---
title: What is the best age to buy life insurance | Coverfolk
url: https://coverfolk.com/answers/best-age-to-buy-life-insurance
updated: 2026-10-08
---

# What is the best age to buy life insurance?

Updated October 8, 20263 sourcesCoverfolk team[Fact checked](/editorial-standards)

The short answer

Most people pay the least when they buy young and healthy. A good time to buy is when someone starts to count on your money, like when you marry, have a child or buy a home.

Life insurance costs more as you get older. The risk of death goes up with age, so the price goes up too.

One MoneyGeek example for a $500,000, 20 year term policy showed about $28 a month at age 25, $44 at 35 and $84 at 45. Your price will be different. The example shows how fast cost can climb.

Your health matters as much as your age. If you get a new health problem, an insurer may charge more or say no.

Buy when people depend on you. A spouse who needs your pay, kids at home or a mortgage are the most common reasons.

If no one depends on you and you have enough money for your final bills, the Insurance Information Institute says you may not need life insurance at all.

* You get married
* You have or adopt a child
* You buy a home
* You start a business with a partner
* You want your funeral costs covered

## More questions

### Is it too late to buy at 60?

No. You can still buy, but it costs more. Some insurers have age limits. If your kids are grown and your debts are paid, you may need less coverage.

### Should I wait until I need it?

Waiting usually costs more. Prices go up with age, and your health can change before you apply.

## Sources

1. [MoneyGeek: When Should You Get Life Insurance?](https://www.moneygeek.com/insurance/life/when-should-you-get-life-insurance)
2. [Triple-I: How much life insurance do I need?](https://www.iii.org/article/how-much-life-insurance-do-i-need)
3. [NerdWallet: How Much Life Insurance Do I Need?](https://www.nerdwallet.com/blog/insurance/life-insurance-20s-30s)