Thermometers show temperature in Celsius or Fahrenheit depending on where they were made. This chart helps you read a body temperature in either scale quickly.
This article is general information, not medical advice. Contact a doctor if you are worried about a fever, especially in babies.
In this guide
- Body temperature conversion chart
- The formula
- Quick mental shortcut
- Convert any value instantly
Body temperature conversion chart
| °C | °F | Typical description |
|---|---|---|
| 35.0 | 95.0 | Low (possible hypothermia below 35 °C) |
| 36.1 | 97.0 | Normal range |
| 36.5 | 97.7 | Normal range |
| 37.0 | 98.6 | Average normal |
| 37.5 | 99.5 | Upper normal / slightly raised |
| 38.0 | 100.4 | Fever (common threshold) |
| 38.5 | 101.3 | Fever |
| 39.0 | 102.2 | Fever |
| 39.5 | 103.1 | High fever |
| 40.0 | 104.0 | High fever – seek medical advice |
The formula
°F = °C × 9/5 + 32 and °C = (°F − 32) × 5/9.
Example: 38.5 °C × 1.8 = 69.3, + 32 = 101.3 °F.
Quick mental shortcut
Remember three anchor points: 37 °C ≈ 98.6 °F (normal), 38 °C ≈ 100.4 °F (fever threshold) and 40 °C = 104 °F (high fever). Each 1 °C step equals 1.8 °F, so 39 °C is 100.4 + 1.8 = 102.2 °F.
Convert any value instantly
Use our Celsius to Fahrenheit converter or the reverse Fahrenheit to Celsius converter.
Frequently asked questions
What is 37 °C in Fahrenheit?
37 °C is 98.6 °F, the classic “normal” body temperature.
Is 99 °F a fever?
99 °F (37.2 °C) is usually within the normal range; fever is commonly defined as 100.4 °F (38 °C) or higher.
Does normal temperature vary?
Yes, it varies between people, time of day and measurement method (mouth, ear, armpit).
