Where are the kidneys located in the body?

The kidneys are located deep inside your body, safely tucked away on either side of the spine. They sit just below the ribcage, with one kidney on the left and the other on the right. Most people do not realize it, but the right kidney usually sits a little lower than the left. This is because the large liver takes up space on the right side of the body.

Each kidney is shaped like a bean and measures about 4 to 5 inches (10 to 12 centimeters) in length. You cannot feel them from the outside because they are positioned behind other organs and protected by the back muscles and lower ribs. This location in the retroperitoneal space—behind the abdominal lining—helps shield them from injury.

The kidneys are connected to the rest of the urinary system. Blood flows into the kidneys through the renal arteries, and clean blood returns to the body through the renal veins. Urine formed by the kidneys travels down thin tubes called ureters and is stored in the bladder until it is passed out of the body.

Their position near the spine is not random. It allows easy access to a large supply of blood for filtering. This is why kidneys can filter over 180 liters (48 gallons) of blood each day and produce the urine that removes waste and keeps your body in balance.

Many people wonder if the body can function normally with just one kidney. The good news is that the human body is highly adaptable. One well-functioning kidney is usually enough to keep your blood clean, your fluids balanced, and your health on track.

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