The long life of Jimmy Carter spotlights the trend of former U.S. presidents enjoying extended retirements, much like Carter himself.

Carter, who passed away at the age of 100 on Sunday, outlived all former presidents in American history — a fact that felt improbable back in 2015 when he revealed that cancer had metastasized to his brain.

The 39th president rarely discussed his longevity, but a significant moment for him came in 2020, when he marked his 75th wedding anniversary with Rosalynn Carter, making them the longest-married presidential couple ever. Rosalynn sadly passed away in November 2023 at 96.

“The best decision I ever made was marrying Rosalynn,” Carter stated during a 2015 C-SPAN interview at The Carter Center. “That’s the highlight of my life.”

Carter’s longevity, as a former peanut farmer and long-time philanthropist, marks a significant chapter in the history of post-presidency.

Increasing Longevity of U.S. Presidents

Before 2004, only two presidents managed to live beyond 90. This includes John Adams, the second president, who passed away on July 4, 1826—coinciding with the death of Thomas Jefferson, who was seven years younger.

In Adams’ era, when the average life expectancy of American men was around 40, it’s no wonder his lifespan was exceptional compared to early presidents.

However, in more recent times, the longevity of most presidents has surpassed the average American man’s lifespan. Since 2004, every former U.S. president has reached their 90s, while the average American man lives into their mid-70s.

This trend has resulted in a notable number of former presidents still living.

In fact, back in 1861, there were five living ex-presidents, but that was rare. Today, this has become a more common occurrence over the last few decades.

Periods with at Least Five Living Former Presidents

Since 1993, Carter has been part of a shifting group of five former presidents during four different time frames.

When they gather at significant events, their appearances provide brief moments of unity amid the growing political division in Washington.

If partisan tensions don’t hinder future gatherings, presidential photographers may soon need equipment to capture a wider group.

Three former presidents who were born just 66 days apart are now all 78 years old this year. Barack Obama celebrated his 63rd birthday in August.

In addition to these former presidents, President Joe Biden, who at 82 is the oldest serving U.S. president, has already outlived all but nine previous presidents.

Among the four other living former presidents—Bill Clinton, Obama, and George W. Bush—all stand a chance of outliving Carter as the longest-surviving presidents after their time in office. However, the significance of their contributions post-presidency compared to Carter’s will be debated by historians.