Ideal Weight Calculator 2026 — Healthy Range by Height

Methodology

How is ideal weight calculated?

We combine three clinically validated formulas and the WHO BMI range to give you a complete reference.

What is ideal weight?

Ideal weight is not an exact number but a reference range. It varies by height, sex, build and muscle mass. No formula captures all that variability, which is why it is useful to see several estimates at once.

Devine Formula (1974)

The most widely used formula in clinical and hospital settings. Developed by Dr B. J. Devine to calculate medication doses. For men: 50 + 2.3 × (height in inches − 60). For women: 45.5 + 2.3 × (height in inches − 60).

Important limitations

These formulas do not account for muscle mass, body fat percentage, age, ethnicity or bone structure. A highly muscular athlete may have an "ideal weight" higher than calculated. Use them as guidance, not as diagnosis.

Quick reference

Ideal weight by height — Man and Woman

Values calculated using the Devine formula (kg). For other formulas use the calculator.

Height	Men (Devine)	Women (Devine)	WHO BMI Range
155 cm	53,0 kg	48,5 kg	44,4–59,9 kg
160 cm	55,5 kg	51,0 kg	47,4–63,9 kg
165 cm	58,0 kg	53,5 kg	50,4–67,8 kg
170 cm	60,5 kg	56,0 kg	53,5–72,0 kg
175 cm	63,0 kg	58,6 kg	56,7–76,3 kg
180 cm	65,5 kg	61,1 kg	59,9–80,8 kg
185 cm	68,0 kg	63,6 kg	63,3–85,4 kg
190 cm	70,5 kg	66,1 kg	66,8–90,1 kg

Frequently asked questions

Questions about ideal weight

What is my ideal weight for my height?

Ideal weight depends on height and biological sex. For a person 170 cm tall, the Devine formula estimates about 60.5 kg for men and 56 kg for women. However, ideal weight is a range, not an exact number. The healthy BMI range (18.5–24.9) is usually more representative. Use the calculator above to get your personalised estimate.

Which formula is most reliable for calculating ideal weight?

There is no universally superior formula. The Devine formula (1974) is the most used in clinical settings for calculating medication doses. Robinson (1983) and Miller (1983) are subsequent revisions. The most advisable approach is to consider the average of several formulas or the WHO healthy BMI range as the main reference.

Is ideal weight the same as healthy weight?

Not exactly. Ideal weight is a mathematical estimate based on height and sex. Healthy weight is the range in which the risk of weight-related diseases is minimal, defined by the WHO as a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9. They are related but not identical concepts: someone may be at their calculated ideal weight but outside the healthy range, or vice versa.

Does ideal weight change with age?

Classic formulas do not adjust for age. However, body composition changes over the years: from age 40–50 muscle mass is lost (sarcopenia) and the proportion of fat increases. Some experts suggest that in people over 65, a BMI of up to 27 may be acceptable, as some weight reserve can be protective.

Why do the formulas give different results?

Each formula was developed with different reference populations and methodologies. Devine (1974) was based on hospitalised patients; Robinson (1983) and Miller (1983) revised those data with new cohorts. Differences are usually 2–5 kg, reflecting the natural variability between people of the same height and sex.

Related calculators