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Feet and Inches to Centimeters (cm) Converter – Height Calculator

ft/in → cm Converter

Enter feet and inches (or decimal feet) and click "Convert to cm".

Example: 5 ft 8 in = 172.72 cm

The Feet and Inches to Centimeters Converter quickly transforms any height or length from the imperial system (feet and inches) into the metric system (centimeters). Whether you need to convert your own height, furniture dimensions, or international travel measurements, this tool provides an instant answer with a full step‑by‑step breakdown. Use the feet and inches to cm converter above to get started.

How to Convert Feet and Inches to cm

The process involves two simple steps. First, convert the entire height into total inches: multiply the feet by 12 (since one foot equals 12 inches) and add the remaining inches. Second, multiply the total inches by 2.54, because one inch is exactly 2.54 centimeters. For example, to convert 5 feet 8 inches to cm: (5×12+8) = 68 inches; then 68 × 2.54 = 172.72 cm.

If you have a decimal feet value (like 5.75 ft), simply multiply by 30.48 (since 1 foot = 30.48 cm). Our calculator supports both formats – just choose the appropriate tab.

Why Convert ft/in to cm?

  • Medical and health records – many health forms use cm for height.
  • International travel – luggage size limits are often in cm.
  • Furniture and room planning – metric measurements are standard worldwide.
  • Sports and fitness – athletic stats (e.g., basketball player heights) are often listed in cm.

Common Heights: ft/in to cm

Height (ft/in)Centimeters
5 ft 8 in172.72 cm
6 ft 0 in182.88 cm
5 ft 4 in162.56 cm
5 ft 10 in177.80 cm
Understanding the Conversion Factors

The inch is officially defined as exactly 2.54 cm since 1959. This means that any measurement in inches can be multiplied by 2.54 to get centimeters. Since one foot is 12 inches, one foot equals 12 × 2.54 = 30.48 cm exactly. These fixed factors make conversions reliable and precise.

For decimal feet, the formula is direct: cm = feet × 30.48. For instance, a person who is 5.9 feet tall (which is 5 feet plus 0.9×12=10.8 inches) would be 5.9×30.48 = 179.83 cm. Our calculator handles both mixed units and decimal feet.

Step‑by‑Step Manual Conversion Examples

Example 1: 6 feet 2 inches → total inches = 6×12+2 = 74 → 74×2.54 = 187.96 cm.

Example 2: 5 feet 0 inches → 5×12 = 60 inches → 60×2.54 = 152.40 cm.

Example 3: Decimal feet: 5.25 ft → 5.25×30.48 = 160.02 cm.

Our converter automates these calculations, but understanding the math helps you verify results and convert any height manually. Use the tool above for instant, accurate conversions every time.

Frequently Asked Questions about Feet/Inches to cm

How do you convert feet and inches to centimeters?
First convert the height to total inches (feet × 12 + inches), then multiply by 2.54. For example, 5 feet 8 inches = (5×12+8)=68 inches, 68×2.54=172.72 cm.
What is the formula for feet to cm?
1 foot = 30.48 cm. So multiply feet by 30.48 to get cm. For inches: 1 inch = 2.54 cm.
What is the average height in cm?
Globally, average male height is about 171 cm (≈5'7"), female about 159 cm (≈5'3").
Can I convert decimal feet (like 5.5 ft) to cm?
Yes. Use the decimal feet input mode. Multiply decimal feet by 30.48. For example, 5.5 ft × 30.48 = 167.64 cm.
Why do we multiply by 2.54 for inches to cm?
The international inch is defined as exactly 2.54 centimeters. That's the standard conversion factor.