Objective:To investigate the influence of blood pressure level on large arterial compliance(C1) and small arterial compliance(C2). Methods:Nine hundred and fifty three subjects were divided into optimal,normal,high normal blood pressure and hypertension groups according to their blood pressure levels. C1 and C2 were measured by pulse wave analysis. Statistical methods included analysis of covariance and stepwise regression analysis. Results:C1 and C2 were decreased with increased blood pressure levels(P < 0.000 1). Stepwise regression analysis showed that C1 and C2 were decreased with increased age,systolic blood pressure and heart rate;men had higher C1 and C2 than women;and smokers had a lower C2 than non-smokers. Conclusion:C1 and C2 are decreased with blood pressure levels. Non-hypertensives with blood pressure levels at normal or high-normal ranges have lower arterial compliance than those with optimal blood pressure.