What is the ft² to Acres Converter?

This tool converts square feet to acres, helping you understand residential lot sizes in terms more commonly used for land.

When Square Feet Become Acres

Real estate listings often show lot sizes in square feet, but acres give a better sense of scale for larger properties. This conversion helps when:

Comparing properties — is 10,000 ft² a big lot or small?
Understanding zoning — minimum lot sizes often stated in acres
Planning landscaping — visualizing outdoor space potential
Discussing with surveyors — professionals often reference acres

The Conversion

43,560 square feet = 1 acre

This means a typical suburban lot of 8,000-10,000 ft² is roughly 0.18-0.23 acres (less than a quarter acre). Understanding this helps set realistic expectations about yard size.

Lot Size Context

Average US residential lots have shrunk over decades. In the 1970s, quarter-acre lots (10,890 ft²) were common. Today, many new developments feature lots under 6,000 ft² (0.14 acres).

How to Use

Enter your lot size in square feet
See the acre equivalent instantly
Compare with other properties you're considering

Typical Residential Lot Sizes

What different lot sizes look like in acres:

5,000 ft² = 0.11 acres — compact urban lot
8,000 ft² = 0.18 acres — typical suburban lot
10,890 ft² = 0.25 acres — quarter-acre lot
21,780 ft² = 0.50 acres — half-acre lot
43,560 ft² = 1.00 acre — one full acre

What Can You Do With Different Lot Sizes?

Quarter-acre lots typically allow for a home, garage, driveway, and modest yard. Half-acre lots offer room for pools, gardens, or outbuildings. Full-acre properties provide significant privacy and space for hobby farming.

Swap Units

Click the swap button (↔) to convert from acres to square feet.

Converter Features

Instant Real-Time Conversion

See acre equivalents as you enter square footage. Quickly evaluate lot sizes without manual calculations.

Bidirectional Conversion

Switch between ft² and acres instantly. Enter values in either unit depending on what information you have.

One-Click Copy

Copy acre results for property comparisons, real estate listings, or discussions with land surveyors.

Lot Size Reference

Common residential lot sizes in acres:

5,000 ft² (0.11 ac) - Compact urban lot
10,890 ft² (0.25 ac) - Quarter-acre lot
21,780 ft² (0.50 ac) - Half-acre lot
43,560 ft² (1.00 ac) - One full acre

Mobile-Optimized Design

Check lot sizes on your phone while viewing properties or discussing options with real estate agents.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many square feet are in one acre?

43,560 square feet = 1 acre. This is the exact, legal definition used in US land surveys and real estate.

Why is the number 43,560 so specific?

One acre equals 66 × 660 feet (1 chain × 1 furlong), which works out to 43,560 ft². These measurements derive from traditional English land surveying units.

What's considered a good lot size for a home?

It depends on location. Urban lots average 5,000-7,500 ft² (0.11-0.17 acres). Suburban lots range from 0.25-0.50 acres. Rural properties often start at 1+ acres.

How much yard space does each lot size provide?

Subtract the house footprint from total lot size. A 2,000 ft² house on a quarter-acre lot (10,890 ft²) leaves about 8,890 ft² for yard, driveway, and other structures.

Is a quarter-acre lot enough for a pool?

Generally yes. A quarter acre (10,890 ft²) typically provides enough space for a house, garage, yard, and an average-sized pool (about 500-800 ft²), depending on setback requirements.

How do I calculate lot size from dimensions?

Multiply length × width in feet to get square feet. For example, a 100' × 150' lot = 15,000 ft² = 0.34 acres.

Square Feet to Acres