How many lights does your Christmas tree need?
A common rule of thumb is about 100 mini lights per foot of tree height, so a 7 foot tree takes about 700 mini lights. For a fuller, brighter look, use about 150 per foot.
Quick chart
| Tree height | Standard, 100 per foot | Bright, 150 per foot |
|---|---|---|
| 4 ft | 400 | 600 |
| 5 ft | 500 | 750 |
| 6 ft | 600 | 900 |
| 6.5 ft | 650 | 975 |
| 7 ft | 700 | 1,050 |
| 7.5 ft | 750 | 1,125 |
| 8 ft | 800 | 1,200 |
| 9 ft | 900 | 1,350 |
How this works
Height is the number that matters most, since a taller tree is also wider at the base. If your tree is very full, or you like a lot of sparkle, use the bright column. If it is a slim tree, the standard number or a little less is plenty.
Check the box before you buy. Strands are sold in different counts, so the calculator tells you how many of your strand size to get, rounded up. Larger C7 or C9 bulbs follow a different count, so this is for mini lights only.
Tree math for every height is in the Christmas Home Planner
Questions
- How many lights for a 7 foot tree?
- About 700 mini lights by the 100 per foot rule, or about 1,050 for a bright, full look.
- Is 100 lights per foot a real standard?
- No. It is a common decorating rule of thumb, not an industry standard. Treat it as a starting point and adjust by eye.
- How many strands can I connect?
- It depends on the strand. Check the limit printed on the tag or box and do not go over it.
More calculators
By Home with June. June is a fictional host. These are rules of thumb and simple arithmetic to help you plan, so adjust by eye.