Distance Between Points Calculator
This calculator finds the distance between two points in a coordinate system. It uses the Euclidean distance formula (derived from the Pythagorean theorem) to calculate the straight-line distance. The tool also computes Manhattan distance and the midpoint between the two points. Distance calculations are fundamental in geometry, physics, navigation, and many other fields.
Distance formulas
Euclidean distance: d = sqrt((x2-x1)^2 + (y2-y1)^2)
Manhattan distance: d = |x2-x1| + |y2-y1|
Midpoint: M = ((x1+x2)/2, (y1+y2)/2)
Distance: frequently asked questions
What is the distance formula?
The Euclidean distance between two points (x1, y1) and (x2, y2) is: d = sqrt((x2-x1)^2 + (y2-y1)^2). This formula comes from the Pythagorean theorem and calculates the straight-line distance.
What is Manhattan distance?
Manhattan distance (also called taxicab distance) is the sum of the absolute differences of coordinates: d = |x2-x1| + |y2-y1|. It is called Manhattan distance because it resembles traveling on a city grid.
How do I use the distance formula?
Enter the coordinates (x1, y1) and (x2, y2) of two points. The calculator uses the Euclidean distance formula to find the straight-line distance between them.
What is the midpoint?
The midpoint between two points is the average of their coordinates: midpoint = ((x1+x2)/2, (y1+y2)/2). This is the point exactly halfway between the two points.
Can the distance be negative?
No, distance is always non-negative. The distance between a point and itself is zero. Distance measures magnitude and direction does not apply.
Methodology
Reviewed by the CalculatorHub team, edited by James Graham, 14 June 2026. See our methodology.