How Many Acres is a Soccer Field?
Last updated on July 15th, 2023 at 11:23 am
How many acres is a soccer field? The average soccer field is 1.86 acres or 81,000 square feet.
The average soccer field or “pitch” as it’s also referred to varies in size. A standard adult soccer field can range from 1.59 to 1.98 acres.
Let’s take a look at how the standard adult size field stacks up to the other field sizes.
Dimensions of a Soccer Field – How Many Acres?
Now that we know the average soccer field is 1.86 acres, let’s break it down to how we got to the answer.
360 ft. x 225 ft. = 81,000 square feet
1 acre = 43,560 square feet
81,000 sq. ft. / 43,560 sq. ft. = 1.86 acres
Each league has a standard or minimum that stadiums must adhere to. For example, the FIFA minimum is 1.59 acres with the largest FIFA soccer field being 2.07 acres.
Youth Soccer Field Sizes
Youth soccer fields vary by age group and league. Sometimes it depends on how much total field space is available so they can split the fields up as evenly as possible.
Here are typical field sizes ranges based on ages of boys and girls:
- U8: 0.12-0.31 acres
- U10: 0.31-0.5 acres
- U13 and above: 1.59-1.98 acres
- NCAA: 1.66-1.98
Indoor and Futsal Soccer Field Sizes
Indoor soccer fields are typically smaller than outdoor soccer fields. The size of an indoor soccer field can vary depending on the facility, but it is usually around 60 yards long and 30 yards wide. Indoor soccer fields are designed to be played on hard surfaces, such as concrete or turf. Think ice hockey rink.
Futsal is a variation of soccer that is played on a smaller field. A futsal field is typically between 25 and 42 meters long and between 16 and 25 meters wide. The smaller size of the field allows for faster-paced gameplay and more ball control. Think basketball court.
Understanding the Concept of an Acre
When it comes to measuring land, an acre is a common unit of measurement. An acre is a unit of area that is commonly used in the United States, United Kingdom, and other countries. It is defined as the area of land that can be plowed by a team of oxen in a day. Now, that’s old school!
If you are having trouble visualizing how big an acre is, think of it as a rectangle that is 66 feet wide and 660 feet long. This means that an acre is about 208 feet wide and 209 feet long.
It is important to note that the size of an acre can vary depending on the shape of the land. For example, a square plot of land that measures 208.7 feet on each side is also considered an acre.
Understanding the concept of an acre is important when it comes to understanding how big a soccer field is.
Why the Size of a Soccer Field Matters
When it comes to soccer, the size of the field matters a lot. The dimensions of a soccer field can have a significant impact on the game’s flow, tactics, and overall enjoyment. Here are a few reasons why the size of a soccer field matters:
1. Space to Play
The size of a soccer field affects the amount of space available for players to move around. A larger field means more room for players to run, dribble, and pass the ball.
This can lead to a more open and free-flowing game, with more opportunities for attacking play.
On the other hand, a smaller field can lead to a more congested game, with less space for players to operate in. The more tactical players may benefit from a smaller soccer field.
2. Fitness and Endurance
The size of a soccer field can also impact the fitness and endurance of the players.
A larger field requires more running and physical exertion, which can be challenging for players who are not in top physical condition. This can lead to fatigue and a decrease in performance as the game goes on.
Conversely, a smaller field can be less physically demanding, allowing players to conserve energy and maintain their performance for longer periods.
3. Tactics and Strategy
The size of a soccer field can also affect the tactics and strategies employed by teams.
A larger field can provide more opportunities for teams to play a possession-based style of soccer, with lots of passing and movement.
Conversely, a smaller field can lead to a more direct and physical style of play, with teams relying on long balls and set pieces to create scoring opportunities.
As you learned, the size of a soccer field is an essential factor that can impact the game’s flow, tactics, and overall enjoyment.
Different Types of Soccer Fields
In addition to different size fields, soccer pitches are made out of different types of material. For one, there’s real grass and artificial turf.
Here’s a list of grass types used on a soccer pitch:
- Kentucky Bluegrass
- The Tall Fescue
- Perennial Ryegrass
- Bermuda Grass
Field Turf is one of the best options for artificial turf. Many youth soccer club organizations are leaning more towards field turf. And, it has almost completely replaced the traditional AstroTurf.
Field turf is made from artificial material known as polyethylene blades and resembles natural grass. This sits on top of crushed rubbery material that lays underneath. It’s the material that spills out of cleats at the end of a training session.
Common Questions About Soccer Field Sizes
Not a standard soccer field. A standard soccer field is over an acre but 9v9 fields will fit inside an acre.
The FIFA minimum is 1.59 acres with the largest FIFA soccer field being 2.07 acres.
A soccer field is bigger than a football field. The length of the field is similar but a soccer field is wider.
Hey 👋 I’m Beau. A proud Dad, former coach and soccer enthusiast. I continue to love the game of soccer today the same way I did when I was 7. I created soccernovo.com to share what I know about the game as well as provide a platform so other parents can learn more about youth soccer in the U.S. 
