Cholesterol Ratio Calculator
Use our cholesterol ratio calculator to calculate your total cholesterol to HDL ratio. Includes the cholesterol ratio formula, how to calculate cholesterol ratio from a lipid panel, and what cholesterol ratio should be (general ranges).
Cholesterol Ratio Explained
A cholesterol ratio usually means your total cholesterol divided by your HDL (“good”) cholesterol. It’s one way to summarize your lipid numbers into a single value.
In general, a lower ratio is better because it often reflects either lower total cholesterol, higher HDL, or both.
This calculator helps you calculate cholesterol ratio quickly from your lab results. It does not diagnose or replace medical advice—use it as a reference point to discuss with your clinician.
Cholesterol Ratio Formula
To calculate cholesterol ratio, divide total cholesterol by HDL cholesterol. Use the same units for both (mg/dL or mmol/L).
Units cancel out as long as both values use the same unit.
Often written as “4-to-1” (4:1).
Good Cholesterol Ratio Chart
General interpretation for total cholesterol to HDL ratio.
| Cholesterol Ratio (Total ÷ HDL) | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Below 3.5 : 1 | Very good |
| Below 5 : 1 | Common target range many clinicians prefer |
| 5 : 1 and higher | Higher ratio is generally considered higher risk |
These are general guidelines. Your overall cardiovascular risk depends on many factors, not the ratio alone.
How to Calculate Cholesterol Ratio
- 1
Find your Total Cholesterol and HDL Cholesterol numbers on your lipid panel.
- 2
Make sure both values use the same unit (mg/dL or mmol/L).
- 3
Divide Total cholesterol by HDL cholesterol.
- 4
The result is your cholesterol ratio (often shown like 4.2:1).
Frequently Asked Questions
Cholesterol ratio = total cholesterol ÷ HDL cholesterol. For example, 180 ÷ 60 = 3.0.
In general, lower is better. Many references describe ratios below 5:1 as a common target, and below 3.5:1 as very good.
There isn’t one universal “healthy ratio by age” number used everywhere. Age affects overall cardiovascular risk, and clinicians interpret lipid results (including HDL, LDL, non-HDL, triglycerides, and other risk factors) together.
A ratio can be higher if HDL is low. Since the ratio is total ÷ HDL, a smaller HDL value increases the ratio.
No. It’s one summary metric. Many guidelines emphasize looking at LDL and/or non-HDL cholesterol and your overall risk profile rather than relying on the ratio alone.