What Are Normal Testosterone Levels by Age?

One of the first questions men ask when they suspect low T is, "What should my testosterone level even be at my age?" It's a logical question rooted in a desire for a benchmark. This guide will give you the charts and data you're looking for, but more importantly, it will teach you why that question is the beginning, not the end, of understanding your hormonal health.

The Problem with "Normal" Ranges

Before we look at the charts, you must understand how lab "reference ranges" are created. They are not a measure of optimal health. They are a statistical average of all the people—healthy, unhealthy, young, and old—that the lab has tested.

Asking for the "normal" testosterone level for a 50-year-old is like asking for the average grade in a classroom. The average might be a C-, but you don't aspire to be a C- student. You aspire to be an A+ student.

It's a scientific fact that testosterone levels decline with age. Therefore, the "normal" range for a 60-year-old is significantly lower than for a 25-year-old. But the symptoms of low testosterone—fatigue, low libido, brain fog—are the same regardless of your age.

Average Testosterone Levels by Age: The Data Chart

With that crucial context in mind, here are the widely accepted average Total Testosterone ranges for men by age group. These are typically measured in nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL).

The Goalpost Shift: From "Normal for Your Age" to "Optimal"

Looking at the chart, you can see the problem. A 55-year-old man with a level of 260 ng/dL would be considered "normal" by most labs. However, he would likely be experiencing severe symptoms of low T. This is why modern hormone specialists focus on an Optimal Range.

The goal of TRT is not to make you "normal for your age." It is to restore your hormonal levels to what they were when you were in your prime, allowing you to feel and perform your best.

The Number That Truly Matters: Free Testosterone

As we explain in our guide to Total vs. Free T, the Total Testosterone number is only part of the story. The truly important number is your bioavailable or "Free" Testosterone, as this is the hormone that is active in your body. Your goal should be to achieve an optimal Free T level, not just a certain Total T.

Your Next Step: From Data to Diagnosis

These charts are a useful reference point, but they are not a diagnostic tool. If your levels are on the low end of these ranges and you are experiencing symptoms, that is more than enough reason to seek a professional medical opinion.