Height Converter
Convert between feet, inches, and centimeters instantly with our free, accurate height conversion tool
About Height Conversion
Our height converter makes it effortless to convert between imperial (feet and inches) and metric (centimeters) measurements. Whether you're filling out international forms, tracking your child's growth, shopping for clothes abroad, or working on construction projects, accurate height conversion is essential.
The tool uses the standard conversion formula where 1 inch equals 2.54 centimeters. This internationally recognized standard ensures precision across medical, fitness, aviation, and engineering applications worldwide.
Common Height Conversions
Quick reference guide for the most commonly searched height conversions:
| Feet & Inches | Centimeters (cm) | Meters (m) |
|---|---|---|
| 4'0" | 121.92 cm | 1.22 m |
| 4'6" | 137.16 cm | 1.37 m |
| 5'0" | 152.40 cm | 1.52 m |
| 5'3" | 160.02 cm | 1.60 m |
| 5'6" | 167.64 cm | 1.68 m |
| 5'9" | 175.26 cm | 1.75 m |
| 6'0" | 182.88 cm | 1.83 m |
| 6'3" | 190.50 cm | 1.91 m |
| 6'6" | 198.12 cm | 1.98 m |
How Height Conversion Works
Imperial to Metric
Formula: (Feet × 12 + Inches) × 2.54 = Centimeters
Example: 5 feet 9 inches = (5 × 12 + 9) × 2.54 = 175.26 cm
Metric to Imperial
Formula: Centimeters ÷ 2.54 = Total Inches, then convert to feet
Example: 175 cm ÷ 2.54 = 68.9 inches = 5'8.9"
Complete Height Conversion Chart
Comprehensive reference table covering heights from 4 feet to 7 feet in 3-inch increments:
| Height (ft'in") | Total Inches | Centimeters | Meters |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4'0" | 48" | 121.92 cm | 1.22 m |
| 4'3" | 51" | 129.54 cm | 1.30 m |
| 4'6" | 54" | 137.16 cm | 1.37 m |
| 4'9" | 57" | 144.78 cm | 1.45 m |
| 5'0" | 60" | 152.40 cm | 1.52 m |
| 5'3" | 63" | 160.02 cm | 1.60 m |
| 5'6" | 66" | 167.64 cm | 1.68 m |
| 5'9" | 69" | 175.26 cm | 1.75 m |
| 6'0" | 72" | 182.88 cm | 1.83 m |
| 6'3" | 75" | 190.50 cm | 1.91 m |
| 6'6" | 78" | 198.12 cm | 1.98 m |
| 6'9" | 81" | 205.74 cm | 2.06 m |
| 7'0" | 84" | 213.36 cm | 2.13 m |
When You Need Height Conversion
International Travel
Convert heights for visa applications, passport forms, and international documentation
Medical & Health
Accurate height measurements for BMI calculations, medical records, and health assessments
Online Shopping
Find the right fit when shopping from international retailers with different size charts
Fitness & Sports
Track growth, set equipment properly, and meet sport-specific height requirements
Child Development
Monitor children's growth patterns and compare with international growth charts
Construction & Design
Convert measurements for architectural plans and engineering specifications
Understanding Measurement Systems
Imperial System
Used in: United States, Liberia, Myanmar
Units: Feet, Inches, Yards, Miles
Height format: 5'9" (5 feet 9 inches)
The imperial system originated in the British Empire and is still predominantly used in the United States for everyday measurements.
Metric System
Used in: Most countries worldwide (195+ countries)
Units: Millimeters, Centimeters, Meters, Kilometers
Height format: 175 cm or 1.75 m
The metric system is the international standard for science, medicine, and global commerce due to its decimal-based simplicity.
Average Heights by Country
Global height averages for adult males and females (ages 18+):
| Country | Male Average | Female Average |
|---|---|---|
| 🇳🇱 Netherlands | 6'0" (183 cm) | 5'7" (170 cm) |
| 🇩🇪 Germany | 5'11" (180 cm) | 5'6" (166 cm) |
| 🇺🇸 United States | 5'9" (175 cm) | 5'4" (163 cm) |
| 🇬🇧 United Kingdom | 5'9" (175 cm) | 5'4" (162 cm) |
| 🇯🇵 Japan | 5'7" (171 cm) | 5'2" (158 cm) |
| 🇮🇳 India | 5'5" (165 cm) | 5'0" (152 cm) |
| 🇨🇳 China | 5'8" (172 cm) | 5'3" (160 cm) |
Note: These are approximate averages and can vary by region and generation.
Height Conversion Tips & Tricks
Quick Mental Math
For a rough estimate, multiply feet by 30 to get centimeters. Example: 6 feet ≈ 180 cm (actual: 182.88 cm)
Remember Key Heights
Memorize common conversions: 5'0" = 152 cm, 5'6" = 168 cm, 6'0" = 183 cm for quick reference
Measure Accurately
Stand straight against a wall without shoes. Use a flat object on your head for precise measurement
Know Your Units
12 inches = 1 foot | 100 cm = 1 meter | 2.54 cm = 1 inch. Understanding base units helps with conversion
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is the height converter?
Our converter uses the standard formula (1 inch = 2.54 cm) and provides results accurate to two decimal places. This is the same conversion factor used internationally in science, medicine, and engineering.
Why do some countries use feet and others use centimeters?
Historical differences led to varying measurement systems. The metric system was developed in France in the 1790s and adopted globally for its decimal simplicity. The imperial system, rooted in ancient Roman and British measurements, persists mainly in the United States.
Is 5'10" considered tall?
Height perception varies by country. In the United States, 5'10" (178 cm) is slightly above average for males. In the Netherlands, it would be below average. Height is relative to population averages in your region.
How do I measure my height at home?
Stand barefoot with your back against a wall, heels together, and looking straight ahead. Place a flat object (like a book) on your head parallel to the floor and mark the wall. Measure from the floor to the mark for accurate height.
Does height vary throughout the day?
Yes! You're typically taller in the morning. Throughout the day, gravity compresses the spine's cartilage discs, and you can lose up to 1-2 cm (0.4-0.8 inches) by evening. Measure at consistent times for accuracy.
What's the difference between height and stature?
"Height" and "stature" are generally synonymous, both referring to how tall a person is. "Stature" is more commonly used in medical, anthropological, and formal contexts, while "height" is the everyday term.
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