What Is the Normal Blood Pressure for Each Age?
There is no single “normal” blood pressure number for every age. In general, healthy blood pressure targets are similar for most adults, but blood pressure tends to increase with age because blood vessels can become less flexible over time.
Blood pressure is measured as:
- Systolic pressure (top number): pressure when the heart beats
- Diastolic pressure (bottom number): pressure when the heart relaxes
General adult blood pressure ranges
| Age group | Typical healthy range (approximate) |
|---|---|
| Children | Varies greatly by age, height, and sex |
| Teens (13–17) | Around <120/80 mmHg is generally considered healthy |
| Adults (18–39) | Around 90/60 to <120/80 mmHg |
| Adults (40–59) | Around 90/60 to <120/80 mmHg (individual goals may vary) |
| Adults 60+ | Often targeted around <130/80 mmHg for many people, depending on health and medical advice |
Blood pressure categories for adults
- Normal: Less than 120/80 mmHg
- Elevated: 120–129 and less than 80
- High blood pressure (Stage 1): 130–139 or 80–89
- High blood pressure (Stage 2): 140 or higher or 90 or higher
- Hypertensive crisis: 180 and/or 120 or higher (requires urgent attention, especially with symptoms)
Important notes
- A single high reading does not always mean you have high blood pressure. Stress, pain, caffeine, exercise, and illness can temporarily raise it.
- Older adults may have different treatment goals depending on conditions such as heart disease, kidney disease, diabetes, or risk of falls.
- Home blood pressure readings can be useful when taken correctly.
Seek urgent medical care if blood pressure is 180/120 or higher and you have symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, severe headache, weakness, confusion, or vision changes.
If you share your age and your blood pressure reading (for example, 145/90), I can help explain what that number may mean.
