Mapped: The 20 Tallest Countries in the World 📏

What we’re showing

This graphic ranks the 20 tallest countries in the world, by average height. Data comes from NCD Risk Factor Collaboration, compiled by Business Insider.

Note that rankings are based on average person height (men and women combined). For context, the global average height of a human is 5' 4".

Why are these countries so tall? 

Here’s a high level analysis of why certain countries are taller than others:

• Genetics: Many of the tallest countries are found in Northern and Eastern Europe, suggesting these populations may be predisposed to larger body frames.
• Nutrition & wealth: Countries like the Netherlands have historically had access to high-quality, nutrient-rich diets.