Spearman Correlation Calculator
Rank correlation for ordinal or non-linear data.
Enter your values
Enter the x values you are working with.
Enter the y values you are working with.
Results update instantly as you type — no submit needed. Your values are remembered on this device, and the shareable link reopens the calculator with exactly these numbers.
- Spearman's rho
- 0.9
- Strength
- Very strong
- Pearson's r for comparison
- 0.9055
- X ranks
- 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
- Y ranks
- 1, 2, 4, 3, 5
- Pairs
- 5
Quick answer
Spearman's rho is Pearson's correlation applied to ranks, so it captures any monotonic relationship, even a curved one.
ρ = 1 − 6Σd² ÷ (n(n² − 1))
At a glance
| What it does | Rank correlation for ordinal or non-linear data. |
|---|---|
| Category | Statistics |
| Inputs needed | X values, Y values |
| Main output | Spearman's rho |
| Formula | ρ = 1 − 6Σd² ÷ (n(n² − 1)) |
| Cost | Free — no sign-up, no download |
How to use the Spearman Correlation Calculator
- 1Enter both variables as paired lists in the same order.
- 2Read rho — ties are handled with average ranks.
- 3Compare with Pearson's r: a big gap suggests a curved relationship or outliers.
Inputs explained
- X values
- Enter the x values you are working with.
- Y values
- Enter the y values you are working with.
Worked example
Using the values the calculator loads with:
Inputs
- X values10, 20, 30, 40, 50
- Y values12, 15, 40, 38, 90
Results
- Spearman's rho0.9
- StrengthVery strong
- Pearson's r for comparison0.9055
- X ranks1, 2, 3, 4, 5
- Y ranks1, 2, 4, 3, 5
- Pairs5
Frequently asked questions
When should I prefer Spearman?
With ordinal data, small samples, outliers, or a relationship that is monotonic but not straight.
Can rho be 1 when r is not?
Yes. A perfectly increasing curve gives rho = 1 while r stays below 1 because the relationship is not linear.
What do I need to enter into the Spearman Correlation Calculator?
Just 2 values: x values, y values. Every field starts with a realistic example, so you can change one number at a time and watch the result update instantly.
How does the Spearman Correlation Calculator work out the answer?
Spearman's rho is Pearson's correlation applied to ranks, so it captures any monotonic relationship, even a curved one. It applies the formula ρ = 1 − 6Σd² ÷ (n(n² − 1)) and shows the working so you can check each step by hand.
Is the Spearman Correlation Calculator free, and do I need an account?
It is completely free with no sign-up, no download and no usage limit. Everything is calculated in your browser, so the numbers you type never leave your device.
Results are estimates for general information. For medical, legal, structural or financial decisions, confirm with a qualified professional.