Free Tool

Canning Altitude Calculator

Get the correct processing time or pressure for your elevation — no chart-squinting required.

Every tested canning recipe is written for sea level. If you’re above 1,000 feet, both the processing time (boiling water canning) and the pressure (pressure canning) need to be adjusted — otherwise the jar may not reach a safe temperature, even if the timer says it’s done. Enter your elevation below to get the correct number for your kitchen.

Safety Note This tool covers standard altitude adjustments per USDA guidelines. It doesn’t replace a tested recipe — always start from a source like the USDA Complete Guide to Home Canning or your county extension office, then use this to adjust for your elevation.

Why Altitude Matters

Water boils at a lower temperature the higher up you are — at 5,000 feet, water boils at about 203°F instead of 212°F. That lower temperature means bacteria and enzymes aren’t destroyed as quickly, so both your processing time (water bath) and pressure (pressure canning) need to increase to compensate.

I keep this exact chart taped inside my pantry door — not because the numbers are hard to remember, but because canning is the one place in the kitchen where “close enough” isn’t a real option.

Want the full breakdown, printable and framed for your kitchen wall?

Read the full altitude chart post →