How to convert feet to centimeters
To convert a measurement in feet to centimeters, multiply the value by 30.48. The conversion factor comes from the relationship between both units and the meter (the SI base unit of length).
For example, to convert 5 ft to centimeters: 5 × 30.48 = 152.4 cm.
What is a foot?
A foot is an imperial unit of length equal to 12 inches or exactly 0.3048 meters. One of the oldest units of measurement, based on the human foot. Used in ancient civilizations from Egypt to Rome. The international foot was defined as exactly 0.3048 meters in 1959.
Common uses of feet include: Human height in the US and UK (e.g. 5'10"); Room dimensions and ceiling height; Aviation altitude measurement worldwide; Construction and building codes in imperial countries.
What is a centimeter?
A centimeter is a metric unit of length equal to one hundredth of a meter (0.01 m) or approximately 0.394 inches. Introduced as part of the metric system in 1795, the centimeter is derived from the Latin 'centum' (hundred). It remains widely used in everyday measurements despite the SI preference for meters.
Common uses of centimeters include: Human height measurement in most countries; Clothing and body measurements; Screen sizes and display dimensions; Medical measurements (wound size, tumor size).
When you need to convert feet to centimeters
Converting feet to centimeters is useful in scientific calculations, international trade, and any context where measurements need to be expressed in the other system for clarity or compliance.
Feet to centimeters worked examples
Here are some common values converted:
1 ft = 30.48 cm 5 ft = 152.4 cm 10 ft = 304.8 cm 50 ft = 1,524 cm 100 ft = 3,048 cm
Frequently asked questions
How many centimeters are in one foot?
One foot (ft) equals 30.48 centimeters (cm). Multiply any value in feet by 30.48 to convert to centimeters.
How do I convert feet to centimeters?
Multiply the value in feet by 30.48. For example, 5 ft × 30.48 = 152.4 cm.
How do I convert centimeters to feet?
Multiply the value in centimeters by 0.032808399, or divide by 30.48. Use the swap button on the converter above to reverse the direction.
Is the foot to centimeter conversion exact?
Yes, the conversion is exact. Since 1959, one inch is defined as exactly 25.4 mm (the international yard and pound agreement), so all metric-imperial length conversions use exact factors.
What is the formula for feet to centimeters?
The formula is: cm = ft × 30.48. This is derived from the definition of both units relative to the meter (the SI base unit of length).