Free Height Converter
Quick Reference
1 cm = 0.3937 in = 0.0328 ft1 m = 100 cm = 3.2808 ft = 39.37 in
1 ft = 12 in = 30.48 cm
1 in = 2.54 cm
1 cm = 0.3937 in = 0.0328 ft
Enter a height value, then click Convert
The height conversion calculator is a free online tool that instantly translates height measurements between metric units (centimeters, meters) and imperial units (inches, feet). Whether you need to convert height cm to feet, find the equivalent of a person's height in meters, or switch from feet and inches to centimeters, this converter covers all common conversions without manual math. By understanding the conversion factors behind the tool, you can also perform these calculations on your own when needed.
Conversion Reference Table
The following matrix shows the exact relationship between each pair of height units. Each row lists the value of one unit expressed in the other three:
| 1 cm | 1 m | 1 in | 1 ft | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 cm | 1 | 0.01 | 0.3937 | 0.03281 |
| 1 m | 100 | 1 | 39.37 | 3.281 |
| 1 in | 2.54 | 0.0254 | 1 | 0.08333 |
| 1 ft | 30.48 | 0.3048 | 12 | 1 |
Using this table, any height value can be converted by multiplying or dividing by the appropriate factor.
Converting Between Metric and Imperial Units
All height conversions derive from the relationships above. Below are the most common calculation methods:
- Centimeters to meters: divide by 100. For instance, .
- Meters to centimeters: multiply by 100. .
- Centimeters to inches: divide by 2.54. .
- Inches to centimeters: multiply by 2.54. .
- Feet to centimeters: multiply by 30.48. .
- Centimeters to feet: divide by 30.48. .
- Meters to feet: divide by 0.3048. .
- Feet to meters: multiply by 0.3048. .
- Inches to feet: divide by 12. .
- Feet to inches: multiply by 12. .
When dealing with combined feet and inches (e.g., 5'6"), convert the whole height to inches first: multiply the feet part by 12 and add the inches, then use the inch conversion factors above to get centimeters or meters.
Why Knowing Height Conversion Matters
Two major measurement systems—metric (centimeters, meters) and imperial (inches, feet)—are used worldwide for recording height. Being able to switch between them is essential when reading medical charts, fitness data, or international clothing size tables. A reliable height converter online removes guesswork, but the same formulas let you verify results or calculate offline. Mastering these simple multiplications and divisions makes cross‑system conversations about height quick and accurate.
FAQ
1. How do I convert 5 feet 6 inches to centimeters?
Convert 5 ft to inches (5 × 12 = 60 in), then add the 6 in to get 66 in. Multiply 66 by 2.54: 66 × 2.54 = 167.64 cm. The result is approximately 168 cm.
2. What is the formula to change centimeters to feet?
Divide the centimeter value by 30.48. For example, 180 cm ÷ 30.48 ≈ 5.906 ft, which is roughly 5 ft 10.9 in.
3. Can I use this tool for heights expressed in meters only?
Yes. The converter accepts meters and returns conversions to centimeters, inches, and feet. For instance, 1.75 m equals 175 cm, 68.9 in, or about 5.74 ft.
4. Why are there two different systems for measuring height?
Historically, regions adopted either the metric system (most countries) or the imperial system (primarily the United States). Conversion skills help interpret heights from different sources, such as international medical records or product size charts.
5. How accurate are the conversion factors listed in the reference table?
The factors are based on official definitions: 1 in = 2.54 cm exactly, and 1 ft = 0.3048 m exactly. All derived values (e.g., 1 cm = 0.3937 in) are rounded to four decimal places, suitable for everyday height use.
How to Use
- Enter the height value in the input field.
- Select the unit of your entered value from the inline dropdown.
- Click the Convert button to see the height converted to all common units.