How to Convert Feet to CM - Step by Step Guide & Formula

How to Convert Feet to Centimeters

Converting feet to centimeters is a simple mathematical operation once you know the conversion factor. This guide will show you the exact formula, step-by-step instructions, and practical examples to help you convert any feet measurement to centimeters accurately.

The Conversion Formula

Centimeters = Feet × 30.48

This formula works because 1 foot is defined as exactly 30.48 centimeters. This is an exact conversion - there's no rounding involved in the conversion factor itself.

Step-by-Step Conversion Process

Identify your measurement in feet

Write down the number of feet you want to convert. For example: 5.5 feet

Multiply by 30.48

Take your feet value and multiply it by 30.48. Example: 5.5 × 30.48 = 167.64

Add the unit "cm"

Your result is in centimeters. So 5.5 feet = 167.64 cm

Common Conversion Examples

1 foot

↓

30.48 cm

3 feet

↓

91.44 cm

5 feet

↓

152.4 cm

6 feet

↓

182.88 cm

10 feet

↓

304.8 cm

12 feet

↓

365.76 cm

Converting Feet and Inches to CM

If you have a measurement in feet and inches (like 5'10"), you need to convert both parts:

CM = (Feet × 30.48) + (Inches × 2.54)

Example: Convert 5 feet 10 inches to centimeters:

Feet part: 5 × 30.48 = 152.4 cm
Inches part: 10 × 2.54 = 25.4 cm
Total: 152.4 + 25.4 = 177.8 cm

How to Convert Feet to CM in Excel

Excel/Google Sheets Formulas

If your feet value is in cell A1, use this formula:

=A1*30.48

For feet and inches (feet in A1, inches in B1):

=A1*30.48+B1*2.54

Using the CONVERT function:

=CONVERT(A1,"ft","cm")

Quick Reference Table

Feet	CM
0.5	15.24
1	30.48
1.5	45.72
2	60.96
2.5	76.20
3	91.44

Feet	CM
4	121.92
5	152.40
6	182.88
7	213.36
8	243.84
10	304.80

Pro Tip: For quick mental math, remember that 3 feet is approximately 91 cm (close to 1 meter). This helps you estimate conversions quickly!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the formula to convert feet to cm?

The formula is: centimeters = feet × 30.48. Simply multiply any feet value by 30.48 to get the equivalent in centimeters.

How do you convert 5 feet to cm?

To convert 5 feet to cm, multiply 5 by 30.48. The result is 152.4 cm.

Why is 1 foot equal to 30.48 cm?

In 1959, the international yard and pound agreement defined 1 yard as exactly 0.9144 meters. Since 1 foot is 1/3 of a yard, 1 foot = 0.3048 meters = 30.48 centimeters.

How do I convert feet and inches to cm?

Use the formula: cm = (feet × 30.48) + (inches × 2.54). Convert each part separately and add them together.

How to convert feet to cm in Excel?

In Excel, use the formula =A1*30.48 where A1 contains your feet value. You can also use =CONVERT(A1,"ft","cm") for the same result.

Is the feet to cm conversion exact?

Yes, 1 foot = exactly 30.48 cm. This is a defined conversion, not an approximation.