How to Measure Distance on Google Maps
Google Maps can measure straight-line distance on desktop — but it can't save, share or export the result, and the feature is hidden on mobile. Here are the three working methods, plus when to skip Google entirely.
The shortcut: use our free calculator
The distance calculator measures the same straight-line distance between two addresses — and saves it as a share link, exports PNG, and reads real addresses (not just right-click points). No right-click gymnastics, works on mobile.
Method 1: Google Maps desktop — “Measure distance”
The built-in tool exists on desktop only. It measures straight-line (as-the-crow-flies) distance through a series of points.
- Open Google Maps on your computer (not the app).
- Right-click the starting point on the map.
- Choose Measure distance from the menu.
- Click the second point — a line appears with the total distance in the bottom-left panel. Add more points to trace a path.
- Press Esc or click the X to finish.
Limitations: the measurement disappears when you close the page — no save, no share link, no export. Mobile app: not available (you need the desktop site). And re-tracing a complex path by right-clicking is slow.
Method 2: A free distance calculator (save, share, mobile)
The distance calculator reads real addresses (not just map points), shows the straight-line distance with a driving estimate, and gives you a share link that keeps the measurement alive. Works on mobile, no Google account.
Method 3: Google My Maps for saved measurements
If the measurement must live inside Google's ecosystem permanently: create a map in Google My Maps, use its “Add directions” or measure via line shapes, and share the map. More setup, but the measurement persists as a Google-owned layer.
Which method should you use?
| Method | Save/share | Mobile | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Google Maps desktop | No | Desktop only | Quick one-off check |
| Free calculator | Share link + PNG | Yes | Address-based, repeat use |
| Google My Maps | Google-owned layer | Yes (app) | Persistent Google ecosystem maps |
Frequently asked questions
Can you measure distance in the Google Maps mobile app?
Not directly — the Measure Distance tool is desktop-only. On mobile you can work around it by requesting the desktop site in your browser, or use a free distance calculator that works natively on phones.
Does Google Maps measure driving distance?
The Measure Distance tool shows straight-line (as-the-crow-flies) distance only. For driving distance, use Google Maps directions — or a calculator that estimates the driving factor (typically 20–40% longer than the straight line).
Why did my measurement disappear?
Google Maps doesn't save Measure Distance results — closing or navigating away erases them. Copy the number immediately, or use a tool that gives you a shareable link.
How accurate is Google Maps distance measurement?
It uses the same map projection as this site's tools — accurate for straight-line distance, typically within 1%. Remember it's not driving distance and not legal-survey grade.
Is there a distance measure in Google Earth?
Yes — Google Earth Pro (desktop) has a ruler tool with path and polygon measurement, and measurements can be saved with the project. Good for 3D terrain contexts.
Page last updated . Data sources and methodology are described in the sections above and in About.
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