About the Length Converter
Since the 1959 International Yard and Pound Agreement, the inch has been defined as exactly 2.54 centimeters. Every imperial length therefore has an exact metric equivalent, and this converter uses those exact definitions rather than rounded figures. Enter a value, pick the units, and you will also see the same length expressed in every other unit — useful for height, room measurements, running distances and DIY projects.
How to use the Length Converter
- Enter the number you want to convert.
- Choose the unit you are converting from and the unit you want.
- Read the result. Lengths are also shown in feet and inches for quick height checks.
- Use the swap button to reverse the conversion, or scan the table for every unit at once.
The formula behind it
Quick reference
Handy conversions to remember:
- 1 cm ≈ 0.3937 inches; 1 inch = 2.54 cm.
- 1 m ≈ 3.2808 feet ≈ 1.0936 yards.
- 1 km ≈ 0.6214 miles; 1 mile ≈ 1.6093 km.
- A 5 km run is about 3.11 miles; a marathon (42.195 km) is about 26.22 miles.
- 6 feet = 182.88 cm.
Nautical miles
A nautical mile (1,852 m) is used in shipping and aviation because it is close to one minute of latitude on the Earth’s surface. It is about 15% longer than a statute mile.
Examples
Height
180 cm ÷ 2.54 = 70.87 inches, which is 5 ft 10.9 in.
Running
10 km × 0.621371 = 6.21 miles.
Frequently asked questions
How many centimeters are in an inch?
Exactly 2.54 centimeters. This has been the international definition since 1959.
How do I convert feet and inches to centimeters?
Multiply the feet by 12, add the inches, then multiply by 2.54. For 5 ft 9 in: (5 × 12 + 9) × 2.54 = 175.26 cm.
Are US and UK inches and feet the same?
Yes. Both use the international inch (2.54 cm) and foot (0.3048 m). The old US survey foot was retired at the end of 2022.
Sources
About the author: Ahmed Bilal
Ahmed Bilal is the founder of VolexTool and builds and maintains every calculator on the site. Tax rates and thresholds are taken directly from official sources such as GOV.UK, HMRC, the Canada Revenue Agency and the Australian Taxation Office, the formula is shown on every page, and each update must pass more than 600 automated checks before it goes live. Ahmed is not a tax adviser: for decisions about your own situation, speak to a qualified accountant or financial adviser.