Study reveals average penis size across US states and exposes who is exaggerating

A recent survey by Bespoke Surgical aimed to uncover which U.S. states are most likely to exaggerate penis size and how those claims compare to reality. This lighthearted yet revealing study builds on 2020 research published in the Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy, which found that the average erect penis length ranged between 5.1 and 5.5 inches.

In their 2023 survey, Bespoke Surgical asked over 1,300 men two key questions: their actual erect penis length and what size they claim to potential partners. The results revealed a national self-reported average length of 6.41 inches—noticeably higher than the scientifically established average—suggesting that some embellishment may be involved.

State-by-state results varied significantly. Men in Delaware reported the smallest average at 5.22 inches, followed by New Mexico and Maryland. On the other end, Alabama topped the list with a reported average of 7.44 inches, followed closely by Louisiana, West Virginia, Vermont, and Utah. However, Louisiana also had the highest rate of exaggeration, with an average claimed length of 8.07 inches—nearly an inch more than what was reported as actual.

Interestingly, Delaware—despite having the smallest reported averages—had one of the largest exaggeration gaps at 1.30 inches. Meanwhile, 26% of men overall admitted to inflating their size by about 0.98 inches. Surprisingly, 12% understated their size, and 62% told the truth.

While Bespoke Surgical emphasized this wasn’t about shaming, the data offers an amusing yet insightful look into male self-image and honesty. In the end, honesty may still be the most attractive trait—especially in Louisiana.