How Long Does a Monkey Live?

By Staff WriterLast Updated March 27, 2020

Monkeys in the wild rarely live to old age and may only live to young adulthood. In captivity, monkeys can live well into their 20s, sometimes even into their 30s.

There are at least 264 species of monkeys. Precise life span varies widely depending on species, diet and predators in the area. Monkeys in the wild may be hunted, must hunt for their own food, and can fall victim to disease or weather conditions. Monkeys in captivity do not have to cope with these variables and typically lead much longer lives. Depending on its individual circumstance and breed, a monkey can live for as long as 30 years.