How many calories should an average adult eat daily?

The general guideline is 2,000 calories per day for an average adult, which is the standard used on nutrition labels. However, actual needs vary significantly based on age, sex, weight, height, and activity level. Adult women typically need around 1,600 to 2,400 calories daily, while adult men generally need 2,000 to 3,000 calories. A sedentary older woman might need as few as 1,600, while an active young man could need 3,000 or more. The best way to determine your specific calorie needs is to calculate your Total Daily Energy Expenditure using your basal metabolic rate and activity level, or consult a healthcare provider or registered dietitian.