MCV levels: what's normal, high and low
The average size of your red blood cells. Helps classify the type of anemia when one is present.
Medically reviewed by Youmna DiStefano, MD · Last reviewed September 2026
The short answer
MCV is measured with a standard blood draw; no fasting is needed. A typical reference range is 80.0 – 100 fL. At TestWell it's $21.99 all-in as CBC with Differential, results in 1–3 business days, drawn at Quest or Labcorp. An out-of-range result is a prompt to look closer, not a diagnosis.
- Units
- fL
- Sample
- Blood draw
- Fasting
- Not required
- Results
- 1–3 business days
- Price
- $21.99
- Labs
- Quest or Labcorp · BioReference in NY/NJ
MCV Reference Range
These are the typical adult reference ranges used by major US labs. Your report will include the specific range used by the lab that processed your sample.
| Population | Range |
|---|---|
| age 18+ | 80.0 – 100 fL |
Reference ranges are educational. Always interpret your result with the specific range printed on your lab report and discuss anything outside the range with a clinician.
What your MCV result may mean
Often reflects vitamin B12 or folate deficiency, alcohol use, or certain medications.
What a high MCV means: causes, symptoms, next steps →Often reflects iron deficiency or thalassemia.
What a low MCV means: causes, symptoms, next steps →Educational only — not a diagnosis. Many factors can influence a single result. Discuss anything that concerns you with a healthcare provider.
How do you get a MCV test?
Order online, a licensed physician reviews the requisition, and you walk into a nearby lab for the draw. MCV is available on its own or inside these panels — panels cost less per marker when you want the fuller picture.
| Option | Includes | Price |
|---|---|---|
| CBC with Differential | This marker only | $21.99 |
| Baseline Anemia Panel | 5 tests | $74.99 |
| General Wellness Panel | 4 tests | $89.99 |
| Post-COVID Recovery Panel | 7 tests | $99.99 |
| Fitness & Performance Panel | 8 tests | $119.99 |
Quest vs. Labcorp for MCV: which lab should you pick?
Both are CLIA-certified national labs and the result is clinically equivalent, so pick whichever location is closer. Your report will print that lab's own reference range, which can differ slightly from the table above.
| Lab | Available | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Quest Diagnostics | Yes | $21.99 |
| Labcorp | Yes | $21.99 |
| BioReference (NY & NJ) | Yes | $18.99 |
Need help choosing a location? Use the lab finder to see draw sites near your ZIP.
Related Blood Health biomarkers
Markers commonly tested alongside MCV.
Frequently asked
Often reflects vitamin B12 or folate deficiency, alcohol use, or certain medications. A single result above the reference range is a prompt to look closer with a clinician — often a repeat test and related markers — not a diagnosis on its own.
Ready to test your mcv?
Order in two minutes, get physician-approved, and visit a lab the same day. Starts at $21.99.