BMI calculator
Enter your height and weight. See your BMI, its category and a healthy weight range.
How BMI is calculated
BMI is weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared. With pounds and inches, BMI = 703 x weight / height squared. Example: 165 lb at 5 ft 9 in (69 in) is 703 x 165 / 69 x 69 = 24.4, which is in the "Healthy weight" category.
Categories for adults
| BMI | Category |
|---|---|
| Below 18.5 | Underweight |
| 18.5 to 24.9 | Healthy weight |
| 25.0 to 29.9 | Overweight |
| 30.0 to 34.9 | Obesity, class 1 |
| 35.0 to 39.9 | Obesity, class 2 |
| 40.0 or higher | Obesity, class 3 |
These ranges apply to adults 20 and older (CDC). Children and teens are judged on growth charts by age and sex, so this calculator is not for them.
| Height | Weight range |
|---|---|
| 5 ft 0 in | 95 to 127 lb |
| 5 ft 2 in | 101 to 136 lb |
| 5 ft 4 in | 108 to 145 lb |
| 5 ft 6 in | 115 to 154 lb |
| 5 ft 8 in | 122 to 164 lb |
| 5 ft 10 in | 129 to 174 lb |
| 6 ft 0 in | 136 to 184 lb |
| 6 ft 2 in | 144 to 194 lb |
| 6 ft 4 in | 152 to 205 lb |
What BMI can and cannot tell you
BMI is a screening number. It does not separate muscle from fat, and it does not show where fat is carried. A muscular person can have a high BMI and little excess fat. The CDC says BMI should be considered with other factors. If you have questions about your weight, ask a health care provider.
Questions people ask
What is a healthy BMI?
For adults, 18.5 to 24.9 is considered the healthy weight range.
How do I calculate BMI in pounds?
Multiply your weight in pounds by 703 and divide by your height in inches squared.
Is BMI accurate?
It is a rough screen. It ignores muscle, bone and fat distribution, so it can mislead for some people.
Does BMI work for children?
No. For children and teens, doctors use growth charts that compare with others of the same age and sex.