Average vs. Median
Choose the right summary for skewed data. Read a concrete example, examine the trade-offs, and try a small exercise to see whether the principle applies to your situation.
The core rule or calculation
- Start here. The mean is the total divided by the number of observations.
- Add context. The median is the middle ordered value, or midpoint of two middle values.
- Keep in mind. Outliers can distort the mean more than the median.
Work through an example
For monthly rents of $700, $750, $800, $900 and $2,500, the mean is $1,130 while the median is $800. The one very expensive rent pulls the mean upward but does not move the center of the ordered list much.
When data are skewed, report mean and median together rather than choosing the more dramatic headline.
Where calculations go wrong
A median can also conceal important distribution details, and comparing averages across very different groups may still be misleading.
Try the method
List five values from a familiar data set, sort them and compute both statistics. Ask which better describes a typical case and why.
Further reading and verification
Read the linked reference for additional background on time & numbers. Review the applicable rules and update dates before using any example in a consequential decision.
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Published October 9, 2026 · BlogJD Editorial Desk · How we prepare and correct content · Report a correction.