The heart is slightly left of center in the chest, between the lungs and behind the breastbone.

Quick Scoop

  • Most of the heart sits in the middle of the chest, with a bit more of it extending to the left.
  • It is not fully on the left or right side.
  • In rare cases, a condition called dextrocardia can place the heart on the right side.

Simple way to picture it

If you place your hand over the middle of your chest and move it slightly left, that’s roughly where the heart is located for most people.

When to get help

If you’re asking because of chest pain, trouble breathing, fainting, or a pounding/irregular heartbeat, get medical help right away.