Height is a topic of interest and fascination for many people worldwide, and it's natural to wonder how tall people are in different countries. In our comprehensive guide, we explore the average heights of men and women across the globe, providing insight into how different nations and regions compare. From the towering Scandinavians to the petite Guatemalans, we'll take you on a journey through the continents to reveal the diverse height ranges found among the world's population.
On a global scale, the average height of men is approximately 5 feet 9 inches (175 cm), while the average height of women is around 5 feet 4 inches (162 cm). However, these averages can vary significantly depending on factors such as genetics, nutrition, and lifestyle. In the following sections, we'll delve into the specific height averages for different continents, countries, and regions, exploring the factors that contribute to these differences. Whether you're curious about the average height of people in your own country or want to compare the heights of different populations around the world, keep reading to discover more about the fascinating world of human height.
North America Average Height Male and Female
North America is a diverse continent consisting of three major countries: Canada, the United States, and Mexico. Each country has its unique cultural and political identity, as well as a rich history and vibrant society. From the vast wilderness of Canada's northern forests to the sun-drenched beaches of Mexico's Pacific coast, North America offers a wide range of landscapes and environments that have shaped the cultures and traditions of the people who call it home. Despite their differences, North American countries share many similarities, including a high standard of living, strong economies, and a rich cultural heritage.
Several factors can influence the average height of individuals in North America. One significant factor is genetics, as certain populations may have a genetic predisposition towards taller or shorter statures. Additionally, nutrition and access to healthcare can have a significant impact on height, as a well-balanced diet and proper medical care can promote healthy growth and development. Environmental factors, such as climate and altitude, may also play a role in determining average height. Finally, cultural factors, such as lifestyle and physical activity levels, can also contribute to height differences among North American populations.
| Country | Men | Women |
|---|---|---|
| Canada | 5 feet 10.5 in (179 cm) | 5 feet 5 in (165 cm) |
| Mexico | 5 feet 7 in (170 cm) | 5 feet 2 in (157 cm) |
| United States | 5 feet 10.1 in (178 cm) | 5 feet 4.2 in (163 cm) |
Central America Average Height by Country
Central America is a region located in the southernmost part of North America, comprising of seven countries including Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Panama. The region is bordered by Mexico to the north and Colombia to the south. The area is known for its rich biodiversity, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes, including rainforests, mountains, and beaches. The region has a combined population of around 50 million people, with Spanish being the most widely spoken language.
Malnutrition is a major issue in some areas of the region, which can result in stunted growth in children. Additionally, access to healthcare and sanitation can impact overall health and height. Some indigenous groups in the region, such as the Maya, have genetic traits that can result in shorter stature. On the other hand, modernization and changes in lifestyle, such as a shift to a more sedentary lifestyle, may also contribute to height differences.
| Country | Men | Women |
|---|---|---|
| Belize | 5 feet 7.3 in (171 cm) | 5 feet 2 in (158 cm) |
| Cuba | 5 feet 8.5 in (174 cm) | 5 feet 3 in (160 cm) |
| Costa Rica | 5 feet 8.5 in (174 cm) | 5 feet 3 in (160 cm) |
| El Salvador | 5 feet 7 in (170 cm) | 5 feet 1 in (156 cm) |
| Guatemala | 5 feet 4.6 in (164 cm) | 4 feet 11 in (151 cm) |
| Haiti | 5 feet 7 in (172 cm) | 5 feet 3 in (160 cm) |
| Honduras | 5 feet 6 in (168 cm) | 5 feet 2 in (158 cm) |
| Jamaica | 5 feet 9.7 in (177 cm) | 5 feet 4.6 in (164 cm) |
| Nicaragua | 5 feet 6 in (168 cm) | 5 feet 1.4 in (156 cm) |
| Panama | 5 feet 7 in (170 cm) | 5 feet 2 in (158 cm) |
South America Average Male and Female Heights
South America is a continent located in the Western Hemisphere, bordered by the Caribbean Sea to the northwest, the Atlantic Ocean to the east, and the Pacific Ocean to the west. It is home to 12 independent countries, including Brazil, Argentina, and Peru. The continent boasts diverse landscapes, including the Amazon rainforest, the Andes mountain range, and the Atacama Desert. It is also known for its rich cultural heritage, including indigenous traditions and vibrant music and dance styles such as salsa, tango, and samba.
Many South American countries have diverse ethnic and racial populations, which can contribute to variations in height. For example, the average height in Bolivia, where the majority of the population is indigenous, is generally lower than that of neighboring countries with more diverse populations. Additionally, socioeconomic factors such as poverty and inequality can also affect access to adequate nutrition and healthcare, which may impact height.
| Country | Men | Women |
|---|---|---|
| Argentina | 5 feet 8.9 inches (175 cm) | 5 feet 3.4 inches (161 cm) |
| Bolivia | 5 feet 6.1 inches (168 cm) | 5 feet 1.4 inches (156 cm) |
| Brazil | 5 feet 9.3 inches (176 cm) | 5 feet 3.8 inches (162 cm) |
| Chile | 5 feet 8.1 inches (173 cm) | 5 feet 2.6 inches (159 cm) |
| Colombia | 5 feet 7.7 inches (172 cm) | 5 feet 2.2 inches (158 cm) |
| Ecuador | 5 feet 5.7 inches (167 cm) | 5 feet 1 inch (155 cm) |
| Guyana | 5 feet 7.7 inches (172 cm) | 5 feet 3 inches (160 cm) |
| Paraguay | 5 feet 8.5 inches (174 cm) | 5 feet 3 inches (160 cm) |
| Peru | 5 feet 5.7 inches (167 cm) | 5 feet 0.6 inches (154 cm) |
| Suriname | 5 feet 8.9 inches (175 cm) | 5 feet 3.8 inches (162 cm) |
| Uruguay | 5 feet 8.5 inches (174 cm) | 5 feet 3.8 inches (162 cm) |
| Venezuela | 5 feet 8.1 inches (173 cm) | 5 feet 3 inches (160 cm) |
European Union Average Heights
The European Union (EU) is a political and economic union of 27 member states located primarily in Europe. It was established after World War II to foster economic cooperation and prevent further conflicts between European countries. The EU operates through a system of supranational institutions and intergovernmental negotiated decisions, and it has developed policies in areas such as trade, agriculture, and environmental protection. The EU also allows for free movement of people, goods, services, and capital among member states.
The EU member states have a wide range of living standards, with countries like Germany and Sweden having high standards of living, while other countries like Romania and Bulgaria have lower standards of living. These differences may impact the average height of people in those countries. Additionally, cultural and historical factors may play a role, as some countries place greater emphasis on physical fitness and outdoor activities, which may affect the average height of their populations.
| Country | Men | Women |
|---|---|---|
| Austria | 5 feet 10.1 inches (178 cm) | 5 feet 5.3 inches (166 cm) |
| Belgium | 5 feet 10.5 inches (179 cm) | 5 feet 4.6 inches (164 cm) |
| Bulgaria | 5 feet 8.1 inches (173 cm) | 5 feet 4.6 inches (164 cm) |
| Croatia | 5 feet 11.3 inches (181 cm) | 5 feet 5.7 inches (167 cm) |
| Cyprus | 5 feet 8.9 inches (175 cm) | 5 feet 4.6 inches (164 cm) |
| Czechia | 5 feet 11.3 inches (181 cm) | 5 feet 6.1 inches (168 cm) |
| Denmark | 5 feet 11.7 inches (182 cm) | 5 feet 6.5 inches (169 cm) |
| Estonia | 6 feet 0 inches (183 cm) | 5 feet 6.1 inches (168 cm) |
| Finland | 5 feet 10.9 inches (180 cm) | 5 feet 5.4 inches (166 cm) |
| France | 5 feet 10.1 inches (178 cm) | 5 feet 4.6 inches (164 cm) |
| Germany | 5 feet 10.9 inches (180 cm) | 5 feet 5.4 inches (166 cm) |
| Greece | 5 feet 10.5 inches (179 cm) | 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm) |
| Hungary | 5 feet 9.3 inches (176 cm) | 5 feet 3.8 inches (162 cm) |
| Ireland | 5 feet 10.5 inches (179 cm) | 5 feet 4.6 inches (164 cm) |
| Italy | 5 feet 8.5 inches (174 cm) | 5 feet 3.4 inches (161 cm) |
| Latvia | 5 feet 11.3 inches (181 cm) | 5 feet 6.1 inches (168 cm) |
| Lithuania | 5 feet 10.9 inches (180 cm) | 5 feet 5.7 inches (167 cm) |
| Luxembourg | 5 feet 10.1 inches (178 cm) | 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm) |
| Malta | 5 feet 7.7 inches (172 cm) | 5 feet 3.4 inches (161 cm) |
| Netherlands | 6 feet 0.4 inches (184 cm) | 5 feet 6.9 inches (170 cm) |
| Poland | 5 feet 10.9 inches (180 cm) | 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm) |
| Portugal | 5 feet 8.5 inches (174 cm) | 5 feet 3.4 inches (161 cm) |
| Romania | 5 feet 9.7 inches (177 cm) | 5 feet 4.6 inches (164 cm) |
| Slovakia | 5 feet 11.3 inches (181 cm) | 5 feet 5.7 inches (167 cm) |
| Slovenia | 5 feet 11.3 inches (181 cm) | 5 feet 5.7 inches (167 cm) |
| Spain | 5 feet 9.3 inches (176 cm) | 5 feet 3.8 inches (162 cm) |
| Sweden | 5 feet 10.9 inches (180 cm) | 5 feet 6.1 inches (168 cm) |
Europe Average Heights Continued (Non-EU)
Non-EU Europe includes countries in Eastern Europe, the Balkans, and the Caucasus region. These countries have a rich cultural heritage and diverse populations with different ethnic groups, religions, and languages. The region has a mix of modern cities, historic towns, and rural areas with unique landscapes and natural resources. The economy of this region is varied, with some countries being industrialized and others relying on agriculture and natural resources.
The average height in non-EU European countries is influenced by several factors, such as genetics, nutrition, healthcare, and lifestyle. In the past, many of these countries faced challenges with access to adequate nutrition and healthcare, which led to stunted growth and lower average heights. However, in recent years, there have been improvements in healthcare and nutrition, which have contributed to an increase in the average height in many countries. The region's diverse ethnic and cultural makeup may also play a role in the variation of heights within and between countries.
| Country | Men | Women |
|---|---|---|
| Albania | 5 feet 8.5 inches (174 cm) | 5 feet 3.8 inches (162 cm) |
| Andorra | 5 feet 10.1 inches (178 cm) | 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm) |
| Belarus | 5 feet 10.1 inches (178 cm) | 5 feet 5.3 inches (166 cm) |
| Bosnia and Herzegovina | 6 feet 0 inches (183 cm) | 5 feet 5.7 inches (167 cm) |
| Bulgaria | 5 feet 8.1 inches (173 cm) | 5 feet 4.6 inches (164 cm) |
| Georgia | 5 feet 8.9 inches (175 cm) | 5 feet 4.2 inches (163 cm) |
| Iceland | 5 feet 11.7 inches (182 cm) | 5 feet 6.1 inches (168 cm) |
| Montenegro | 6 feet 0 inches (183 cm) | 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm) |
| North Macedonia | 5 feet 10.5 inches (179 cm) | 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm) |
| Norway | 5 feet 10.9 inches (180 cm) | 5 feet 5.4 inches (166 cm) |
| Russia | 5 feet 9.3 inches (176 cm) | 5 feet 4.6 inches (164 cm) |
| San Marino | 5 feet 10.1 inches (178 cm) | 5 feet 4.6 inches (164 cm) |
| Serbia | 5 feet 10.9 inches (180 cm) | 5 feet 6.1 inches (168 cm) |
| Switzerland | 5 feet 10.5 inches (179 cm) | 5 feet 4.6 inches (164 cm) |
| Ukraine | 5 feet 10.9 inches (180 cm) | 5 feet 5.4 inches (166 cm) |
| United Kingdom | 5 feet 10.1 inches (178 cm) | 5 feet 4.6 inches (164 cm) |
Oceana Average Heights:
Oceania is a region made up of thousands of islands in the Pacific Ocean, including Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Fiji, and many others. The region is characterized by its diverse geography, with everything from coral reefs to volcanoes, and it is home to a rich variety of cultures, languages, and traditions. Oceania has a total population of around 42 million people, and its countries are a mix of developed, developing, and least developed nations.
Many factors can influence the heights of people in Oceania, including genetics, nutrition, and access to healthcare. In countries like Australia and New Zealand, where people generally have good access to healthcare and a diverse and plentiful food supply, average heights are relatively high. However, in Papua New Guinea and other countries with high rates of poverty and malnutrition, average heights are lower. Additionally, cultural factors may play a role, with certain island nations in Oceania valuing larger body sizes and viewing them as a symbol of strength and health. Overall, the heights of people in Oceania are influenced by a complex interplay of factors, and vary widely depending on the specific country and region.
| Country | Men | Women |
|---|---|---|
| Australia | 5 feet 10.5 inches (179 cm) | 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm) |
| Fiji | 5 feet 8.5 inches (174 cm) | 5 feet 4.6 inches (164 cm) |
| New Zealand | 5 feet 10.1 inches (178 cm) | 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm) |
| Papua New Guinea | 5 feet 4.2 inches (163 cm) | 5 feet 1.8 inches (157 cm) |
| Vanuatu | 5 feet 6.1 inches (168 cm) | 5 feet 3 inches (160 cm) |
Africa Average Heights of Men and Women
Africa is the second-largest continent in the world, with a diverse range of cultures, languages, and landscapes. It is home to over 1.2 billion people and comprises 54 countries, each with its own unique history and traditions. The continent is known for its vast deserts, dense rainforests, expansive savannas, and diverse wildlife, including the "Big Five" game animals: lions, elephants, leopards, rhinoceroses, and Cape buffalos. Africa is also rich in natural resources, including oil, gas, minerals, and agricultural land. Despite facing challenges such as poverty, political instability, and disease, Africa continues to grow and develop, with many countries experiencing economic growth and improved living standards in recent years.
There are several contributing factors to the average heights in Africa. Genetics is one important factor, as height is partially determined by an individual's genes. However, factors such as poor nutrition and limited access to healthcare can also impact height. Malnutrition during childhood can lead to stunted growth and reduced height in adulthood. Additionally, socioeconomic status and environmental factors, such as exposure to infectious diseases, may also play a role in determining average height in African countries.
| Country | Men | Women |
|---|---|---|
| Algeria | 5 feet 8.5 inches (174 cm) | 5 feet 3.8 inches (162 cm) |
| Burundi | 5 feet 5.8 inches (167 cm) | 5 feet 1 inches (155 cm) |
| Cameroon | 5 feet 7.3 inches (171 cm) | 5 feet 3 inches (160 cm) |
| Chad | 5 feet 7.3 inches (171 cm) | 5 feet 3.8 inches (162 cm) |
| Congo (Dem. Republic) | 5 feet 6 inches (168 cm) | 5 feet 1.4 inches (156 cm) |
| Egypt | 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm) | 5 feet 3 inches (160 cm) |
| Eritrea | 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm) | 5 feet 1.8 inches (157 cm) |
| Ethiopia | 5 feet 6 inches (168 cm) | 5 feet 1.8 inches (157 cm) |
| Ghana | 5 feet 6.5 inches (169 cm) | 5 feet 2.6 inches (159 cm) |
| Kenya | 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm) | 5 feet 2.6 inches (159 cm) |
| Madagascar | 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm) | 5 feet 0.2 inches (153 cm) |
| Morocco | 5 feet 8.9 inches (175 cm) | 5 feet 3.4 inches (161 cm) |
| Nigeria | 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm) | 5 feet 2.2 inches (158 cm) |
| Somalia | 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm) | 5 feet 2.6 inches (159 cm) |
| South Africa | 5 feet 6.5 inches (169 cm) | 5 feet 2.2 inches (158 cm) |
| Sudan | 5 feet 7.3 inches (171 cm) | 5 feet 3 inches (160 cm) |
| Zimbabwe | 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm) | 5 feet 3 inches (160 cm) |
Why Does Height Matter?
Height, a seemingly simple physical attribute, is actually a complex and multifaceted aspect of human biology. It is influenced by a multitude of factors such as genetics, nutrition, and access to healthcare. Additionally, average height varies not only between countries and regions but also within them, depending on various factors like race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and geographic location.
In recent years, there has been a general trend of increasing average height in many parts of the world, thanks to improvements in nutrition, access to healthcare, and lifestyle changes. However, being tall has its own set of advantages and challenges.
Tall individuals are often seen as dominant, confident, and capable, which can give them an edge in certain social situations. But the relationship between height and social advantage is far from straightforward and depends on the context and culture. While height may be an important indicator of social status or attractiveness in some cultures, it may hold less significance in others.
Despite the perceived advantages of being tall, there are also challenges associated with it. Tall people may struggle to fit into small spaces, have difficulty finding clothing that fits properly, and may be more prone to certain health problems like back pain.
It is important to remember that height is just one aspect of a person's physical appearance and should not be used as a measure of their worth. A person's success in life is determined by a multitude of factors, including their skills, talents, and character traits.
