where are kidneys located in back

The kidneys are located in the back, on either side of the spine, just below the ribcage. They lie high in the abdominal cavity in a retroperitoneal position (behind the peritoneum) at around the vertebral levels T12 to L3. The right kidney is usually slightly lower than the left due to the position of the liver. The upper parts of the kidneys are partially protected by the 11th and 12th ribs. Kidney pain is typically felt in this area near the middle of the back, under the ribcage, on each side of the spine.