Normal blood pressure by age
A common misconception is that there is a different “normal” blood pressure for every decade of adulthood. For adults, normal blood pressure is generally below 120/80 mmHg regardless of age. www.heart.org+1
| Age | General adult reference |
|---|---|
| 18–39 | <120/80 mmHg |
| 40–59 | <120/80 mmHg |
| 60–69 | <120/80 mmHg |
| 70–79 | <120/80 mmHg |
| 80+ | No separate age-based “normal” number; treatment targets are individualized |
How to interpret a reading
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Below 120/80: Normal
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120–129 and <80: Elevated
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130–139 or 80–89: Stage 1 hypertension
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≥140 or ≥90: Stage 2 hypertension www.heart.org
These categories apply to adults. Children and teenagers use age-, sex-, and height-specific references.
Also, don’t diagnose hypertension from one reading. Repeated, properly measured readings are much more informative. For home monitoring, an appropriately sized upper-arm cuff is generally preferred. www.heart.org
If your reading is over 180/120 mmHg, repeat it after a brief rest. If it remains that high, seek urgent medical advice; if it occurs with chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness/numbness, vision changes, or difficulty speaking, seek emergency care immediately. www.heart.org
