Ideal Weight Calculator
Compare four classic medical formulas for ideal body weight.
Estimate ideal body weight from height and gender using four well-established clinical formulas — Hamwi, Devine, Robinson, and Miller — shown side by side for comparison.
Ideal weight by height
| Height | Hamwi | Devine | Robinson | Miller | Healthy BMI range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Woman, 5'4" | 119.7 lb | 120.6 lb | 123.0 lb | 129.1 lb | 108–145 lb |
| Woman, 5'6" | 129.4 lb | 130.7 lb | 130.5 lb | 135.1 lb | 115–154 lb |
| Man, 5'9" | 159.4 lb | 155.9 lb | 152.3 lb | 151.9 lb | 125–169 lb |
| Man, 6'0" | 177.3 lb | 171.1 lb | 164.9 lb | 161.2 lb | 136–184 lb |
The last column shows the weights that give a BMI of 18.5–24.9 at that height, the range the CDC calls healthy for adults. It's often a more useful target than a single number.
The formulas
Each formula starts from a base weight at 5 feet tall and adds a fixed amount for every inch above that:
| Formula | Men | Women |
|---|---|---|
| Hamwi (1964) | 48.0 kg + 2.7 kg per inch | 45.5 kg + 2.2 kg per inch |
| Devine (1974) | 50.0 kg + 2.3 kg per inch | 45.5 kg + 2.3 kg per inch |
| Robinson (1983) | 52.0 kg + 1.9 kg per inch | 49.0 kg + 1.7 kg per inch |
| Miller (1983) | 56.2 kg + 1.41 kg per inch | 53.1 kg + 1.36 kg per inch |
Because they only use height and sex, these formulas are best treated as a rough reference. Your healthy weight also depends on muscle, frame size, age and health conditions — a doctor or registered dietitian can help you set a personal target.
Frequently asked questions
Why are there four different results?
These are four separate formulas developed decades apart (Hamwi 1964, Devine 1974, Robinson 1983, Miller 1983), each still referenced in clinical and pharmacy settings. They agree roughly but not exactly, which is a useful reminder that "ideal weight" is an estimate, not a single precise target.
Why is the Devine formula still used today?
Devine weight is commonly used in medicine to calculate drug dosages, since many medications are dosed relative to lean body weight rather than actual body weight.
Does this account for muscle mass or body frame?
No — like BMI, these formulas use only height and gender, so they don't account for muscle mass, bone density, or frame size. Use the result as a general reference range, not an exact target.
What is the ideal weight for a 5'4" woman?
The four formulas give about 120–129 lb. The CDC's healthy BMI range for that height is wider, about 108–145 lb.
Why doesn't this work for people under 5 feet?
All four formulas were built from a starting weight at exactly 5 feet and add weight for each inch above it, so they aren't defined for shorter heights. The healthy BMI range is a better guide below 5 feet.
This tool provides a general reference range and isn't medical advice.