The hemoglobin-to-red blood cell distribution width ratio (HRR) is recognized as a novel prognostic biomarker; however, studies exploring its relationship with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are scarce. This study used data from the National Health and National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey database from 2005 to 2018. The analysis included individuals aged ≥ 20 years who had complete HRR and CKD data. Weighted univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to assess the association between the HRR and CKD prevalence. Additionally, restricted cubic spline and subgroup analyses were conducted for further validation. Ultimately, 19,426 participants were included in this study. After adjusting for confounders, multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed a negative association between HRR and CKD (OR = 0.35, 95% CI = 0.22–0.56). In addition, restricted cubic spline regression analysis revealed a negative linear association between HRR and CKD, with higher levels of HRR associated with a lower prevalence of CKD. The subgroup analysis revealed that the negative association between HRR and CKD was stronger in the male population. HRR is negatively associated with the prevalence of CKD in the adult population of the US. HRR is a potential indicator for assessing the prevalence of CKD and provides a rationale for personalized management.