Body mass index is weight divided by height squared. In US units: BMI = 703 × weight (lb) ÷ height (in)². The CDC uses these adult categories: underweight below 18.5, healthy weight 18.5 to under 25, overweight 25 to under 30, and obesity 30 or more (class 1: 30 to under 35, class 2: 35 to under 40, class 3: 40 or more).
Weight ranges by height (lb)
| Height | Underweight | Healthy weight | Overweight | Obesity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4′10″ (147 cm) | under 89 | 89–119 | 120–143 | 144+ |
| 5′0″ (152 cm) | under 95 | 95–127 | 128–153 | 154+ |
| 5′2″ (157 cm) | under 101 | 101–136 | 137–163 | 164+ |
| 5′4″ (163 cm) | under 108 | 108–145 | 146–174 | 175+ |
| 5′6″ (168 cm) | under 115 | 115–154 | 155–185 | 186+ |
| 5′8″ (173 cm) | under 122 | 122–163 | 164–196 | 197+ |
| 5′10″ (178 cm) | under 129 | 129–173 | 174–208 | 209+ |
| 6′0″ (183 cm) | under 136 | 136–183 | 184–220 | 221+ |
| 6′2″ (188 cm) | under 144 | 144–194 | 195–233 | 234+ |
| 6′4″ (193 cm) | under 152 | 152–204 | 205–245 | 246+ |
Ranges are rounded to the nearest pound. For children and teens, BMI is interpreted with age- and sex-specific percentiles instead, so this chart does not apply.
Limits of BMI
The CDC describes BMI as a screening tool, not a diagnosis. It does not measure body fat directly and does not tell muscle from fat. Talk to a healthcare provider about your own health.
Frequently asked questions
What is a healthy BMI for adults?
The CDC classes 18.5 to under 25 as healthy weight.
Does this chart work for children?
No. Children and teens use BMI-for-age percentiles.
Sources
Last reviewed 2026-10-29. General information only, not medical, financial or legal advice.