Typing Speed by Age
How fast does the average person type? WPM benchmarks by age group and profession — so you know exactly where you stand.
Key insight
The global average typing speed is approximately 40–44 WPM on a standard QWERTY keyboard. Most professional roles require 50–65 WPM. Programmers who type over 80 WPM are in the top ~5% of all typists.
Average WPM by Age Group
| Age group | Average WPM |
|---|---|
| Under 18 (teens) | 34 – 44 WPM |
| 18 – 25 | 45 – 60 WPM |
| 26 – 35 | 50 – 65 WPM |
| 36 – 45 | 45 – 60 WPM |
| 46 – 55 | 38 – 52 WPM |
| 56 and over | 30 – 45 WPM |
Figures are population averages from multiple typing benchmark studies. Individual variation is significant — regular practice matters far more than age.
Average WPM by Profession
| Role | Typical WPM |
|---|---|
| Software developer | 50 – 75 WPM |
| Writer / journalist | 60 – 80 WPM |
| Data entry specialist | 60 – 90 WPM |
| Administrative assistant | 50 – 70 WPM |
| Medical transcriptionist | 55 – 80 WPM |
| Court reporter | 225+ WPM |
| Gamer (heavy PC) | 55 – 80 WPM |
| Average office worker | 38 – 50 WPM |
Age Doesn't Decide Your Speed
Studies show that deliberate practice can overcome the age-related typing slowdown almost entirely. A 50-year-old who practices daily consistently outperforms untrained 25-year-olds. The main predictor of typing speed isn't age — it's hours of intentional practice.
Find out how your speed compares right now — free, no account needed.
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