For many years, 120/80 mm Hg was promoted as the universal “ideal” blood pressure number for everyone, and it remains widely referenced in health articles and clinical settings as a simple benchmark for normal blood pressure. However, recent cardiovascular research and updated guideline recommendations show that blood pressure targets are not one universal ideal for every person. Modern guidance from major cardiology organizations emphasizes that optimal blood pressure varies based on individual factors like age, overall health, existing medical conditions, and risk of treatment side effects—rather than a single rigid cutoff.

In the updated classifications used by experts, normal blood pressure is still defined as below 120/80 mm Hg, but readings between 120–129 mm Hg are now labeled “elevated,” and 130 mm Hg or above may be considered stage 1 hypertension the moment they are sustained. This nuance reflects the understanding that risk exists on a spectrum rather than at a fixed threshold.

Importantly, the latest guidelines also recommend that blood pressure targets must be individualized. For some people—especially those with high cardiovascular risk, diabetes, or kidney disease—clinicians may aim for lower targets (e.g., around or below 130/80 mm Hg) because evidence suggests additional protection against heart attack and stroke. But for others, particularly older adults or those prone to dizziness, too‑aggressive lowering can cause harm, so slightly higher targets may be safer and more realistic.

Additionally, recent guideline updates introduce a new category called “elevated blood pressure” (120–139/70–89 mm Hg) and recommend that treatment decisions consider overall cardiovascular risk and patient tolerance, rather than solely aiming for one fixed number.