How Many Stories is 500 Feet? Simple Examples For You
Understanding How many stories is 500 feet can feel confusing. Is it a skyscraper? Or is it something smaller? Without relatable comparisons, it’s tough to imagine how many stories are there in a 500-foot building.
But worry not. I’m an expert in size and measurements, and I’ve got a correct answer for you.
In simple terms, a 500-foot building typically has between 40 and 50 stories. The exact number depends on two things:
- The type of building
- The height of each floor.
In 500-foot residential buildings, there are 50 stories. In comparison, commercial buildings will have about 33 to 41 stories.
Curious to know why?
Here, I’m breaking down how building types and designs decide the story counts. We’ll also explore 11 real-world comparisons that will give you an idea of how big a 500-foot structure really is.
How Many Stories Is 500 Feet? How Tall Is 500 Ft Visually
A building that is 500 feet tall usually has between 40 and 50 stories. The exact number depends on the height of each story. Residential buildings often have floors that are about 10 feet tall, while commercial buildings typically have taller floors ranging from 12 to 15 feet.
500 feet is a towering height that can be compared to well-known structures and everyday measurements. For example, it’s slightly shorter than the Washington Monument, which is 555 feet tall. Understanding this height helps to visualize buildings of similar size.
To break it down, 500 feet is the same as 5 football fields placed end to end. If you think of an average person who is 6 feet tall, you’d need about 83 people stacked one on top of another to equal 500 feet. Interesting, right?
500-foot Building Comparison to Landmarks
Landmarks are an easy way to understand this height. Let’s start with The Statue of Liberty. Did you know it is 305 feet tall? So, you can guess that a 500-foot building is significantly taller. Similarly, the Arc de Triomphe in Paris is about 164 feet tall, so 500 feet is roughly three times as high.
In cities with tall buildings, 500 feet is noticeable but not the tallest. It fits into the category of mid-rise skyscrapers. Buildings like these often stand out in smaller towns or suburbs, where they dominate the skyline.
5 Examples of 500-Foot Tall Buildings
Examples of 500-foot tall buildings are:
- Marina City Towers
- Approximately half of the Eiffel Tower
- Torre Latinoamericana
- Spring Temple Buddha (With Throne) (China)
- Half of U.S. Bank Tower.
Marina City Towers, Chicago
The Marina City Towers in Chicago are approximately 588 feet tall, but the portion around 500 feet gives a clear sense of what this height looks like. Each floor in the Marina Towers averages about 10 to 12 feet. At 500 feet, you reach the first 40 to 45 stories of the towers.
Torre Latinoamericana, Mexico City
The Torre Latinoamericana in Mexico City stands at 597 feet and is another good example of a building close to 500 feet. This tower has 44 stories, and its first 40 stories equal 500 feet.
Each floor in the Torre Latinoamericana is about 13 feet tall. The building is primarily used for offices, and it has a popular observation deck near the top. Its earthquake-resistant design makes it a marvel of engineering.
One Fifty One, Sydney
One Fifty One in Sydney, Australia, is a residential building that stands close to 500 feet. It’s a good example of how residential structures are different from commercial ones. The building has 50 stories, with each floor averaging about 10 feet tall.
The apartments in One Fifty One are designed for luxury. This type of building shows how height can be used to provide stunning views.
U.S. Bank Tower, Los Angeles (Half of It)
The U.S. Bank Tower in Los Angeles is much taller overall, at 1,018 feet. So, imagine half of it and it is 500 feet. This portion of the building houses commercial spaces, including offices.
The U.S. Bank Tower shows how commercial buildings make use of taller floors to create open, professional spaces.
Spring Temple Buddha (With Throne), China
The Spring Temple Buddha in China is one of the tallest statues in China. The statue itself is 420 feet (128 meters) tall. With its throne (a lotus-shaped pedestal), it is approximately 500 feet tall. Completed in 2008, it was built with 1,100 pieces of copper and weighs over 1,000 tons.
It represents the Vairocana Buddha, a symbol of wisdom and enlightenment.
So, do check it out if you ever visit Zhaocun, Henan Province, near the Fodu Shan Scenic Area.
After comparing 500 feet to buildings, see what 100 feet looks like. Check out 40 things that are around 100 feet long or big.
How Do You Calculate the Number of Stories in 500 Feet?
To calculate, divide the total height by the average height of each floor. Residential floors are typically 10 feet tall, so 500 feet divided by 10 equals 50 stories. For commercial buildings, where floors are often 12 to 15 feet tall. So, 500 feet would equal 33 to 41 stories in commercial buildings.
But what about mixed-use buildings? These are those that combine residential, commercial, and even hotel spaces. In a mixed-use building, residential floors are 10 feet tall, while commercial and hotel floors are taller.
Many tall buildings include mechanical floors or decorative elements like spires. For example, a building listed as 500 feet tall might only have 45 usable stories if part of the height is dedicated to decorative elements.
11 Things that are 500 feet Long or Tall
Here’s a list of things that are 500 feet long or tall:
- Blackpool Tower in England
- Five Blue Whales
- Three Olympic-Sized Swimming Pools
- 50 Percent of a Modern Cruise Ship
- 90 Percent of Washington Monument
- Approximately half of the Eiffel Tower
- 40 Basketball Court Sidelines
- 10 Semi-Truck Trailers
- 100 Shopping Carts Lined Up
- 50 Midsize Sedans Parked End-to-End
- Two City Blocks
Five Blue Whales
| Factor | Details |
| Purpose/Use | Marine species essential for ocean ecosystems |
| Material/Composition | Blubber, bones, and skin |
| Notable Feature/Fact | Largest animals on Earth, around 100 feet long |
| Real-World Context | Found in oceans worldwide |
Blue whales are usually about 100 feet long. If you line up five of them, their total length is 500 feet. This makes them a fantastic example of size in the natural world.
Blue whales live in oceans and play an important role in keeping ecosystems balanced. They feed on tiny organisms called krill, eating large amounts every day. Despite their size, they are gentle creatures.
Marine biologists study blue whales to learn more about their behavior and migration. Whale-watching tours allow people to see them in their natural habitats, which has increased awareness of their importance.
When you think of five blue whales in a row, it gives you a clear picture of how long 500 feet really is. This comparison shows the amazing scale of nature.
Three Olympic-Sized Swimming Pools
| Factor | Details |
| Purpose/Use | Competitive swimming and recreation |
| Material/Composition | Concrete, steel, and tiles |
| Notable Feature/Fact | Each pool is 164 feet long |
| Real-World Context | Used in sports events and local recreation |
If you place three Olympic-sized swimming pool end to end, their combined length would be about 492 feet. Adding just a little more distance makes it 500 feet, which is a close comparison.
These pools are used in international swimming competitions, including the Olympics. They follow strict measurements to ensure fairness for all swimmers. Many public pools are also built to similar standards for community use.
Athletes and coaches use Olympic pools for training, while the public enjoys them for recreation.
Thinking of 500 feet as three Olympic-sized swimming pools makes the measurement relatable. It’s an easy way to connect a large number to something many people have seen or used.
90 Percent of the Washington Monument
| Factor | Details |
| Purpose/Use | Monument to George Washington |
| Material/Composition | Marble, granite, and bluestone |
| Notable Feature/Fact | Stands at 555 feet tall |
| Real-World Context | Famous historical site in Washington, D.C. |
The Washington Monument in Washington, D.C., is 555 feet tall. Ninety percent of its height is 500 feet. Built in honor of George Washington, the monument is a symbol of American history. Its simple, tall design has made it a centerpiece of the National Mall.
Millions of tourists visit the Washington monument every year. Schools often organize trips to teach students about its historical importance. Architects also study it for its design and cultural significance.
Using 500 feet as 90 percent of the Washington Monument makes this length relatable. It’s a clear and meaningful example.
50 Percent of a Modern Cruise Ship
| Factor | Details |
| Purpose/Use | Luxury travel and entertainment |
| Material/Composition | Steel, aluminum, and composite materials |
| Notable Feature/Fact | Many cruise ships are over 1,000 feet long |
| Real-World Context | Floating hotels |
Modern cruise ships are huge, often over 1,000 feet long. Half of one of these ships equals 500 feet, making this a great way to understand such a large length.
Cruise ships are designed to feel like floating cities. They have restaurants, pools, theaters, and even shopping areas onboard. These features allow passengers to enjoy vacations on the water in complete comfort.
Passengers, cruise staff, and shipbuilders all deal with these ships regularly. Ports are specially built to handle their size and ensure they can dock safely.
Approximately Half of the Eiffel Tower
| Factor | Details |
| Purpose/Use | Observation tower and tourist attraction |
| Material/Composition | Wrought iron |
| Notable Feature/Fact | Full height is 1,083 feet |
| Real-World Context | Iconic landmark in Paris, France |
The Eiffel Tower in Paris is just over 1000 feet tall (including its antenna). Half of the Eiffel tower is around 500 feet, making it a great example. Its unique lattice structure and impressive height have made it a favorite destination for millions of visitors each year.
The main use of the Eiffel Tower is as a tourist attraction. It also serves as an observation tower, giving visitors incredible views of Paris from its upper levels. In addition, it houses antennas used for broadcasting signals.
Tourists, architects, and engineers are the primary people who deal with the Eiffel Tower. Tourists visit to enjoy its beauty, while architects study its design. Engineers maintain the structure and ensure it remains safe for visitors.
Blackpool Tower in England
| Factor | Details |
| Purpose/Use | Observation and entertainment venue |
| Material/Composition | Steel and iron |
| Notable Feature/Fact | Built in 1894, inspired by the Eiffel Tower |
| Real-World Context | A major tourist spot in Blackpool, England |
Blackpool Tower is around 500 feet tall, which is why it stands out in the skyline. Inside, you’ll find an observation deck, a ballroom, and even a circus.
Tourists from around the world visit Blackpool Tower. Locals enjoy events there, and photographers love capturing its unique design. It’s also a great spot for history enthusiasts who want to learn about its rich past.
10 Basketball Court Sidelines
| Factor | Details |
| Purpose/Use | Sports and recreation |
| Material/Composition | Hardwood (court) |
| Notable Feature/Fact | Sideline length is 50 feet |
| Real-World Context | Standard size for professional basketball games |
A basketball court sideline is 50 feet long. To reach 500 feet, you would need 10 sidelines placed in a row. This makes basketball courts a practical way to understand 500 feet.
Basketball courts are designed to follow specific measurements set by organizations like the NBA. They are built with hardwood floors and markings (that define boundaries for players). These courts are used for
- Games
- Training
- Recreational play.
The main purpose of basketball courts is to host games and practices. They are also used for other events, such as community gatherings or sports camps (due to their open spaces).
10 Semi-Truck Trailers
| Factor | Details |
| Purpose/Use | Transporting goods |
| Material/Composition | Steel, aluminum |
| Notable Feature/Fact | Each trailer is about 53 feet long |
| Real-World Context | Commonly used for logistics and supply chains |
A standard semi-truck trailer is approximately 50 to 53 feet long. Placing 10 trailers end to end gives you a total length of 500 feet. This comparison works well because semi-trucks are common on highways and in supply chains.
Semi-truck trailers are designed to carry heavy loads and protect goods during transportation. These trailers are used by:
- Logistics companies
- Manufacturers
- Retailers.
Truck drivers are the main people who operate them, and logistics managers coordinate their routes.
100 Shopping Carts Lined Up
| Factor | Details |
| Purpose/Use | Carrying items while shopping |
| Material/Composition | Steel, plastic |
| Notable Feature/Fact | Each cart is about 5 feet long |
| Real-World Context | Found in grocery stores and retail shops |
A standard shopping cart is about 5 feet long. If you line up 100 carts end to end, they will stretch to 500 feet. This is a simple example because shopping carts are used in everyday life.
Shopping carts are designed to help people carry groceries or items while shopping. Cart manufacturers produce them in large quantities for supermarkets worldwide. Their design includes a basket and wheels for easy movement.
The main users of shopping carts are customers in grocery stores and retail shops. Store staff also rely on them for organizing and restocking items.
50 Midsize Sedans Parked End-to-End
| Factor | Details |
| Purpose/Use | Transportation for individuals and families |
| Material/Composition | Steel, aluminum, glass |
| Notable Feature/Fact | Each sedan is about 10 feet long |
| Real-World Context | Common vehicle type for everyday use |
A midsize sedan is typically 10 feet long. Lining up 50 of these cars in a row equals 500 feet. Sedan is a common vehicle, making this a relatable way to explain this measurement.
Sedans are for personal and family transportation. They are known for their comfort, fuel efficiency, and practicality. These cars are popular choices for commuting, road trips, and everyday errands.
Drivers, mechanics, and car manufacturers interact with sedans regularly. Families use them for transportation, while dealerships sell them to consumers. They are a big part of the global automotive industry.
Two City Blocks
| Factor | Details |
| Purpose/Use | Organizing urban spaces |
| Material/Composition | Varies (asphalt, concrete, buildings) |
| Notable Feature/Fact | Each block is about 250 feet long |
| Real-World Context | Common layout in most cities |
In many cities, a single city block is about 250 feet long. Two blocks placed end to end measure 500 feet. This comparison is helpful because city blocks are common measurements in urban planning.
City blocks are used to organize streets and buildings in urban areas. They define neighborhoods, create walking paths, and help traffic flow smoothly. Their size can vary, but 250 feet is a standard length in many places.
Once you understand how tall 500 feet is, it may help to also consider what 400 feet looks like. Read how they compare.
FAQs
How Many Stories is 1,000 Feet?
A building that is 1,000 feet tall typically has between 80 and 100 stories, depending on the height of each story. Residential buildings often have floors around 10 feet tall. This would result in a building with about 100 stories. On the other hand, commercial buildings will have 61 to 83 stories.
A 1,000-foot structure is close to iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, which is 1,083 feet tall. To understand 1,000 feet better, consider buildings like The Salesforce Tower. It’s in San Francisco, and is 1,070 feet tall. Buildings like these are major parts of urban skylines and offer impressive functionality.
How Many Stories is 400 Feet?
A 400-foot-tall building generally has between 30 and 40 stories. This depends on whether the building is residential, commercial, or mixed-use. Residential buildings, with 10-foot floors, can fit 40 stories into 400 feet. However, commercial buildings may have only 27 to 33 stories.
Mid-rise buildings of this height are commonly seen in cities around the world. They are often used for residential apartments, mid-sized office towers, or hotels. They may have 25 to 35 stories.
How Many Stories is 50 Feet?
A 50-foot-tall building typically has 4 to 5 stories. Buildings at this height are usually categorized as low-rise. They are commonly used for:
- Smaller apartment complexes
- Office spaces
- Retail shops.
Residential buildings at this height can house multiple families in a small footprint, while commercial buildings may host shops, medical clinics, or small office spaces.
How Many Stories is 700 Feet?
A 700-foot-tall building has about 50 to 70 stories. If the building is residential, it would have 70 stories. In comparison, commercial buildings would typically have between 47 and 58 stories.
Buildings of this height are categorized as tall skyscrapers. They are often used for office spaces, luxury residential apartments, or high-end hotels. Examples of buildings in this height range include iconic towers like the Seattle Space Needle.
How High is 32 Stories in Feet?
A 32-story building is generally between 320 and 480 feet tall. Buildings with 32 stories are considered mid-rise skyscrapers. They are commonly used for apartment complexes, hotels, or mixed-use developments. Their height is noticeable but not overwhelming.
To put this height into context, a 32-story building would be slightly shorter than Big Ben in London, which is 316 feet tall.
How Tall is 80 Stories in Feet?
An 80-story building typically measures between 800 and 1,200 feet tall. Buildings with 80 stories are considered supertall skyscrapers. They are commonly used for a mix of luxury apartments, office spaces, and hotels.
To understand 80 stories in height, consider that it is taller than most famous landmarks like the Washington Monument.
How Many Stories is 40 Feet?
A 40-foot-tall building typically has 3 to 4 stories. Such buildings are often found in suburban or smaller urban areas. They are commonly used for small apartment buildings, office spaces, or local retail centers. Their manageable height makes them easy to construct and maintain.
Final Words
Understanding how many stories is 500 feet is simple. Here’s a summary:
- A 500-foot building has 40 to 50 stories, depending on floor height.
- Residential buildings fit more stories into the same height compared to commercial ones.
- Maria City Tower, US Bank Tower, and Spring Temple are good examples of 500 foot buildings.
- Fun examples like blue whales and Olympic pools make the scale easy to understand.
Next time you see a tall building, you’ll understand its size better!
