, Rockland County is the healthiest county in New York State. The 2019 County Health Rankings study used mortality rates, health behaviors, and several other health measures to evaluate each county. Nassau, Westchester, Saratoga, and New York counties rounded out the top five healthiest counties. In contrast, Bronx County was ranked the least healthy, followed by Sullivan County. Through 2017, life expectancy was 81.2 years statewide. Eight counties had life expectancies lower than 78, with the lowest occurring in Chemung County (77.2 years). Overall, 15.9 percent of New York State’s population was age 65 and older. Hamilton (30.3 percent) and Delaware (23.9 percent) counties had the highest percentage of elder residents. The study found that preventable hospital stays per 100,000 Medicare enrollees were highest in Cayuga and Wayne counties. Conversely, hospital stays were most commonly avoided in Tompkins and New York counties.

To view the entire 2019 County Health Rankings study, which includes quality measures for each county, click here.

Contact: Ken Allison, kallison@leadingageny.org, 518-867-8820