The kidneys are located high in the abdominal cavity, one on each side of the spine. They lie in a retroperitoneal position, meaning they are behind the peritoneum (the lining of the abdominal cavity). The left kidney generally sits at the vertebral levels T12 to L3, while the right kidney is slightly lower due to the position of the liver. Both kidneys are situated just below the ribcage, with the right kidney positioned slightly more to the middle than the left. Each kidney has an adrenal gland sitting on top. The kidneys are protected partially by the lower ribs and are surrounded by layers of fat and connective tissue for protection and stability.