Average Height for Girls by Age: Growth Chart & Puberty Guide

Quick Summary: Girl Height Standards

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) sets the standards for average girl height.

• The "Average": Defined as the 50th percentile. This means exactly 50% of girls are taller and 50% are shorter at that specific age.
• The Key Difference: Girls grow fastest between ages 11 and 12, whereas boys peak around age 14. This is why girls are often taller than boys in middle school.
• The "Period" Rule: Most girls stop growing significantly about 2 years after their first period.

CDC Growth Charts for Girls (2 to 20 Years)

The CDC growth charts below show the standard percentile curves used by pediatricians to track girls' height and weight from ages 2 to 20 years. These charts help visualize where your daughter falls compared to other girls her age.

Girls (2 to 20 years)

Stature-for-age and Weight-for-age percentiles (5th and 95th percentiles)

Download PDF Chart

Girls (2 to 20 years)

Stature-for-age and Weight-for-age percentiles (3rd and 97th percentiles)

Download PDF Chart

Note: These CDC clinical charts cover girls from 2 to 20 years using "stature" measurements (standing height). The 5th/95th percentile charts are most commonly used in clinical practice, while the 3rd/97th percentile charts provide extended range for identifying more extreme growth patterns. Use these charts to track your daughter's growth trajectory over time.

Average Height for Girls: Toddlers to Pre-Puberty (2–9 Years)

The "Steady Growth" Phase

Between ages 2 and 9, girls experience consistent and predictable growth.

• Velocity: Girls typically gain about 2 to 2.5 inches per year during this phase.
• Predictability: Growth is steady. A girl in the 50th percentile at age 4 will likely remain near that percentile at age 8, provided she is healthy.

Mother measuring daughter's height on wall to track growth progress.

Table 1: Girls Average Height (Ages 2–9)

Average Height for Teen Girls (10–18 Years)

The Puberty Growth Spurt

Girls hit their "Peak Height Velocity" much earlier than boys.

• The Start: Puberty and the associated growth spurt often begin between ages 10 and 11.
• The Peak: The fastest growth usually happens around age 11.5 to 12.
• The Slow Down: Growth slows significantly after menarche (the first period).

Comparison of growth spurt timing between boys and girls during puberty.

Table 2: Girls Average Height (Ages 10–18)

The "Period" Question: Does Menarche Stop Growth?

Understanding Menarche and Height

A major milestone in female development is menarche (the first menstrual period).

• The Timing: Most girls get their first period between ages 12 and 13.
• The Growth Connection: Menarche signals that the peak growth spurt is over. The surge of estrogen causes the growth plates (epiphyses) to fuse faster than testosterone does in boys.
• Remaining Growth: On average, girls grow only about 2 to 3 inches (5–7 cm) more after their first period starts.

When Do Girls Stop Growing?

• Physical Limit: Most girls reach their final adult height by age 15 or 16.
• The Exception: "Late Bloomers" who start their period later (e.g., age 15) may continue growing until 17 or 18.

Weight According to Height (Girls Growth Chart)

Many parents and teens worry about the ratio of height to weight. Below is the average weight range for healthy girls at different heights (based on BMI 50th percentile).

Height Requirements for Careers (Police, Army, Model)

Female police officer meeting the standard height requirements for law enforcement careers.

Many girls ask: "Is my height enough for the Police or Army?" Here are the standard requirements (General Category).

Police & Military (General Standards)

• SSC GD (Constable): Minimum 157 cm (approx 5'2").
• Delhi/UP Police: Minimum 152 cm - 157 cm (varies by state).
• Indian Army (Women Military Police): Minimum 152 cm (approx 5'0").
• Air Hostess (Cabin Crew): Typically 155 cm to 157 cm (approx 5'1" - 5'2") with an arm reach test.

Modeling Standards

• Runway Models: Typically 5'9" to 5'11" (175 cm+).
• Commercial Models: Typically 5'6" to 5'9" (168 cm - 175 cm).

Global Height Variations (Ethnicity & Region)

The CDC data represents the United States average. Height varies significantly by region and genetics.

• USA & UK: The average woman is 5'4" (163 cm).
• India: The average woman is 5'0" to 5'1" (152–155 cm).
• Netherlands: The average woman is 5'7" (170 cm).
• Philippines: The average woman is 4'11" to 5'0" (150 cm).

Real-World Scenarios (Case Studies)

Case A: The "Early Bloomer"

• Subject: 10-year-old female.
• Height: 4'11" (Tall for age).
• Signs: Started puberty at age 9.
• Analysis: She is currently taller than most classmates. However, because she started puberty early, her growth plates may close early.
• Outcome: She might stop growing by age 13 or 14, reaching a final height of 5'2".

Case B: The "Late Bloomer"

• Subject: 13-year-old female.
• Height: 4'9" (Short for age).
• Signs: Has not gotten her period yet.
• Analysis: She has "delayed bone age." She has not hit her peak growth spurt yet.
• Outcome: She will likely experience a growth spurt later (age 14 or 15) and could eventually become taller than the "Early Bloomer."

Factors You Can Control (How to Grow Taller)

While genetics determine 80% of height, lifestyle determines the rest.

Sleep (The Growth Engine)

Growth Hormone (HGH) is released during deep sleep. Teen girls need 8–10 hours. Lack of sleep during the critical age of 11–13 can prevent you from reaching full potential.

Teen girl getting quality deep sleep, essential for growth hormone release during critical growth years.

Nutrition (The Fuel)

• Calcium: Milk, yogurt, and leafy greens are vital before growth plates fuse.
• Protein: Essential for muscle and bone density.
• Avoid: Extreme dieting or eating disorders during puberty can permanently stunt growth.

Frequently Asked Questions