Check Your Elevation Instantly

Discover how high above sea level you are

Elevation of Popular Cities

Explore elevation data for major cities around the world.

Elevation of Seattle

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Elevation Tools

Powerful tools to analyze and compare elevation data

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Elevation Tools

Calculate air pressure, temperature changes, and oxygen levels at different elevations.

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Compare Elevations

Compare elevation data between multiple locations to understand height differences.

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Understanding Elevation

Discover how elevation affects our world and learn about the science behind altitude measurements.

What is Elevation?

Elevation measures height above sea level - a crucial factor that affects everything from cooking to climate. While often confused with altitude, elevation specifically refers to the height of points on Earth's surface, not height above ground (like in an airplane).

Learn more about elevation vs. altitude

Elevation: Refers to height above sea level for points on Earth's surface (like cities or mountains)
Altitude: Typically refers to height above ground level (like for airplanes or satellites)
Mean Sea Level: A theoretical reference point based on the geoid - the shape Earth's surface would take if it were all ocean without winds or tides

How We Measure It

Modern devices use two primary methods: barometric pressure sensors in smartphones and GPS coordinates with satellite data. Each method has its own advantages and best use cases.

Learn about measurement methods

Altimeter Method: Uses barometric pressure sensors to measure atmospheric pressure differences. Works offline and can be more accurate in areas with poor GPS reception.
Digital Elevation Model (DEM): Uses satellite data to create detailed elevation maps. GPS coordinates are used to fetch the corresponding elevation reading.
Professional Surveys: Can achieve accuracy within centimeters using specialized equipment.

Why It Matters

From the peaks of mountains to coastal cities, elevation shapes our environment and daily activities in countless ways. Understanding your elevation helps you adapt to its effects.

See how elevation affects daily life

Cooking: Water boils at lower temperatures, affecting cooking times and recipes
Weather: Temperature typically decreases with elevation
Athletics: Higher elevations have less oxygen, affecting physical performance
Agriculture: Different plants thrive at different elevations
Climate: Elevation influences local weather patterns and precipitation

Fun Fact: Earth's elevation varies dramatically - from Mount Everest at 29,029 feet above sea level to the Mariana Trench at -35,814 feet below sea level!