HDL Cholesterol— Normal Range & What Your Result Means

"Good" cholesterol

Normal HDL Cholesterol range (HDL, mg/dL)

  • Men40–60 mg/dL
  • Women50–60 mg/dL

Ranges are typical adult values and vary between labs. Use the range on your own report.

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What is HDL Cholesterol (HDL)?

HDL Cholesterol is measured as part of a lipid / cholesterol panel. Your HDL is in a healthy range — this 'good' cholesterol helps protect your arteries.

What does a high HDL Cholesterol mean?

High HDL is generally beneficial — it helps remove cholesterol from arteries.

What does a low HDL Cholesterol mean?

Your HDL ('good' cholesterol) is low. Higher HDL actually protects against heart disease, so low levels are a risk factor. Exercise and a healthy diet can raise HDL.

Understand your whole report, not just one number

A single value rarely tells the full story — HDL Cholesterol is best read alongside the rest of your panel. Paste your values or upload your report and get a plain-English explanation of every marker, with the important results flagged.

HDL Cholesterol: frequently asked questions

What is a normal HDL Cholesterol level?

A normal HDL Cholesterol (HDL) level is 40–60 mg/dL for men, 50–60 mg/dL for women. Reference ranges vary slightly between laboratories, so always compare against the range printed on your own report.

What does a high HDL Cholesterol mean?

High HDL is generally beneficial — it helps remove cholesterol from arteries.

What does a low HDL Cholesterol mean?

Your HDL ('good' cholesterol) is low. Higher HDL actually protects against heart disease, so low levels are a risk factor. Exercise and a healthy diet can raise HDL.

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