Height and Healthy Aging: What Is the Average Height of a Man by Age?

The average height for a man in the United States is about 5 feet 9 inches. But this number doesn't tell the whole story. So, what is the average height of a man by age, and how does it change throughout a lifetime?

Quick Summary

A man's height typically peaks in young adulthood and gradually declines with age. This process often starts around age 30 or 40, with measurable changes in later decades due to factors like spinal compression and bone density loss.

Key Points

• Peak Height: Men generally reach their maximum height in their late teens to early 20s.

• Average in the U.S.: The average height for adult men in the U.S. is about 5 feet 9 inches.

• Gradual Decline: Height loss typically starts around age 30-40, with a loss of up to half an inch per decade thereafter.

• Primary Cause: Most age-related height loss is due to the compression of vertebral discs in the spine.

• Genetics is Key: About 80% of an individual's height is determined by genetic factors.

• Prevention Strategies: A diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, plus weight-bearing exercise, can help minimize height loss by preserving bone density.

Understanding Male Height Across the Lifespan

Height is a key indicator of growth and development, influenced by genetics (about 80%) and environmental factors like nutrition. Men typically reach their maximum height in their late teens or early twenties. In the United States, the average height for men aged 20 and over is approximately 5 feet 9 inches (about 175 cm). As men age, a gradual decrease in height is a natural part of the process.

Why Do Men Lose Height as They Age?

The process of shrinking usually begins around age 30 or 40, with an average loss of about half an inch per decade after 40. Total height loss over a lifetime might be between one to two inches. This is due to several physiological changes:

• Spinal Disc Compression: The discs between vertebrae lose water and thin over time, shortening the spine.
• Loss of Bone Density: Conditions like osteoporosis weaken bones, potentially causing compression fractures in the vertebrae and a stooped posture.
• Muscle Atrophy: Loss of muscle mass can affect posture and standing height.
• Flattening of Feet Arches: The arches in the feet can flatten over time, contributing slightly to height reduction.

Average Height of Men in the U.S. by Age Group

CDC data shows how average height changes with age.

Age Group	Average Height (Centimeters)	Average Height (Feet & Inches)
20–39 years	176.1 cm	~ 5' 9.3"
40–59 years	175.8 cm	~ 5' 9.2"
60+ years	173.4 cm	~ 5' 8.3"

(Source: Based on CDC data)

Key Factors Influencing Height

Beyond age, height is influenced by:

1. Genetics: The most significant factor.
2. Nutrition: Essential for growth during development.
3. Hormones: Crucial for bone development.
4. Lifestyle Habits: Smoking, excessive alcohol, and a sedentary lifestyle can accelerate bone density loss.
5. Geographic Location and Ethnicity: Averages vary globally.

Strategies for Healthy Aging and Maintaining Stature

Healthy habits can help mitigate height loss and support well-being. For more detailed information, the CDC provides comprehensive data on health metrics for adults.

• Weight-Bearing Exercise: Helps maintain bone density.
• Core Strengthening and Posture: Improves posture to prevent slouching.
• Adequate Nutrition: Calcium and vitamin D are vital for bone health.
• Regular Medical Check-ups: Can detect osteoporosis early. Rapid height loss needs medical attention.

Conclusion

A man's average height changes throughout life, with a natural decline after early adulthood primarily due to spinal changes. Healthy habits supporting bone and muscle health can help maintain posture and promote healthy aging.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much height do men typically lose as they age?

Men can gradually lose about an inch between the ages of 30 and 70, and potentially another inch after age 80.

At what age do men start losing height?

The process of losing height can begin as early as age 30, but it often becomes more noticeable after age 40.

Can I prevent height loss completely?

While you cannot completely prevent age-related height loss, you can minimize it by maintaining good posture, eating a nutrient-rich diet (especially calcium and Vitamin D), and engaging in regular weight-bearing exercise to keep bones strong.

Is losing height a sign of a health problem?

A gradual loss of height is normal. However, rapid or significant height loss (e.g., two or more inches) can be a sign of osteoporosis, which increases the risk of fractures. If you notice rapid changes, consult a doctor.

What is the main reason people get shorter?

The primary reason for age-related height loss is the thinning and compression of the discs between the vertebrae in your spine. Loss of bone density in the spine can also contribute.

Does my childhood diet affect my adult height?

Yes, nutrition during your growing years has the biggest non-genetic impact on your final adult height. Deficiencies in key nutrients can lead to stunted growth.

What is the average height for men worldwide?

The global average height for men is approximately 5 feet 7.5 inches (about 171 cm), which is slightly shorter than the average in the United States.

Do men or women lose more height with age?

Generally, women lose more height than men as they age. Women can lose up to two inches between ages 30 and 70, while men typically lose about one inch in the same period.