It’s true that where you live can make for better living. Since being announced as a Blue Zones Project demonstration community, we’ve been improving our community and our quality of life together. And the results are impressive.

Midwestern city, supported by Blue Zones Project, climbs out of economic crisis with projected lifespans increased by nearly 3 years and economic value by the millions.

The first Blue Zones Project demonstration community paints a picture of success. From $7.5 million savings in annual health care costs for employers as a result of a decline in smokers to 2.9 projected years added to participant's lifespan within a year of participating in the Blue Zones Project, Albert Lea's commitment to well-being has resulted in numerous measurable impacts. 

Albert Lea was featured on the popular Irish television show Operation Transformation. Producers visited Minnesota in December, and spoke with Organization Lead Ellen Kehr about the results Albert Lea has seen since becoming a Blue Zones Community. 

Check out Albert Lea's impressive transformation as a Blue Zones Community, including a 90 percent increase in community satisfaction, a 40 percent drop in city worker healthcare costs, a 25 percent increase in property values, a 40 percent increase in biking and walking, and three years of life added by program participants.

Albert Lea ranks in the top five of Realtor.com's Top 10 Affordable Small Towns Where You'd Actually Want To Live.

Albert LEA TRIBUNE: ALBERT Lea earns recognition during 2nd annual national Blue Zones Project summit

Original Albert Lea Tribune article.