Which cicada has the longest life cycle? The most famous cicadas — North American periodical cicadas — typically live 17 or 13 years. These cicadas only represent about 0.2% of all cicadas, most of which live shorter lives. Magicicada septendecim cicadas live 17 years. Cicada Life Spans: Cicada life spans (life cycle length) vary from … Continue reading How long do cicadas live? Longest life cycle?