The US Spends Most on Healthcare but Lives Less
Americans spend more per person on healthcare than any country on Earth — yet live shorter, lose more infants, and have higher maternal mortality than countries spending a fraction.
Key Findings
1.
The US spends ~$12K per person on health — 2-3× more than most rich nations — yet ranks below 40 countries in life expectancy
2.
US infant mortality is higher than Cuba, South Korea, and most of Europe despite spending 10× more
3.
US maternal mortality is the highest among developed nations — and rising
4.
Japan spends ~$5K per person and tops the world in life expectancy, infant survival, and maternal safety
5.
After ~$4K per capita spending, more money buys almost no additional years of life — but the US keeps spending
Infant Mortality Rate (2025)
| Country | Infant Mortality Rate |
|---|---|
| Japan | 1.8 |
| Germany | 3.1 |
| Australia | 3.1 |
| France | 3.5 |
| Switzerland | 3.5 |
| United Kingdom | 4.1 |
| Canada | 4.4 |
| United States | 5.5 |
| Cuba | 7.2 |
Maternal Mortality Ratio (2025)
| Country | Maternal Mortality Ratio |
|---|---|
| Australia | 1.20 |
| Japan | 3.00 |
| Switzerland | 3.60 |
| Germany | 4.00 |
| France | 7.60 |
| United Kingdom | 11.40 |
| Canada | 13.20 |
| United States | 20.00 |
| Cuba | 62.00 |
Methodology
Data from World Bank World Development Indicators and IMF World Economic Outlook. Values in current US dollars unless stated. GDP per capita uses Atlas method. Full methodology.
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