What Is a Normal PSA Level by Age?

In this post, Dr. David B. Samadi, world-renowned urologist and prostate cancer specialist, explains what a normal PSA level looks like by age—and what it might mean if yours is higher than expected.

What Does PSA Measure?

PSA is a protein produced by both normal and abnormal cells in the prostate. While small amounts of PSA are normally present in a man's blood, elevated levels may be a sign of:

Prostate cancer
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
Prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate)

That’s why interpreting PSA levels depends on more than just a single number—it also requires understanding the patient's age, prostate size, and overall health.

What Are Normal PSA Levels by Age?

Medical guidelines offer age-adjusted PSA ranges that help doctors determine when further testing is needed.

Age Group	Typical PSA Range (ng/mL)
40–49 years	0.0 – 2.5
50–59 years	0.0 – 3.5
60–69 years	0.0 – 4.5
70–79 years	0.0 – 6.5

These values are guidelines—not rules. For example, a healthy 55-year-old man may have a PSA of 3.2 and still be perfectly fine, especially if his PSA level is stable over time.

What Causes PSA Levels to Rise With Age?

As men age, the prostate naturally enlarges. This increase in prostate tissue can lead to a gradual rise in PSA levels—even when there’s no cancer present.

Other common causes of elevated PSA include:

Urinary tract infections
Recent ejaculation
Vigorous exercise or cycling
Medical procedures like a prostate biopsy or digital rectal exam (DRE)

That’s why Dr. Samadi evaluates PSA trends over time, not just a single test result, before recommending next steps.

When Should You Be Concerned About PSA Levels?

A PSA level that’s above the expected range for your age doesn’t automatically mean cancer. However, you should speak with a urologist if you:

Have a PSA level higher than the typical range for your age
Notice a sharp increase from your last test
Have a family history of prostate cancer
Experience urinary symptoms like frequent urination, weak flow, or pain

Dr. Samadi may recommend repeat testing, imaging (like a prostate MRI), or a biopsy depending on your unique case.

What About PSA Velocity and PSA Density?

In addition to total PSA levels, urologists also look at:

PSA Velocity: How quickly your PSA level is rising over time. A fast increase may be more concerning than a high number that’s remained stable.
PSA Density: Your PSA level divided by the size of your prostate. This helps distinguish between BPH and cancer in men with larger prostates.

Both measurements offer deeper insight into prostate health, especially when PSA levels are borderline.

Why Monitoring PSA Over Time Matters

A single elevated PSA reading may be caused by something temporary or benign. That’s why long-term monitoring is so important. Dr. Samadi uses serial PSA testing to establish a baseline and spot any unusual trends early.

Annual or bi-annual PSA tests are especially important for:

Men over 50
Men over 40 with a family history of prostate cancer
African American men (who are at higher risk)

Expert PSA Guidance from Dr. David B. Samadi

Navigating PSA levels can be confusing—but you don’t have to do it alone. Dr. David B. Samadi brings decades of experience in early detection and prostate cancer treatment, including robotic prostatectomy. His approach is rooted in precision, compassion, and results.

If you’re concerned about your PSA levels or simply want to establish a healthy baseline, Dr. Samadi is here to help.

Schedule Your PSA Screening Today

Take charge of your prostate health with expert guidance and early screening.