The gradual loss of high-frequency hearing with age is called presbycusis. You can get a rough idea of your own upper limit with the Hearing Frequency Test on FreeSoundTools.
Typical hearing range by age
| Age group | Approximate upper limit | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Teens | 18,000-19,000 Hz | Can hear mosquito-deterrent tones (17 kHz) |
| 20s | 16,000-17,000 Hz | Most music content is fully audible |
| 30s | 14,000-15,000 Hz | Little impact on daily life |
| 40s | 12,000-13,000 Hz | High cymbal detail may sound less crisp |
| 50s+ | 10,000-11,000 Hz or lower | Speech comprehension may start to decline |
Source: NIH National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, "Age-Related Hearing Loss (Presbycusis)" — nidcd.nih.gov (checked 2026-10-08). These figures are averages for healthy adults with low noise exposure. Individual results vary, and headphone/speaker quality affects online test results.
Why high frequencies go first
Inside the cochlea (inner ear), tiny hair cells detect sound. The cells responsible for high frequencies sit near the entrance of the cochlea and are exposed to noise first. As they wear down with age, they do not regenerate, so high-frequency hearing loss is permanent.
How to test your hearing range
- Open the Hearing Frequency Test.
- Use earphones or headphones — they are more accurate than speakers.
- Set the volume to a moderate level. Too loud can damage your hearing.
- Make your environment as quiet as possible.
- Start at 8 kHz and play progressively higher tones. Note the last frequency you can hear.
Caution
- An online test is not a substitute for a clinical audiogram. See an audiologist if you suspect hearing loss.
- Cheap earbuds may not reproduce frequencies above 16 kHz. Check your headphone specs.
- Do not listen at high volumes for extended periods, even during the test.
Protecting your hearing
- Follow the 60-60 rule: keep volume at 60% of maximum and limit listening to 60 minutes at a time.
- Wear earplugs in loud environments (concerts, construction sites).
- Get regular hearing checkups.
FAQ
What is the human hearing frequency range?
A healthy young adult can hear roughly 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz (20 kHz). The upper limit decreases with age.
How much does hearing change with age?
Roughly: teens hear up to 18-19 kHz, 20s up to 16-17 kHz, 30s up to 14-15 kHz, 40s+ up to 12-13 kHz or below. Individual variation is large and depends on noise exposure history.
Can an online test replace a medical hearing exam?
No. Online tests depend on your headphones and ambient noise and are not as accurate as a clinical audiogram. If you suspect hearing loss, see an audiologist.