Enter the total number of people and the total square footage into the Calculator. The calculator will evaluate the People Per Square Foot. 

People Per Square Foot Formula

PSF = P / SF

Variables:

  • PSF is the People Per Square Foot (people/ft^2)
  • P is the total number of people
  • SF is the total square footage

To calculate People Per Square Foot, divide the number of people by the total area.

How to Calculate People Per Square Foot?

The following steps outline how to calculate the People Per Square Foot.


  1. First, determine the total number of people. 
  2. Next, determine the total square footage. 
  3. Next, gather the formula from above = PSF = P / SF.
  4. Finally, calculate the People Per Square Foot.
  5. After inserting the variables and calculating the result, check your answer with the calculator above.

Example Problem : 

Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge.

total number of people = 99

total square footage = 102

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the importance of calculating People Per Square Foot?

Calculating People Per Square Foot is crucial for assessing the capacity of a space to ensure safety, comfort, and compliance with legal or event-specific density regulations. It helps in planning events, designing buildings, and managing crowds effectively.

Can People Per Square Foot calculations be used for outdoor events?

Yes, People Per Square Foot calculations can be applied to outdoor events to determine the maximum number of attendees that can safely occupy a given area, considering the need for movement, emergency exits, and other factors.

How does the shape of the space affect People Per Square Foot calculations?

The shape of the space can affect circulation and the effective use of the area. While the calculation itself remains the same, the layout and distribution of people within different shaped spaces can impact overall comfort and accessibility.

Are there any exceptions or adjustments needed when calculating People Per Square Foot for children or in a classroom setting?

Yes, when calculating for spaces primarily occupied by children or in educational settings, it may be necessary to adjust for lower People Per Square Foot to accommodate for smaller body sizes, increased movement, and additional space for activities or classroom essentials.