Scientists Figure Out The Best Estimate For The Average Penis Size

For centuries, men have obsessed over one question: What is the “average” penis size?

Myths, locker-room rumors, and unreliable self-reported studies have fueled widespread misconceptions.

Now, thanks to a massive international study involving 15,521 men, we finally have the most scientifically accurate measurements ever recorded.

The results?

The average erect penis measures 13.12 cm (5.16 inches) in length, while the average girth is 11.66 cm (4.59 inches).

When flaccid, the average length is 9.16 cm (3.61 inches), with an average girth of 9.31 cm (3.66 inches).

This study, led by researchers from King’s College London, aimed to put an end to anxiety and misinformation.

The key difference from past studies?

Instead of relying on self-reported measurements, which are often exaggerated, researchers analyzed data from 17 academic papers where measurements were taken by medical professionals using standardized techniques.

Yet, despite these clear numbers, most men still believe they are below average.

Why?

Because societal myths, unrealistic adult content, and a fundamental misunderstanding of statistics have warped perceptions of what “normal” actually is.

Why Men Think They’re Smaller Than They Are

When it comes to self-reported penis size, men have a tendency to overestimate themselves—sometimes drastically.

“People tend to overestimate themselves,” said lead researcher David Veale, a psychiatrist at King’s College London.

“[Men] seem to have a very distorted picture of what other men are, and what they believe they should be.”

The issue is made worse by the fact that most men never actually see an erect penis other than their own.

In places like gym showers or urinals, comparisons are usually made in a flaccid state, which varies significantly based on temperature, anxiety, and blood flow.

Some men “turtle” more than others, leading to the false belief that they are much smaller than their peers.

Behavioral scientist Debra Herbenick from Indiana University—who was not involved in the study—pointed out just how widespread this insecurity is:

“It still just strikes me how many men have questions and insecurities and concerns about their own penis size. We actually do need good data on it.”

The Numbers: Where Do You Stand?

Using precise scientific methods, researchers measured penis length from the pubic bone to the tip of the glans, ensuring that fat deposits or foreskin length didn’t artificially inflate the numbers.

Girth was measured either at the base or middle of the shaft.

Here’s how the data breaks down:

Average Penis Size (From the Largest Study Ever Conducted)

State	Length (cm)	Length (inches)	Girth (cm)	Girth (inches)
Flaccid	9.16 cm	3.61 in	9.31 cm	3.66 in
Erect	13.12 cm	5.16 in	11.66 cm	4.59 in

But what about those on the far ends of the spectrum?

If your erect length is 16 cm (6.3 inches) or more, you fall into the 95th percentile—meaning only 5 out of 100 men have a larger penis than you.
If your erect length is 10 cm (3.94 inches) or less, you are in the 5th percentile—meaning only 5 out of 100 men have a smaller penis than you.

For most men, this study should bring some peace of mind.

The vast majority fall within the normal range, and the perception of “below average” is often based on incorrect assumptions rather than reality.

Does Size Really Matter?

One of the most surprising findings from this study had nothing to do with measurements—it was about perception.

In a large survey of 52,031 heterosexual men and women, researchers found:

85% of women were satisfied with their partner’s penis size.
Only 55% of men were satisfied with their own size.
Just 15% of women considered size to be important—and girth mattered more than length.

This raises an important question: If the vast majority of women are satisfied, why are so many men still insecure?

The answer lies in social conditioning.

Men internalize unrealistic comparisons, often influenced by pornography, exaggerated online discussions, and pop culture references.

The study suggests that many men believe women care far more about size than they actually do.

Another interesting detail?

While this study focused on heterosexual men, researchers acknowledged that sexual preferences might differ within the LGBTQ+ community, though more research is needed in that area.

Does Foot Size, Finger Length, or Height Correlate With Penis Size?

You’ve probably heard these myths before:

“Big feet = big penis.”
“Tall men are better endowed.”
“Finger length reveals penis size.”

The researchers dug through the scientific literature to see if there was any truth to these claims.

The result?

The correlations were either weak or completely inconsistent.

In other words: Your shoe size has absolutely no bearing on your penis size.

So if you’ve got small feet, wear them with pride—they don’t mean a thing.

Why This Study Matters (Beyond Just Reassurance)

At first glance, this study might seem like just another penis size comparison. But it actually has far-reaching implications:

Medical & Psychological Impact – Many men experience body dysmorphia related to their genitals, sometimes leading to severe anxiety, depression, or even unnecessary surgical procedures. Accurate data can help doctors and therapists reassure patients that they are completely normal.
Standardized Measurements – This study establishes a universal benchmark for what is considered statistically average, eliminating the wildly different numbers that have circulated in past studies.
Reducing Misinformation – By relying on objective clinical data instead of self-reports, this study shuts down the common myths that distort men’s self-image.

Final Thoughts: A Reality Check for Men Everywhere

This study provides the most accurate, scientific measurement of penis size ever conducted, and the takeaway is clear: Most men are completely normal.

If you’ve ever worried that you were too small, this data should reassure you.

The average penis size is smaller than what many men assume, and the idea that most men are “big” is simply a myth.

And for those still worried?

Remember: 85% of women are perfectly happy with their partner’s size—and when it does matter, girth is more important than length.

So the next time you hear wild claims about what’s “normal,” you’ll have science on your side.

And the best part?

You probably had nothing to worry about in the first place.