OpenStreetMap
APIFree open geocoding and mapping API for geographical data access
Overview
OpenStreetMap API offers access to crowdsourced geographical data via endpoints like Nominatim (geocoding/reverse geocoding), Overpass API (custom map data queries), and Tile API (map tiles). It supports JSON, XML, and GeoJSON formats. Use cases include building location-based apps, geocoding addresses to coordinates, retrieving points of interest (POIs), generating custom maps, and integrating navigation data. Built on open, community-contributed data, it’s ideal for projects needing free, unrestricted geographical information without proprietary locks.
Example Integration (JavaScript)
fetch('http://wiki.openstreetmap.org/wiki/API')
.then(res => res.json())
.then(data => console.log(data))
.catch(err => console.error(err)); Key Features
- RESTful endpoints
- JSON/XML/GeoJSON support
- No API key (basic use)
- Open crowdsourced data
- Multiple APIs (Nominatim, Overpass)
- Map tile access
Frequently Asked Questions
? Is OpenStreetMap free to use?
Yes, it’s free for non-commercial and commercial use, provided you attribute OpenStreetMap contributors as required.
? Does it require an API Key?
Most endpoints like Nominatim don’t need an API key for basic usage, but high-volume requests may face rate limits or need special permissions.
? What is the response format?
Formats vary by endpoint—Nominatim uses JSON/XML/GeoJSON, Overpass uses JSON/XML, and Tile API delivers image tiles. JSON is the most common for geocoding queries.
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People Also Ask about OpenStreetMap
Tool Info
Pros
- ⊕ Free for all use cases (with attribution)
- ⊕ Community-updated global data
- ⊕ Diverse data formats
- ⊕ Customizable map queries
- ⊕ No proprietary licensing fees
Cons
- ⊖ Rate-limited to prevent abuse
- ⊖ No official SLA
- ⊖ Crowdsourced data inconsistencies
- ⊖ Requires attribution
- ⊖ Limited advanced routing