According to the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation a Garden State county has the longest life expectancy in the nation. Bergen county women are likely to live longer than anyone in the United States. New Jersey as a whole is number one in life expectancy in the U.S. New York and Connecticut ranked high on the list, while Oklahoma and Mississippi were on the bottom.

So why Bergen county? Officials attribute it to fitness programs in their senior centers.

Explanation for the Garden State came from Joan Campanelli of County Nutriton and Wellness:

New Jersey does well because people are informed, fortunate and well-educated.

The report found that access to health is key, and that reducing salt in your diet can help you live longer. Additionally, some of the biggest risk factors to good health are tobacco, high blood pressure and obesity.

Do you have a family member from New Jersey that proves this study is accurate? Tell us your story in the "Leave a Comment" section below.

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