How Many People Are Left-Handed? Facts & Regional Data

What percentage of people are left-handed? How does this differ between countries? This page presents a concise, evidence-based summary – ideal as a starting point for research and academic papers.

Global Prevalence of Left-Handedness

A meta-analysis by Papadatou-Pastou et al. (2020), which included over 2.3 million individuals from 200 studies, found that 10.6 % of the world population is left-handed. The study also noted a gender difference: 11.6 % of men are left-handed, compared to 9.5 % of women.

Source: Papadatou-Pastou et al., 2020; Ruhr University Bochum / news.rub.de

Europe

According to the German Society for Occupational and Environmental Medicine, the proportion of left-handers across European countries ranges from 10 % to 15 %. Similar figures have been confirmed in studies conducted in the UK, Scandinavia and Central Europe.

Source: DGAMU / Wikipedia (as of 2023)

Germany

Estimates for Germany also range from 10 % to 15 % of the population. These numbers apply to children and adults. The percentage is lower among older generations due to past re-education practices.

Source: Wikipedia.de / linkshaender-fakten.de

United States

In the United States, the proportion of left-handers has increased significantly over the decades. In 1932, only about 2 % of the population were recorded as left-handed. By 1972, the number had risen to 12 %. Current estimates suggest about 13–14 % of Americans are left-handed today.

Source: linkshaender-fakten.de

Factors Influencing the Data

Varying definitions: Some studies define handedness by writing hand, others by dominant or fine motor use.
Re-education: Especially in older cohorts, many left-handers were trained to use their right hand.
Self-report vs. testing: Some research relies on participant self-identification, while others use standardized tasks – leading to varied results.

Why Left-Handers Are More Visible Today

Since the 1970s, societal attitudes toward left-handedness have changed. A decline in re-education practices, more products tailored for left-handers, and greater public awareness have led to increased visibility. High-profile left-handed individuals in politics, sports, and entertainment have also contributed to normalization.

Conclusion: Around 10 % of the global population is left-handed. While the exact number varies by region and age group, the overall trend is stable. Improved research methods and cultural openness have made left-handedness more measurable and socially accepted.