Is 5 ft 8 inch a good height? Understanding Perception vs. Reality

September 29, 2025 •

4 min read

While societal perceptions often influence our views on stature, global health data provides a more objective perspective. Understanding these statistics is key to answering the question: Is 5 ft 8 inch a good height? The answer, as it turns out, is more complex and far more positive than many might assume.

Quick Summary

This article provides a balanced perspective on a 5'8" height, moving beyond subjective biases to examine global averages and health considerations. It explains why height is a poor metric for self-worth, offers tips for boosting confidence regardless of stature, and discusses the factors that truly contribute to a healthy life.

Key Points

Height Perception is Subjective: What is considered 'good' or 'average' height varies significantly across different countries and cultures, making it an entirely subjective measurement.
5'8" is Globably Average: At 5'8", men are near the global average height, while women are considered quite tall in many parts of the world, including the US.
Confidence Outweighs Height: Self-confidence and personality play a much larger role in attractiveness and social success than physical stature.
Health is About Lifestyle: Your overall health is primarily determined by factors like diet, exercise, and genetics, not your height. Very tall individuals can even face more spinal issues.
Own Your Strengths: You can boost your perceived stature and confidence by improving posture and dressing in a way that flatters your body type.
Reject Societal Standards: Don't let societal pressures or media portrayals dictate your self-worth. Embrace your unique genetic makeup and focus on personal growth and inner qualities.

Demystifying the 'Good' Height Standard

What is Considered Average Height Globally and in the U.S.?

According to global health data, the average male height worldwide is approximately 5 feet 8.1 inches, making 5'8" very close to the international median. In the United States, the average for adult males is slightly higher, at 5 feet 9.7 inches. For women, 5'8" is considered quite tall in many parts of the world, including the US, where the average female height is about 5'4".

This discrepancy between global and US averages highlights how perception can be influenced by location. While 5'8" might be slightly below the national average for men in the US, it's right on par with the global average. This demonstrates that 'average' is not a fixed, universal standard and is heavily influenced by geography and demographic factors.

Height's Impact Beyond Numbers

Confidence and Personality: The Real Attractors

It's easy to get caught up in numerical measurements, but a person's confidence and personality are far more significant factors in how they are perceived. Research and anecdotal evidence suggest that confidence, sense of humor, and overall demeanor are what truly make a person attractive and successful.

Many studies and dating coaches emphasize that once a relationship is established, factors like personality and chemistry far outweigh initial physical attributes. The idea that height is a dealbreaker is often overblown, especially in the context of long-term partnerships. The key is to project a positive self-image, focusing on attributes you can control, rather than those you cannot.

Health Implications of Height

While extreme height can present certain health challenges, a height of 5'8" is generally associated with a healthy stature. For example, some studies suggest that very tall individuals may face a higher risk of spinal issues over time due to the increased load on their skeletal structure. Individuals of average height often experience fewer of these issues, enjoying the benefits of a balanced and proportionate physique. Furthermore, your overall health is determined by lifestyle factors—diet, exercise, and genetics—much more than by your height.

Practical Tips for Boosting Confidence at Any Height

It's important to remember that self-worth is not tied to a number on a measuring tape. If you find yourself concerned about your height, here are a few practical steps you can take:

Focus on Posture: Standing up straight, with your shoulders back and head held high, can make you appear taller and project confidence. It also offers health benefits by supporting your spine and improving circulation.
Embrace Your Style: Dressing to accentuate your strengths can change your entire outlook. Avoid clothing that is too baggy or ill-fitting. Instead, choose tailored pieces that create a streamlined look. For men, vertical stripes and monochrome outfits can create the illusion of added height.
Build Your Body: While you can't change your height, you can build a strong, proportionate physique. Regular exercise, including strength training, can improve your physical presence and boost your self-esteem.

Reclaiming Your Narrative

Height is just one of many physical characteristics. Placing too much emphasis on it, especially in the age of social media where statistics can feel overwhelming, can be detrimental to self-esteem. The rise of body positivity and a more equitable perspective on beauty standards means that society is increasingly valuing a diverse range of body types.

Instead of viewing height as a limitation, consider it as a part of your unique genetic makeup. Your value as a person comes from your intelligence, humor, kindness, and personal achievements—not from a number. Shifting your focus from what you can't control to what you can is a powerful way to enhance your quality of life.

The Average vs. the Ideal


Aspect	5'8" Male	5'8" Female	Comments
Global Average	Slightly above average.	Considered tall.	Varies by country; overall healthy range.
US Average	Slightly below average.	Above average.	US averages for height are slightly higher than global.
Health	Associated with lower risk of certain spinal issues compared to very tall individuals.	A healthy and average stature with no inherent health disadvantages.	Health is more about lifestyle than stature.
Perception	Often viewed as average to slightly short in some US circles.	Generally seen as tall and confident.	Confidence and personality are more influential on perception.
Dating	Desirability depends heavily on personality, confidence, and other factors.	Often viewed as attractive, but preferences vary.	Focus on building personal value and confidence.

Conclusion: Your Height Is Just a Number

Ultimately, the concept of a "good" height is subjective and influenced by cultural and societal factors rather than any objective truth. For both men and women, 5'8" is a perfectly normal and healthy stature, falling within the average range in many parts of the world. Placing your self-worth on such a narrow metric is unproductive. Instead, focus on embracing who you are, building confidence, and prioritizing a healthy lifestyle. Your character, achievements, and relationships are what truly define you, not the distance between your head and the floor.

To learn more about the science of human growth and development, you can visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) official website at https://www.cdc.gov/.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, it is. The global average for male height is very close to 5'8". In the US, it's only slightly below the national average. However, confidence and personality are far more significant factors in how a man is perceived.

Yes, absolutely. For a woman, 5'8" is considered tall in the US and many other countries, well above the average female height.

While some people have preferences, numerous studies and anecdotal accounts show that personality, humor, and confidence are much more important for dating success than height.

A height of 5'8" is considered a healthy stature. Some health professionals note that individuals of more moderate height may have a lower risk of certain issues, like spinal problems, that can affect very tall people.

Focus on improving your posture, dressing in well-fitting clothes that accentuate your physique, and building your body through exercise. Most importantly, focus on your strengths and inner qualities.

A person's height is primarily determined by a combination of genetics and nutrition. Other factors, like hormones and childhood health, also play a role.

No, average height varies significantly by country and ethnicity. For example, the average height in the Netherlands is higher than in the United States, which is higher than the global average.