Ideal Weight Calculator – Estimate Your Healthy Weight Range
Compare three historical height-based estimates and add your current weight for optional BMI context.
How this calculator helps
Height-based weight formulas can disagree because they were developed from different populations and assumptions. Comparing them gives you a range of reference points instead of presenting one number as a personal target.
Methods: Devine, Robinson, and Miller estimates are calculated from height and the formula reference sex. Each result includes a broad ±10% comparison range.
Optional context: Enter your current weight to see your BMI and compare it with the standard adult BMI screening range. BMI does not measure body fat directly and is not a diagnosis.
Worked example: A 5-foot-8 woman receives three estimates because the methods use different equations; the spread is more informative than treating one result as the correct answer.
- Inputs: Use your own values for the fields below.
- Comparison: Review all three methods and look at how far apart their estimates are.
- Output: Treat the ranges as reference points, not strict targets to hit.
What the result means
Ideal weight formulas like Devine, Robinson, and Miller were originally developed decades ago for clinical reference, including medication-dosing contexts, rather than to define a personal fitness target. Each produces a different number because the equations use different assumptions.
The estimates use height and formula reference sex alone. They do not account for muscle mass, bone density, body composition, age, pregnancy, or medical conditions. Someone with a muscular build may fall above these estimates while still being healthy.
If you enter current weight, the BMI result is another screening reference, not a diagnosis. Use these numbers alongside your health history, strength, energy, and other measures rather than treating them as a strict target.
How the formulas differ
| Formula | Female base | Male base | Increment per inch over 5 ft |
|---|---|---|---|
| Devine | 45.5 lb | 50 lb | 2.3 lb |
| Robinson | 49 lb | 52 lb | 1.7 / 1.9 lb |
| Miller | 53.1 lb | 56.2 lb | 1.36 / 1.41 lb |
Related calculators
Calorie maintenance, Protein intake, and Steps to distance are closely related to this estimate.
Frequently asked questions
- Why do formulas disagree with each other? Devine, Robinson, and Miller use different equations and reference assumptions, so the same height produces different estimates.
- Does frame size matter? Yes. Frame size, muscle mass, bone density, and body composition can make a person healthy above or below a height-based estimate.
- Is the BMI result a diagnosis? No. BMI is a population-level screening measure that should be interpreted with other health information.
- Should athletes use this number as a goal? Not by itself. Muscular builds can exceed formula-based ranges while remaining healthy.
Creator & reviewers
Creator persona
- Quinn ParkerWellness & nutrition estimates
Reviewer personas
- Casey RowanUnits, conversions & measurement
- Sage MitchellClarity & usability review