LDL Cholesterol: Normal Range

LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol is often called "bad" cholesterol because excess LDL contributes directly to plaque buildup inside artery walls, a process called atherosclerosis. High LDL itself doesn't cause any symptoms — it's identified through a standard lipid panel blood test, where the number is usually calculated rather than measured directly. See our guide on high cholesterol symptoms for more on what (if anything) people may notice. High LDL itself doesn't cause any symptoms — it's identified through a standard lipid panel blood test, where the number is usually calculated rather than measured directly. See our guide on high cholesterol symptoms for more on what (if anything) people may notice. High LDL itself doesn't cause any symptoms — it's identified through a standard lipid panel blood test, where the number is usually calculated rather than measured directly. See our guide on high cholesterol symptoms for more on what (if anything) people may notice.

Reference Ranges

• Optimal: below 100 mg/dL
• Near optimal: 100–129 mg/dL
• Borderline high: 130–159 mg/dL
• High: 160–189 mg/dL
• Very high: 190 mg/dL or above

Why Your Personal Target May Be Lower

These are general reference ranges — people with existing heart disease, diabetes, or multiple cardiovascular risk factors are often given a lower personal LDL target by their doctor, since their overall risk from the same LDL number is higher than someone without those factors.

What Influences LDL Levels

Diet (particularly saturated and trans fats), physical activity, body weight, genetics, and certain medical conditions all influence LDL levels. Our how to lower cholesterol guide covers the specific changes that help.