Quick answer
Great White Sharks typically weigh around 680–1,100 kg (1,500–2,400 lb), sometimes more, with length and height varying by sex and population. Size influences diet (Carnivore (seals, sea lions, fish, rays)), home range, and predator risk.
Key takeaway
Great White Sharks typically weigh around 680–1,100 kg (1,500–2,400 lb), sometimes more, with length and height varying by sex and population. Size influences diet (Carnivore (seals, sea lions, fish, rays)), home range, and predator risk.
Typical Great White Shark size
Adults are often described at 680–1,100 kg (1,500–2,400 lb), sometimes more. Guides may list head-body length separately from tail; museum skins and live weights do not always match.
Males, females, and growth
Many species show sexual dimorphism. Juveniles reach adult mass over months to years; nutrition in Cool and temperate coastal waters worldwide affects final size within genetic limits.
Why great white shark size matters
Body size shapes diet (Carnivore (seals, sea lions, fish, rays)), territory size, predator risk, and rough longevity patterns around Up to 70 years.
Measuring great white sharks
Live weights are hard to take; researchers use morphometrics, cameras, or carcass data. Treat tourist guesses cautiously.
Range and habitat
Great White Sharks inhabit Cool and temperate coastal waters worldwide, with well-known populations off South Africa, southern Australia, California, and the northeastern United States. Their preferred habitat includes cool and temperate coastal waters worldwide, where they find food, shelter, and breeding sites. Population density varies with prey availability, water access, and human disturbance. Protected areas an
Physical characteristics and behaviour
Adult great white sharks typically measure about 4.6 m in length and weigh 680–1,100 kg (1,500–2,400 lb), sometimes more. They can sprint at up to 56 km/h (35 mph) when hunting or escaping predators. Great White Sharks are known for the ocean's most famous apex predator — social structure, daily activity, and seasonal movements all reflect pressures in their native environment.
Sources
Great White Shark FAQs
How big is a great white shark?
Great White Sharks typically weigh around 680–1,100 kg (1,500–2,400 lb), sometimes more, with length and height varying by sex and population. Size influences diet (Carnivore (seals, sea lions, fish, rays)), home range, and predator risk.
What is the scientific name of the great white shark?
Carcharodon carcharias — used in research and conservation listings for great white sharks.
What do great white sharks eat?
Great White Sharks eat seals, sea lions, fish and rays, with seasonal and regional variation in Cool and temperate coastal waters worldwide.
Where do great white sharks live?
They are associated with Cool and temperate coastal waters worldwide. Local presence depends on food, cover, and human land use.
What is the conservation status of great white sharks?
Listed in our guides as Vulnerable. Check the IUCN Red List and national assessments for the latest formal category.