Testosterone levels peak in men during their late teens and early twenties. After this peak, levels gradually decline with age.
Testosterone Levels Across the Lifespan
The following table summarizes testosterone levels across different age groups, based on the provided references. Note that ranges are broad, and individual variations exist.
| Age Group (Years) | Male Testosterone (ng/dL) | Female Testosterone (ng/dL) |
|---|---|---|
| 1-10 | 2.5 - 10 | 2.5 - 10 |
| 10-18 | 100 - 970 | 15 - 38 |
| 18+ | 264 - 916 | Premenopausal: 10 - 55; Postmenopausal: 7 - 40 |
- Teenage Years (10-18): Testosterone levels in males significantly increase during puberty, reaching higher levels in the later teens.
- Young Adulthood (18-20s): This is generally when testosterone peaks in men.
- Adulthood (30s-40s and beyond): A gradual decline in testosterone levels begins around age 40, continuing at a rate of approximately 1-2% per year. By age 70, the average man's testosterone production is roughly 30% lower than its peak.
Important Considerations: These are average ranges. Individual variations are substantial, influenced by genetics, lifestyle factors (diet, exercise, stress), and overall health. The specific "high" range is subjective and depends on the individual and the context (e.g., diagnosis of testosterone deficiency). Furthermore, some studies suggest different age-specific cutoffs for low testosterone, demonstrating the complexity in defining "high" levels.
