What factor does NOT affect the cost and availability of life insurance?

In the context of life insurance, the factors that typically influence the cost and availability include the age of the applicant, the type and amount of insurance purchased, and the health condition of the applicant. Each of these factors is directly correlated to the underwriting process, which assesses the risk the insurer takes on by providing coverage.

The age of the applicant is crucial because younger individuals generally pose a lower risk of dying compared to older individuals; thus, they often receive lower premiums. Similarly, the type and amount of insurance purchased directly impact the cost. More coverage or specific types of policies may require higher premiums based on the associated risks. Finally, the applicant's health condition can significantly affect insurability, as pre-existing conditions or poor health could lead to higher premiums or even a denial of coverage.

Conversely, the size of the insurance company’s office has no bearing on the underwriting process or risk assessment. The operational scale of an insurance company's physical location does not influence the pricing or availability of life insurance products. Therefore, it is the least relevant factor in determining life insurance costs and availability.