Summary: Average Penis Size by Race – What the Data Really Shows
- Penis size does vary slightly by racial or ethnic group, but the differences are much smaller than most people think.
- White and Hispanic men tend to have average erect lengths around 5.7 inches.
- Black men tend to be slightly above that, while Asian men average slightly below — but the range within each group is much larger than the difference between groups.
- Myths and stereotypes about race and penis size are exaggerated and often not supported by the data. The page encourages readers to focus less on group comparisons and more on individual variation.
- Data can vary depending on how it’s collected, and even small changes in measurement method can produce misleading comparisons. The page cautions that averages do not tell the whole story.
- The key takeaway: While average differences exist, they are minor, and what matters most is individual anatomy, confidence, and health — not racial group averages.
For many men, penis size is tied to self-esteem, confidence, and even masculinity. Because of this, questions about the “average penis size” and whether race plays a role in determining size are common.
While there are slight variations in average size across different ethnic groups, the idea that one race universally has a larger penis than another is largely a myth.
What Is the Average Penis Size?
Extensive research, including a comprehensive analysis by Boston Medical Group that compiled data from 20 studies worldwide, has established the following averages for penis size across all races:
- Flaccid length: 3.61 inches (9.16 cm)
- Flaccid girth: 3.66 inches (9.31 cm)
- Erect length: 5.16 inches (13.11 cm)
- Erect girth: 4.59 inches (11.66 cm)
These measurements represent a global average, meaning that individual variation is significant.
Average Penis Size by Race
Some studies have attempted to break down average penis size by race and ethnicity, but the differences are often minor. The average erect penis length by ethnic group is reported as follows:
- African American/Black: 14.75 cm (5.81 inches)
- White/Caucasian and Hispanic/Latino: 14.5 cm (5.71 inches)
- Asian American: 12.9 cm (5.08 inches)
- Middle Eastern: Slightly below the global average
- South-East Asian, South Asian, and East Asian: Generally on the lower end of the spectrum
The rankings for average penis girth follow a similar pattern, with African American and Hispanic men having slightly larger average girths than other groups.
However, it is essential to note that within each ethnic group, penis size varies widely, and racial averages do not predict individual measurements.
The Role of Genetics and Environment
While genetics plays a role in determining penis size, environmental factors such as diet, health, and overall body composition also contribute.
For example, studies indicate that obesity can reduce the visible length of the penis due to fat accumulation around the pubic area.
Similarly, certain medical conditions and lifestyle choices, such as smoking or poor vascular health, can impact size and function over time.
Do Women Care About Penis Size?
Contrary to common male anxieties, research suggests that women are not as concerned about penis size as men believe. A 2002 study published in the European Journal of Urology found that:
- 20% of women said penis size was important
- 55% said it was unimportant
- Only 1% said it was very important
Another study in the journal PLOS One showed that while women may prefer a slightly larger penis for one-night stands, they prioritize other factors such as emotional connection, compatibility, and partner behavior in long-term relationships.
The Relationship Between Weight and Penis Size
Interestingly, penis size and weight have a more direct correlation than penis size and race. Studies indicate that for every 30-50 pounds of excess weight, a man may lose up to one inch of visible penis length due to fat accumulation around the pelvic area.
This suggests that weight management is a more effective way to improve perceived penis size than focusing on racial differences.
Micropenis: Perception vs. Reality
Many men worry about having a “micropenis,” but the actual occurrence of this condition is rare. A micropenis is defined as having an erect length of 3.67 inches (9.32 cm) or less, which affects only 0.06% of the male population.
However, research shows that 12.5% of men believe they have a micropenis, demonstrating how perception can be skewed by unrealistic expectations.
What Is Considered a Thick Penis?
Girth is often just as important, if not more so, than length when it comes to sexual satisfaction.
The average erect penis girth is 4.59 inches, with anything above 5 inches considered “thick.” Many studies suggest that women place more emphasis on girth than length in terms of sexual pleasure.
Does Penis Size Change with Age?
Yes, penis size can change over time due to aging, weight gain, and reduced testosterone levels. Some of the primary causes of penile shrinkage include:
- Natural aging process
- Weight gain and obesity
- Poor vascular health and erectile dysfunction
While these changes can be concerning, options such as weight loss, medical treatments, and penile enhancement procedures can help counteract these effects.
Final Thoughts: Should You Worry About Penis Size?
Ultimately, while penis size does vary slightly by race, these differences are minor and do not define an individual’s masculinity, sexual satisfaction, or self-worth.
Instead of focusing on racial myths or unrealistic comparisons, men should prioritize their overall health, confidence, and communication with their partners.
If concerns about penis size are affecting confidence or relationships, safe and medically backed options for enhancement exist. However, understanding that size is just one small aspect of a fulfilling sex life is key to overcoming unnecessary insecurities.
Dr. Steven L. Morganstern, M.D.
Dr. Morganstern is an internationally acclaimed, board-certified urologist, surgeon, and best-selling author specializing in men’s sexual health. A pioneer in erectile dysfunction therapeutics, Dr. Morganstern was the only private clinician selected for the original Viagra trials and has spent over four decades advancing treatments in ED, cosmetic urology, hormone replacement, and prostate health.
Dear Rejuvall,
I am planning to make an appointment at your clinic really soon. I have some questions beforehand.
I was looking at your photos list and the procedures were not written next to the photos. I was really wondering if you could send me a couple of pictures per procedure you do so I have an idea what type of procedure has what type of effect.
Also, the cost is not an issue so please let me know which op your procedures are the best and get the best results. Even though I saw you stated that there is no increase in erect length, but some patients had it, can you let me know which procedures that occurred. This is actually my main goal. Is the ligament release not going to do this ?
Thank you in advance and please let me know what type of procedure (surgical or non-surgical) is the best for me (erect length increase).
With regards,
Christopher Wellington
Great questions! All of our non-surgical photos are on the non-surgical gallery page, surgical length + girth is in that gallery, buried penis surgery in the buried penis surgery gallery, etc. In order to find out which of our 33+ procedures is the best fit for you to help you reach your goals, you’ll need to first schedule a phone consultation by filling out the form labeled Cosmetic Urology Assessment on this page.. Once you submit that form, you’ll be taken to John’s calendar where you can select the date and time that works best for you. John will then call you at that time using the phone number you provided on the form. He’ll be able to walk you through, answer all your questions, and get you narrowed down to a few options. Then you’ll have a clinical consult with the doctor where he’ll be able to help you find the best procedure for your body and health to reach your goal. I hope that helps! We look forward to speaking with you!