In the wild west of indicators, it’s important to find a sentinel measure that is easily understood by policy makers and the public, but yet commands interest. Small area analysis of life expectancy (below the county level) is one potential indicator that would fit that bill. In this panel, four different jurisdictions will share their experiences, barriers, pitfalls, and successes of creating and disseminating sub-county life expectancy estimates. Results will include an examination of the relationship between some social determinants of health and life expectancy.