How this calculator works
Tree lighting guides use a simple rule: about 100 lights for every vertical foot of tree height. Use 50 per foot for a subtle twinkle, 150 for a full look, and 200 if you want a showpiece. Multiply by the height, then divide by the lights on each strand and round up.
Worked example: a 7½ ft tree at 100 lights per foot needs 750 lights, which is eight strands of 100 (800 lights). The same tree at 150 per foot needs 1,125 lights, which is six strands of 200 (1,200 lights).
Lights for common tree heights
Strands of 100 lights, at three levels of fullness.
| Tree height | 100 per foot | 150 per foot | 200 per foot |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4.5 ft | 450 lights (5 strands) | 675 lights (7 strands) | 900 lights (9 strands) |
| 5 ft | 500 lights (5 strands) | 750 lights (8 strands) | 1000 lights (10 strands) |
| 6 ft | 600 lights (6 strands) | 900 lights (9 strands) | 1200 lights (12 strands) |
| 6.5 ft | 650 lights (7 strands) | 975 lights (10 strands) | 1300 lights (13 strands) |
| 7 ft | 700 lights (7 strands) | 1050 lights (11 strands) | 1400 lights (14 strands) |
| 7.5 ft | 750 lights (8 strands) | 1125 lights (12 strands) | 1500 lights (15 strands) |
| 9 ft | 900 lights (9 strands) | 1350 lights (14 strands) | 1800 lights (18 strands) |
| 10 ft | 1000 lights (10 strands) | 1500 lights (15 strands) | 2000 lights (20 strands) |
| 12 ft | 1200 lights (12 strands) | 1800 lights (18 strands) | 2400 lights (24 strands) |
Tips before you buy
- Test every strand before you put it on the tree, and replace bulbs or strands that do not light. It is much harder once they are wrapped around branches.
- Start at the top and work down, or from the trunk out along each branch for a deeper look. Weave the lights in rather than wrapping them around the outside.
- Do not exceed the maximum connected strands on the label: usually 3 for older incandescent mini lights, and many more for LED.
- Choose a tree height that leaves room for the stand and topper. A tree should end at least 1 to 1½ ft below the ceiling.
- Use a timer so that lights are not left on all night, and unplug them when you are out.
Quick answers by size
Tools & materials for this project
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Frequently asked questions
How many lights do I need for a 7 foot Christmas tree?
About 700 lights at the standard 100 per foot, which is seven strands of 100. For a fuller tree at 150 per foot, about 1,050 lights.
How many lights for a 6 foot tree?
600 lights at the standard rate (six strands of 100), 900 for a fuller look, and 1,200 for a very bright tree.
How many lights for a 9 foot tree?
About 900 lights at 100 per foot (nine strands of 100), or 1,350 at 150 per foot. A tree this size is well worth using longer, 300 or 400 light strands.
Are LED Christmas lights better than incandescent?
Mostly yes. LEDs use about 80 to 90% less power, stay cool, last longer, and let you connect many more strands on one outlet. Incandescents give a classic warm glow, and are cheaper to buy.
Related calculators & guides
Estimates only. Results assume standard materials and simple shapes. Supplier products vary, and the final call on quantity, structure and safety is yours. Check your local code and your supplier's guidance before ordering.