Practical guide

How to draw a radius on Google Maps

Google Maps cannot create an exact radius circle by itself. Use the free tool below, then share the result or export it to Google My Maps.

Try a 5 mile radius

Take it with you

Export your radius map

Download every circle in a standard format for GIS tools, spreadsheets, or Google Earth.

Share your radius map

Copy this link. Anyone with it can see your circles and labels.

Google Maps does not include a radius tool

Google Maps can measure a line between points, but its standard web and mobile apps do not have a command for drawing a circle around an address. Google My Maps can display imported polygons, so the most reliable workflow is to create an accurate radius here and export it as KML.

Method 1: draw and share the map here

  1. Search the address or click the exact center point in the map above.
  2. Enter the distance and choose miles, kilometers, meters, or feet.
  3. Add more circles, labels, or colors if your map needs comparisons.
  4. Select Share to copy or send a URL that recreates the map.

This is the fastest method when recipients only need to view and interact with the radius. The shared URL encodes the circle settings; it does not require an account or upload your project to a private database.

Method 2: import the radius into Google My Maps

  1. Finish your circles above and select Export.
  2. Choose KML and save the file.
  3. Open Google My Maps and create a new map or select an existing one.
  4. Choose Import on a layer and upload the downloaded KML file.

The imported boundary is a polygon approximating the geodesic circle with many points. You can then combine it with markers and layers in My Maps. If you need to analyze the geometry in QGIS, ArcGIS, or Mapbox, choose GeoJSON instead.

Why a circle can look different at different latitudes

Online maps usually use the Web Mercator projection. It stretches areas more strongly toward the poles, so a geographically correct circle can look different on screen depending on its latitude and size. The stored radius remains a ground distance in meters.

Questions, answered

Frequently asked questions

Can Google Maps draw a radius circle?

The standard Google Maps website and app do not provide a built-in tool for drawing a circle with an exact radius. You need a radius tool or a KML overlay.

Can I open my circle in Google My Maps?

Yes. Export your circles as KML, create or open a map in Google My Maps, choose Import on a layer, and upload the KML file.

Can I share the map without Google My Maps?

Yes. The Share button creates a direct Radius Map Tool URL that restores your complete map and requires no account.

Does exporting to KML preserve the circle?

Yes. Each radius is exported as a polygon with points around its boundary, which Google Earth and Google My Maps can display.