Body Temperature Converter

Reference ranges

Normal body temperature is commonly cited as 37 °C, but healthy readings vary between roughly 36.1 °C and 37.2 °C depending on the individual, the time of day and where the measurement was taken.

Celsius	Fahrenheit	Commonly described as
Below 35.0	Below 95.0	Below normal range
36.1 – 37.2	97.0 – 99.0	Typical range
37.3 – 37.9	99.1 – 100.3	Slightly elevated
38.0 – 38.9	100.4 – 102.0	Elevated
39.0 and above	102.2 and above	Substantially elevated

Measurement site changes the reading

Oral, axillary, tympanic, temporal and rectal measurements do not produce identical numbers for the same person at the same moment. Axillary readings typically run below oral, and rectal readings above. When tracking a temperature over time, use the same method each time so the comparison is meaningful.

Converting between scales

To convert Celsius to Fahrenheit, multiply by 9, divide by 5, then add 32. To go the other way, subtract 32, multiply by 5, then divide by 9. Kelvin is Celsius plus 273.15.

Frequently asked questions

What is a normal body temperature?

Around 37 °C (98.6 °F) is the conventional figure, though healthy readings commonly range from about 36.1 °C to 37.2 °C depending on the person, time of day and measurement site.

How do I convert Celsius to Fahrenheit?

Multiply the Celsius value by 9, divide by 5, then add 32. For the reverse, subtract 32, multiply by 5, then divide by 9.

Do different thermometers give different readings?

Yes. Oral, underarm, ear, forehead and rectal measurements produce different values for the same person. Use the same method consistently when tracking a temperature.

What is body temperature in Kelvin?

Add 273.15 to the Celsius value. Normal body temperature of 37 °C is 310.15 K.