A cross-cultural study in Frontiers in Psychology finds height meaningfully shapes romantic choices in both short- and long-term contexts. Across countries, men generally prefer shorter women, a pattern the authors link to social and possible evolutionary cues like perceived youthfulness and approachability.

Women, by contrast, tend to prefer taller men. Height in men is often associated with strength, protection, and social dominance—traits that become especially salient when considering long-term partners, though they can influence casual dating too.

Preferences are context-dependent. People may weigh height differently for short-term vs. committed relationships, with scenarios emphasizing stability and emotional security boosting the appeal of taller male partners.

Still, individual variation is large. Culture, personality, and life experience shape what each person finds attractive, so many do not fit these broad trends. The takeaway: height matters, but it’s one factor in a complex mix driving attraction.