It is a well-known fact that just because you have a lot of money does not make you happier. However, the wealthiest among us do seem to be healthier and live quite a bit longer.
Studies dating back to the 1800’s to present day have found that the mortality gradient by income does exist. The most recent study by Chetty found that Not only does the top 1% of the income distribution live longer than everyone else, but the gap in life expectancy at 40 years of age is widening, and there has been little gain in life expectancy among the lowest income individuals living in the United States.
The infamous 1% is not only richer, but much healthier. The disparity is so great that individuals in the top 1% of income have 10-15 more years to enjoy their richly funded lives and to spend time with their children and grandchildren, and they are pulling away from everyone else.