Length Converter

Q: How many centimeters are in an inch?

There are exactly 2.54 centimeters in one inch. To convert inches to centimeters, multiply the inch value by 2.54.

What is a Length Converter?

A length converter is a tool that helps you convert measurements from one unit of length to another. Length is a fundamental physical quantity that measures the distance between two points in space.

Whether you're working on a home improvement project, studying physics, planning a trip, or just curious about different measurement systems, our length converter makes it easy to switch between metric and imperial units instantly.

The metric system (kilometers, meters, centimeters) is used by most countries worldwide, while the imperial system (miles, feet, inches) is primarily used in the United States, United Kingdom, and a few other countries. Our converter supports both systems and allows seamless conversion between them.

Length Conversion Formulas

Metric to Imperial

Kilometers to Miles: miles = km × 0.621371
Meters to Feet: feet = meters × 3.28084
Centimeters to Inches: inches = cm × 0.393701
Meters to Yards: yards = meters × 1.09361

Imperial to Metric

Miles to Kilometers: km = miles × 1.60934
Feet to Meters: meters = feet × 0.3048
Inches to Centimeters: cm = inches × 2.54
Yards to Meters: meters = yards × 0.9144

Quick Reference Table

From	To	Multiply by
1 kilometer	meters	1,000
1 meter	centimeters	100
1 centimeter	millimeters	10
1 mile	kilometers	1.60934
1 mile	feet	5,280
1 yard	feet	3
1 foot	inches	12
1 inch	centimeters	2.54

Common Length Conversions

Kilometers to Miles

1 km = 0.621 miles
5 km = 3.107 miles
10 km = 6.214 miles (common race distance)
42.195 km = 26.219 miles (marathon)
100 km = 62.137 miles

Feet to Meters

1 foot = 0.305 meters
5 feet = 1.524 meters
5 feet 10 inches = 1.778 meters (average male height)
6 feet = 1.829 meters
10 feet = 3.048 meters

Inches to Centimeters

1 inch = 2.54 cm
6 inches = 15.24 cm
12 inches (1 foot) = 30.48 cm
24 inches = 60.96 cm
36 inches (1 yard) = 91.44 cm

Frequently Asked Questions

How many centimeters are in an inch?

There are exactly 2.54 centimeters in one inch. This is an exact conversion factor defined by international agreement in 1959. To convert inches to centimeters, simply multiply the inch value by 2.54. For example, 10 inches = 10 × 2.54 = 25.4 cm.

How do I convert feet to meters?

To convert feet to meters, multiply the feet value by 0.3048. For example, 10 feet = 10 × 0.3048 = 3.048 meters. This conversion is useful for understanding heights, room dimensions, or distances when traveling between countries that use different measurement systems.

What is the formula to convert kilometers to miles?

To convert kilometers to miles, multiply the kilometer value by 0.621371. For example, 100 km = 100 × 0.621371 = 62.14 miles. This is particularly useful for understanding speed limits or distances when traveling between countries.

Why are there two different measurement systems?

The metric system was developed in France in the 1790s and is based on powers of 10, making it easy to use for scientific calculations. The imperial system evolved from older English units and was standardized in 1824. Most countries use metric, but the US, UK (partially), and a few others still use imperial units for everyday measurements.

How tall is 6 feet in centimeters?

6 feet equals 182.88 centimeters. To calculate: 6 feet × 30.48 cm/foot = 182.88 cm. This is approximately 1.83 meters, which is considered above average height for most populations.

Common Conversion Mistakes to Avoid

Confusing cm and mm: Remember, 1 cm = 10 mm, not 100 mm. A centimeter is about the width of your pinky fingernail.
Mixing up feet and meters: 1 meter is about 3.28 feet, not 1 foot. A meter is slightly longer than a yard.
Forgetting to convert both dimensions: When converting area, you need to square the conversion factor (e.g., 1 sq meter = 10.764 sq feet, not 3.28).
Using approximate values: For precise work, use exact conversion factors, not rounded numbers. The difference can add up significantly.
Confusing nautical miles with regular miles: A nautical mile (1,852 m) is longer than a statute mile (1,609 m).