How to use the Median Calculator
Paste numbers in any order, separated by commas, spaces or new lines. The calculator sorts them and returns the middle value.
Odd and even counts
With an odd number of values, the median is the one in the middle after sorting: for 2, 3, 7, 7 and 9 it is 7. With an even count there are two middle values, so the median is their average. For 2, 3, 7 and 9, that is (3 + 7) ÷ 2 = 5.
Why the median is often fairer
The median only cares about the middle of the list, so a few very large or very small values do not move it. That is why official statistics report median income and median house prices. If the mean and median are far apart, your data is skewed and the median is usually the better summary.
How it works
Sort values; take the middle value or mean of two middle values.
Examples
- 2, 4, 6, 8, 10
Median: 6
- Even count: 3, 7, 1, 9
Median: 5
- Salaries with an outlier
Median: 47,000
Limitations and assumptions
Uses every value you paste. Decimals and negative numbers are fine.
Frequently asked questions
How do I find the median?
Sort the numbers. If there is an odd count, take the middle one; if even, average the two middle ones.
Median or mean?
The median resists outliers, so it better describes skewed data such as incomes and house prices.
Does order matter?
No, the tool sorts for you.
Can it handle decimals and negatives?
Yes.