I just pulled (11) PNP 2N4403 (any small signal BJT that isn't in a TO-39/TO-205AD package, or better, is beneath my notice) from one 1000-bag laying about. Using a base current set to \$10.0\:\mu\text{A}\$ for each, I found the following \$\beta\$ values: 236, 170, 176, 177, 200, 176, 176, 196, 184, 260, and 180. Most are hugging close to 170-180, but two of them were significantly higher.
Central Semi shows this range:
There is quite a range listed for the device. This wide range is typical. Not abnormal.
If minimum and maximum values are stated then combine them like this, \$\sqrt{100\,\cdot\,300}\approx 173\$. That will often get close to a typical value. (As it did here, it seems.) But as can be seen, the spread around that value is also quite wide.