The 10 Oldest U.S. Presidents: Ranked by Age at End of Term
10. James Monroe
- Age at End of Term: 66 years, 10 months
- As the fifth president, Monroe’s two terms from 1817 to 1825 were marked by the Monroe Doctrine, a policy opposing European colonization in the Americas.
9. William Henry Harrison
- Age at End of Term: 68 years, 1 month
- Serving the shortest presidency in U.S. history, Harrison died just one month after his inauguration in 1841. His legacy includes the longest inaugural address ever given.
7. Harry S. Truman
- Age at End of Term: 68 years, 8 months
- Ascending to the presidency after Franklin D. Roosevelt’s death in 1945, Truman’s decisions reshaped the post-World War II world, including his use of atomic weapons and the implementation of the Marshall Plan.
6. James Buchanan
- Age at End of Term: 69 years, 10 months
- Buchanan, the only lifelong bachelor to serve as president, held office from 1857 to 1861. His term was marred by growing tensions that led to the Civil War.
5. Andrew Jackson
- Age at End of Term: 69 years, 11 months
- Known as “Old Hickory,” Andrew Jackson served as the nation’s seventh president from 1829 to 1837. His leadership included controversial policies like the Indian Removal Act, which led to the Trail of Tears.
4. Dwight D. Eisenhower
- Age at End of Term: 70 years, 3 months
- A decorated World War II general, Eisenhower served two terms from 1953 to 1961. His administration is remembered for significant civil rights advancements and the creation of the U.S. interstate highway system.
3. Ronald Reagan
- Age at End of Term: 77 years, 11 months
- Serving two terms from 1981 to 1989, Reagan remains one of the oldest presidents. Known for his career in Hollywood before politics, Reagan brought his charisma to the Oval Office, shaping the nation during the final years of the Cold War.
2. Donald Trump
- Age at End of First Term: 74 years, 7 months
- Age at Start of Second Term: 78 years, 7 months
- Former President Donald Trump became the oldest person ever elected to the presidency following his 2024 election victory. If he completes his second term, he will also become the oldest U.S. president in history at 82 years, 7 months.
Presidential history is marked by leaders of all ages, but some U.S. presidents stand out for assuming office or leaving it later in life. Here’s a list of the 10 oldest U.S. presidents, ranked by their age as of their last day in office or their projected age at the start of their term. These historical figures have led the nation during pivotal moments, often bringing a wealth of experience to the role.
1. Joseph Biden
- Age at End of Term: 82 years, 2 months
- President Joe Biden is the oldest president in U.S. history. Opting not to seek reelection, Biden’s presidency will end on January 20, 2025. His age at the conclusion of his term secures him the title of the oldest U.S. president to date, though Donald Trump could surpass him if he completes his second term.
