Converting inches to cm is needed constantly — checking a product dimension listed in inches against a metric measurement, converting a height figure, or working through school coursework. This page covers exactly how many centimeters are in an inch, a full reference chart, and worked examples across commonly searched values. The reverse conversion is at cm to inches. For other length units, use the length converter. Browse all converters if you need a different tool.
How Many CM Are in an Inch?
The Exact Conversion Factor
1 inch = 2.54 cm exactly
This is the internationally defined inch, meaning every inch to cm conversion here uses this exact factor: multiply the inch value by 2.54 to get centimeters.
Inches to CM Conversion Chart
Reference Table: 1 Inch to 40 Inches
| Inches | Centimeters |
|---|---|
| 1 in | 2.54 cm |
| 2 in | 5.08 cm |
| 3 in | 7.62 cm |
| 4 in | 10.16 cm |
| 5 in | 12.70 cm |
| 6 in | 15.24 cm |
| 10 in | 25.4 cm |
| 15 in | 38.1 cm |
| 20 in | 50.8 cm |
| 26 in | 66.04 cm |
| 30 in | 76.2 cm |
| 35 in | 88.9 cm |
| 40 in | 101.6 cm |
Worked Examples: Common Inches to CM Conversions
Example: 3 Inches to CM
3 × 2.54 = 7.62 cm
Example: 35 Inches to CM
35 × 2.54 = 88.9 cm
Converting Height: Feet and Inches to CM
Height Examples: 5'2", 5'5", 5'6", 5'7"
Converting a height given in feet and inches to centimeters requires first converting the total to inches (feet × 12, plus the extra inches), then multiplying by 2.54:
| Height | Total Inches | Centimeters |
|---|---|---|
| 5'2" | 62 in | 157.48 cm |
| 5'5" | 65 in | 165.1 cm |
| 5'6" | 66 in | 167.64 cm |
| 5'7" | 67 in | 170.18 cm |
For example, 5'2" converts as: (5 × 12) + 2 = 62 total inches, then 62 × 2.54 = 157.48 cm. Compound height conversions are also available in the length converter.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many cm are in an inch?
1 inch equals exactly 2.54 centimeters.
How do I convert inches to cm?
Multiply the inch value by 2.54. For example, 3 inches converts to 7.62 cm.
What is 35 inches in cm?
35 inches equals 88.9 cm.
How do I convert a height like 5'2" to centimeters?
Convert the height to total inches first, 5 feet times 12 plus 2 inches equals 62 total inches, then multiply by 2.54 to get 157.48 cm.
What is 5'6" in cm?
5 feet 6 inches converts to approximately 167.64 cm.
Is this the same as converting cm to inches?
No, this is the reverse direction. For converting cm to inches instead, the cm to inches converter is built for that specifically.
Is this inches to cm converter free to use?
Yes. It is free, requires no sign-up, and converts instantly.