Have you ever wanted to know the exact distance between two locations without actually traveling there? Maybe you’re planning a walking route, checking the distance between cities, measuring land for a project, or simply curious about how far something is from your home.
Google Maps has a built-in distance measurement tool that allows you to calculate the exact distance between multiple points on the map. Many people don’t even realize this feature exists — but once you start using it, it becomes incredibly helpful.
In this complete guide, you’ll learn:
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What the distance measurement feature does
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How to measure distance on a desktop
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How to measure distance on Android
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How to measure distance on iPhone
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How to measure multiple points
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How to switch between kilometers and miles
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Practical uses of this feature
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Common problems and solutions
By the end of this article, you’ll confidently measure distances anywhere in the world using Google Maps.
What Does “Measure Distance” Mean in Google Maps?
The “Measure distance” feature allows you to calculate the straight-line distance between two or more points on the map.
Important:
This measures direct distance (as the crow flies) — not road distance.
If you want driving distance, you should use the Directions feature instead.
When Should You Use the Measure Distance Tool?
Here are some common situations:
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Planning a walking or hiking route
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Measuring property boundaries
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Checking the distance between two cities
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Planning construction projects
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Calculating running or cycling routes
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Studying geography
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Estimating travel range
It’s especially useful for students, travelers, real estate professionals, and outdoor enthusiasts.
How to Measure Distance in Google Maps (Desktop Version)
Let’s start with the easiest method — using a computer.
Step 1: Open Google Maps
Go to:
maps.google.com
Make sure you’re signed into your Google account (optional, but helpful).
Step 2: Right-Click on Starting Point
Find your starting location on the map.
Right-click on the exact spot.
A small menu will appear.
Step 3: Click “Measure distance”
From the menu, select:
Measure distance
You’ll now see a small black circle appear at your starting point.
Step 4: Click on Second Location
Click anywhere else on the map to mark your second point.
Google Maps will automatically draw a straight line between the two points and display the distance at the bottom of the screen.
The distance will appear in:
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Kilometers (km)
OR -
Miles (mi)
Depending on your settings.
How to Measure Multiple Points (Desktop)
You can measure more than two points.
Simply:
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Keep clicking additional locations on the map
Google Maps will:
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Add each segment
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Calculate the total combined distance
This helps measure custom routes or irregular land shapes.
How to Remove a Point
If you make a mistake:
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Click and drag the point to adjust
OR -
Right-click on the point and select Remove
To clear everything:
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Right-click anywhere
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Click Clear measurement
How to Measure Distance in Google Maps (Android)
Now let’s look at how to do it on your Android phone.
Step 1: Open the Google Maps App
Launch the app.
Step 2: Drop a Pin
Press and hold on your starting location.
A red pin will appear.
Step 3: Tap the Location Name
At the bottom, tap the location panel.
Scroll down until you see:
Measure distance
Tap it.
Step 4: Move the Map
You’ll now see a crosshair in the center of your screen.
Move the map so the crosshair reaches your second location.
The distance will update automatically at the bottom.
Step 5: Add More Points
To add additional points:
Tap the + Add point button.
This allows you to measure multiple segments.
How to Measure Distance in Google Maps (iPhone)
The process is very similar to Android.
Step 1: Open Google Maps
Launch the app.
Step 2: Drop a Pin
Press and hold on your starting location.
Step 3: Tap the Location Panel
Scroll down and tap:
Measure distance
Step 4: Move the Map
Drag the map to position the crosshair on your next location.
Distance will automatically calculate.
Step 5: Add Points
Tap:
Add point
To include multiple locations.
Difference Between Measuring Distance and Getting Directions
This is important to understand.
| Feature | Measure Distance | Directions |
|---|---|---|
| Straight line | Yes | No |
| Road routes | No | Yes |
| Traffic updates | No | Yes |
| Multiple segments | Yes | Yes |
| Turn-by-turn navigation | No | Yes |
If you need road distance, use Directions.
If you need direct measurement, use Measure distance.
How to Change Between Miles and Kilometers
Google Maps automatically selects units based on your region.
To change units:
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Tap profile picture
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Go to Settings
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Tap Distance units
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Choose:
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Kilometers
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Miles
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This setting applies across the app.
Practical Uses of Measuring Distance
Here are some smart ways people use this feature:
1. Real Estate
Measure land size or property boundaries.
2. Fitness Planning
Calculate running or walking routes.
3. Travel Planning
Check how far attractions are from your hotel.
4. Construction & Engineering
Estimate project dimensions.
5. Education
Teach geography and map reading.
Tips for Accurate Measurement
To improve accuracy:
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Zoom in closely before placing points
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Use satellite view for better precision
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Add more points for curved routes
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Double-check starting and ending locations
More points = more accurate results.
Common Problems and Solutions
Problem 1: “Measure Distance” Option Not Visible
Solution:
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Make sure you drop a pin first
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Update the Google Maps app
Problem 2: Distance Seems Incorrect
Solution:
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Remember, it measures straight-line distance
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Use Directions for road distance
Problem 3: Cannot Add Multiple Points
Solution:
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Tap “Add poin.t”
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Ensure you’re in Measure mode
Is Measuring Distance Free?
Yes.
The distance measurement tool is completely free for all Google Maps users.
No subscription required.
Does It Work Offline?
No.
The measurement tool requires internet access.
Offline maps do not support distance measurement.
Final Thoughts
Measuring distance in Google Maps is a simple yet powerful feature that many people overlook. Whether you’re planning a trip, measuring land, or calculating a walking route, this tool makes it easy to get accurate straight-line distances anywhere in the world.
To quickly recap:
On Desktop:
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Right-click
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Select Measure distance
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Click additional points
On Mobile:
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Drop a pin
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Tap Measure distance
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Add points
Within seconds, you’ll know exactly how far two or more locations are from each other.
Now that you know how to measure distance in Google Maps, try it yourself and explore the world with precision.