Measure distances and areas

Google Earth lets you measure various dimensions of points, paths, and polygons. Each feature type includes some terrain statistics, which are provided as advanced measurements.

Note: For best results, measure using a top-down view and the satellite basemap.

Terrain statistics initially vary with map view resolution and are refined once drawing the feature is complete. All values depend on inferred data, which may have errors. All measurement results are estimates, may not be 100% accurate, and are not substitutes for onsite or survey-grade measurements.

Length or distance and area measurement results don't account for changes in elevation.

The following table summarizes the measurement information provided for each feature type.

Feature type	Measurement information
Between two points or locations	Length Heading Advanced measurements: Minimum, median, and maximum elevation points of the terrain Minimum, median, and maximum slope of the terrain
Path (3+ points)	Length Advanced measurements: Minimum, median, and maximum elevation points of the terrain Minimum, median, and maximum slope of the terrain
Polygon	Perimeter Area Advanced measurements: Minimum, median, and maximum elevation points of the terrain

Note: These instructions only apply to Google Earth on web and mobile. Learn how to measure distances in Google Earth Pro.

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