WorldCalcs

Ideal Weight Calculator

Estimate ideal body weight from height and sex using four standard formulas.

Reviewed by the WorldCalcs team · Methodology · Last reviewed: June 2026

Formulakglb
Devine73.0160.9
Robinson71.0156.5
Miller70.3155.0
Hamwi75.0165.3

This is a general estimate, not medical advice. A healthy weight is individual — talk to a healthcare professional. See our Disclaimer.

What is ideal body weight?

Ideal body weight is a rough target range for how much a person of a given height might weigh. Several formulas exist (Devine, Robinson, Miller and Hamwi), each developed for medical dosing or insurance and giving slightly different numbers. They are guides, not strict rules: a healthy weight depends on build, muscle, age and individual factors. This calculator shows all four estimates side by side.

How it's calculated

Each formula starts from a base weight at 5 feet (60 inches) and adds a fixed amount per inch above that. For example, the Devine formula for men is 50 kg + 2.3 kg per inch over 5 feet; for women it is 45.5 kg + 2.3 kg per inch. Robinson, Miller and Hamwi use different bases and increments, which is why the results differ a little.

Example

For a man who is 5 feet 10 inches (10 inches over 5 feet), the estimates are about Devine 73.0 kg, Robinson 71.0 kg, Miller 70.3 kg and Hamwi 75.0 kg. For a woman at 5 feet 5 inches, they are about 57.0, 57.5, 59.9 and 56.5 kg.

All calculations happen in your browser. Nothing is sent, stored, or tracked.

Results are estimates and may contain errors — for general information only, not professional advice. Always verify before relying on them. Disclaimer

How to use

Choose metric or imperial, pick sex and enter your height. The tool shows four ideal-weight estimates side by side so you can see the range.

Treat the numbers as a guideline. They use only height and sex, so build, age and body composition still matter.

Frequently asked questions

Which ideal weight formula is best?+

There is no single best; Devine is the most widely used, but seeing all four gives a sensible range.

Why do the formulas give different numbers?+

Each was developed for a different purpose and uses a different base weight and per-inch increment.

Is ideal weight the same as a healthy weight?+

Not exactly; these formulas ignore build and muscle, so use them alongside BMI and body fat. See our BMI Calculator.

Does ideal weight account for muscle?+

No; a muscular person may healthily weigh more than these estimates suggest.

How is ideal weight calculated?+

From a base weight at 5 feet plus a set amount for each inch of height above that.

Should I aim exactly for my ideal weight?+

No; treat it as a rough range and focus on overall health with professional guidance.

Does it work for all heights?+

The formulas are designed for adults and become less reliable at very short or very tall heights.

What else should I look at?+

BMI and body fat percentage give a fuller picture; see our Body Fat Calculator.

References

  • Devine BJ (1974), Robinson JD et al. (1983), Miller DR et al. (1983) and Hamwi GJ (1964) ideal body weight formulas.

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