BMI Reference Ranges for Children and Teens by Age and Sex

Average BMI Ranges (CDC Growth Charts)

Values are approximate 5th–85th percentile ranges for each age/sex group. Individual assessment by a pediatrician is essential.

Age	Boys (kg/m²)	Girls (kg/m²)
0–1 yr	14.0–18.0	13.8–17.8
2–3 yr	14.9–18.9	14.6–18.6
4–5 yr	15.8–19.8	15.6–19.6
6–7 yr	16.6–20.6	16.5–20.5
8–9 yr	17.4–21.4	17.3–21.3
10–11 yr	18.2–22.2	18.1–22.1
12–13 yr	19.0–23.0	18.9–22.9
14–15 yr	19.8–23.8	19.7–23.7

Interpretation

BMI-for-age percentiles are used, not fixed cutoffs. Underweight: <5th %ile; Healthy: 5th–85th; Overweight: 85th–95th; Obese: >95th. Always discuss with a clinician.