Instructions/Notes
This tool calculates the straight-line distance between two latitude/longitude points provided in decimal degrees. Additionally, this tool will convert your decimal coordinates to degrees minutes seconds (DMS).
This tool can be used as a distance between coordinates calculator, GPS distance calculator, or great-circle distance calculator. Simply enter two latitude and longitude points to calculate the straight-line distance between them.
Note: Positive latitude values (1 to 90) represent locations in the northern hemisphere (north of the equator), whereas negative latitude values (1- to -90) are locations in the southern hemisphere (south of the equator).
Positive longitude values (1 to 180) are locations in the eastern hemisphere (east of prime meridian ), whereas negative values (-1 to -180) are locations in the western hemisphere (west of prime meridian ).
See hemisphere map from Encyclopedia Britannica for an illustration.
How this latitude/longitude distance calculator works
This calculator finds the straight-line distance between two coordinate points using their latitude and longitude in decimal degrees. The result is the great-circle distance, sometimes called the "as-the-crow-flies" distance.
Important note about distance types
This tool calculates straight-line geographic distance, not driving distance or walking distance. Road travel distances are usually longer because roads rarely follow a direct path.
Units provided
- Miles for common U.S. distance reference
- Kilometers for metric distance reference
- Nautical miles for marine and aviation use
Related tools
- Lat/Long Degrees, Minutes, Seconds (DMS) to Decimal Degrees converter
- Convert decimal degrees to degrees, minutes, seconds
- Browse more calculators, converters, and generators
Example uses
- Measure distance between two GPS coordinates
- Estimate aviation or marine navigation distance
- Compare landmarks, cities, or waypoints
- Convert decimal coordinates into DMS format
Frequently Asked Questions
How is distance calculated between coordinates?
This tool uses the great-circle distance formula, which calculates the shortest path between two points on the Earth's surface.
Is this driving distance?
No. This is straight-line ("as-the-crow-flies") distance. Driving distance is usually longer.
What format should coordinates be in?
Enter coordinates in decimal degrees (e.g., 40.7128, -74.0060).
Can I use this for GPS coordinates?
Yes. This tool works with any GPS coordinates worldwide.
