What is the global average height?

The global average height for adults is approximately 165 cm, with men averaging about 171 cm and women about 159 cm.

Which country has the tallest people?

The Netherlands consistently has the tallest average population, with men averaging about 183.8 cm.

Has human height been increasing over time?

Yes, average heights have increased significantly over the past century due to improved nutrition, healthcare, and living conditions.

What is the main factor that determines height?

Genetics accounts for about 60-80% of height variation, while nutrition and environmental factors during childhood determine the rest.

Does height differ between urban and rural populations?

Yes, urban populations tend to be slightly taller due to better access to nutrition and healthcare services.

Global Average Height

Last updated: January 15, 2026

165 cm

The global average height for adults is approximately 165 cm. Men average about 171 cm and women about 159 cm. Height varies significantly by region due to genetics, nutrition, and healthcare quality.

Historical Trend

Source: NCD-RisC

Global Average Height by Country

Country	Value (cm) ↓	Source
Netherlands	183.8	NCD-RisC
Montenegro	183.2	NCD-RisC
Denmark	181.4	NCD-RisC
Germany	178.9	NCD-RisC
Russia	176.5	NCD-RisC
France	175.6	NCD-RisC
Australia	175.6	NCD-RisC
United States	175.3	CDC
United Kingdom	175.3	NCD-RisC
Canada	174.6	NCD-RisC
South Korea	173.3	NCD-RisC
Brazil	171.4	NCD-RisC
Japan	170.8	NCD-RisC
United Arab Emirates	170.4	NCD-RisC
China	169.7	NCD-RisC
Saudi Arabia	168.9	NCD-RisC
South Africa	166.7	NCD-RisC
Pakistan	166.5	NCD-RisC
India	164.9	NCD-RisC
Nigeria	163.8	NCD-RisC
Guatemala	159.8	NCD-RisC

Why This Average Exists

Average height serves as a proxy for nutritional adequacy and public health quality. Populations that are well-nourished and healthy tend to be taller.

Factors That Affect Global Average Height

Genetics
Childhood nutrition
Healthcare access
Socioeconomic status
Environmental factors
Disease burden

Frequently Asked Questions

Methodology & Data Sources

The data presented on this page is compiled from publicly available datasets published by international organizations including the World Bank, World Health Organization (WHO), International Labour Organization (ILO), United Nations, NASA, and national statistical agencies.

Global averages are calculated using population-weighted or arithmetic means depending on the metric. Country-level data reflects the most recent available figures, typically from 2024–2024. Where gaps exist, the latest available data point is used.

All figures are subject to revision as source organizations update their datasets. For the most authoritative data, we encourage consulting the original sources linked in the table above.