Sleep

How Many Hours of Sleep Do Adults Need?

Published 2026-10-31 · Educational guide

Quick answer: Most adults need at least 7 hours of sleep per night, according to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and the Sleep Research Society. A CDC report based on 2024 data found that nearly a third of U.S. adults slept fewer than 7 hours on average.

The recommended amount

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine and the Sleep Research Society recommend that adults aged 18 to 60 sleep at least 7 hours each night. The American Heart Association describes an ideal range of 7 to 9 hours in a 24-hour period.

How many people get enough

In 2024, nearly a third of U.S. adults slept fewer than the recommended 7 hours per night on average. Only a little more than half said they woke up feeling well-rested on most days.

Why sleep duration matters

Short sleep is part of the heart health picture. The American Heart Association includes healthy sleep among its eight measures of cardiovascular health, alongside diet, physical activity, and blood pressure.

Quality counts too

Hours matter, but so does how continuous your sleep is. Interrupted sleep can leave you feeling tired even after a full night in bed.

Frequently asked questions

How many hours of sleep is enough?

For most adults, 7 to 9 hours. Some people feel rested on 7, while others need more.

Do older adults need less sleep?

Older adults still generally need about 7 to 8 hours. Sleep often becomes lighter with age, so quality matters more.

Sources

This article is for education only and doesn’t replace care from a licensed professional. Before buying any product or changing a treatment, consult your dentist or physician.