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Adult BMI categories
| BMI | Category |
|---|---|
| Below 18.5 | Underweight |
| 18.5 – 24.9 | Healthy weight |
| 25 – 29.9 | Overweight |
| 30 – 34.9 | Obesity class 1 |
| 35 – 39.9 | Obesity class 2 |
| 40 and above | Obesity class 3 |
These are the categories used by the CDC and the World Health Organization.12 Categories are based on BMI rounded to one decimal place, so 24.96 counts as 25.0, overweight.
What each category means
Underweight (below 18.5). Weight is low for height. It can reflect a naturally slim build, but it can also go with undernutrition, illness or reduced bone strength.
Healthy weight (18.5 to 24.9). The range linked with the lowest risk of weight-related health problems for most adults.
Overweight (25 to 29.9). Weight is above the healthy range for height. Risk of conditions like type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure starts to rise,2 though muscle can also put people here. BMI for athletes.
Obesity, class 1, 2 and 3 (30 and above). Weight is well above the healthy range. Health risks increase through the classes.
BMI is a screening tool, not a diagnosis. It doesn't measure body fat or health directly; a doctor considers it alongside other measures.
Other category systems
- Children and teens (2 to 19) use percentiles for age and sex instead: below the 5th underweight, 5th to below the 85th healthy, 85th to below the 95th overweight, 95th and above obesity.3 BMI for kids · teens.
- Adults of Asian descent may be assessed with lower cutoffs: 23 for overweight and 27.5 for obesity.4 Asian BMI.
- During pregnancy, pre-pregnancy BMI sets weight-gain goals instead. BMI during pregnancy.
Frequently asked questions
Is a BMI of 25 overweight?
Yes. 25.0 is the start of the overweight range for adults.
What BMI is considered obese?
30 or more for adults. Under the lower cutoffs used for people of Asian descent, 27.5 or more.
Do the categories change with age?
Not for adults. The same categories apply from age 20. Some research suggests slightly higher BMIs aren't linked with extra risk in older adults. BMI for older adults.
Sources
This page is for education and is not medical advice. Talk with a healthcare professional about your weight and health.
