Ever wondered what the ‘average woman’ really weighs, and what that number actually means for you

So you're scrolling through your feed, maybe comparing yourself to models, celebrities, or just wondering, “What is the average weight for women anyway?” Good question. There’s no perfect answer, every body is different, but we do have some stats and a decent idea of what’s typical. And understanding that “average” can help you see where you fit (or don’t need to worry about) in the big picture.

Let’s start with the data: For adult women in the U.S., the average weight is around 170.8 pounds (about 77.5 kg) for women aged 20 and older. The average height of those women is about 63.5 inches (which is just about 5 ft 4 in) in many studies. So right away, you see: “average weight” doesn’t mean “ideal” or “healthy for everyone,” but rather “this many women fall into this range, statistically speaking.”

Why that weight? Many factors. Body size has changed over decades (we’re taller in some places, heavier in others). Also: lifestyle, diet, genetics, metabolism, the prevalence of sedentary jobs or technology, and even broader social environments matter. One big point: As women age, weight tends to increase (e.g., more in midlife) because of hormonal shifts, slower metabolism, changes in body composition (less muscle, more fat) and fewer opportunities (or time) for high activity.

The average number is useful because it gives us a snapshot. But here’s the friendly reminder: averages don’t dictate you. You might naturally weigh more or less; you might be taller or shorter; muscle vs fat ratio changes everything. For example, one chart shows for women of specific heights: if you’re 5′4″, a “normal” weight range might be somewhere between roughly 110 to 144 lbs for “normal” (per one guideline) - though again, definitions vary.
What to Take Away

• Seeing “average ~170 lbs” doesn’t mean you should weigh 170 lbs to be “normal.” It simply means many adult women in a certain country fall around that number.

• Health isn’t just a number on the scale. Your body composition (how much muscle vs fat), your height, your lifestyle habits (movement, nutrition, sleep, stress) all matter.

• The fact that the average weight is higher than what many old “ideal weight” charts suggested tells us something: Our society has changed (diet, activity, environment). What once felt “heavy” is now more common.

• Use the “average” as a reference point, not a goal. Focus on feeling well, moving well, eating in a way that fuels you, and letting your body do its thing.

Why This Matters for You

If you’re reading this, maybe you’re thinking: “Am I too heavy?” or “Am I underweight?” Knowing the average helps you see whether you’re within the common range, and that can help reduce anxiety. If you’re way off the average, it doesn’t automatically mean something’s wrong, just that maybe you have a different body type, genetic makeup, or lifestyle. If you do want to adjust your weight (up or down) for health reasons, the conversation becomes why and how, not just what number.

Also, if you coach or train people (and I know many reading this might), the average gives useful context when discussing “typical” numbers with clients. It’s a tool, not a rule.

So yeah,

the average weight for women (in many Western countries) sits around ~170 lbs/77 kg. But remember: your body is unique, “average” is just a reference, and your focus should be on habits, wellbeing and what feel good in your body rather than hitting a specific number. Keep moving forward, keep being kind to your body, and use these stats as info, not pressure.