Statistics

Variance Calculator

Sample and population variance.

Enter your values

ⓘ Live results

Results
Sample variance
4.666667
Population variance
4
Sample standard deviation
2.160247
Mean
6
Count
7
Coefficient of variation
36%

Quick answer

Variance is the average squared deviation from the mean; sample variance divides by n−1 to stay unbiased.

s² = Σ(x − x̄)² / (n − 1)

How to use the Variance Calculator

  1. 1Paste your values separated by commas.
  2. 2Use sample variance for a subset, population for the whole group.
  3. 3Read the standard deviation too.

Worked example

Using the values the calculator loads with:

Inputs

  • Data values4, 8, 6, 5, 3, 9, 7

Results

  • Sample variance4.666667
  • Population variance4
  • Sample standard deviation2.160247
  • Mean6
  • Count7
  • Coefficient of variation36%

Frequently asked questions

Why divide by n−1?

It corrects the downward bias when estimating population variance from a sample.

What are the units?

Squared units — take the square root for standard deviation in original units.

About this calculator

Results are estimates for general information. For medical, legal, structural or financial decisions, confirm with a qualified professional.