Mortality rates are a measure of the overall health of a community, particularly since some of the most common causes of death, such as heart disease, can be prevented or mitigated through lifestyle changes, prevention efforts, early intervention, and better health care.

In 2016, there were 685 deaths per 100,000 residents in the region, above the rate for the state (624). The regional rate rose from 670 in 2013, breaking a trend of declines in the past few years. Since 2000, the region's rate fell by 16%, less than the 22% decline for the state. The rate in the counties surrounding Monroe as a whole fell 16%. Seneca had the highest mortality rate in the area in 2016 (782), while Livingston had the lowest (645).

Figures were adjusted for age and sex differences among county populations to allow for better comparisons.