Why is BigDataCloud's Reverse Geocoding API Free?

Reverse Geocoding transforms geographic coordinates into familiar location names or details, making it an essential tool for countless online services that depend on location-based insights. While providers like Google charge up to $0.005 per request and impose usage limits, BigDataCloud offers a game-changing alternative.

Our Client-Side Reverse Geocoding API is 100% free—no hidden fees, no rate limits, and no volume caps. Sounds too good to be true? One question we hear often is: “What’s the catch?”

Here’s the Simple Answer

When you use our service, you provide us with the most accurate geographic coordinates from your users’ devices. In return, we detect the IP address in use. This combination of coordinates and IP addresses is immensely valuable to us. It fuels our unique Daily IP Geolocation Accuracy Report, which reflects real-time comparisons of various IP Geolocation databases. This data also helps refine and enhance our IP Geolocation service algorithm, ensuring greater accuracy.

What sets us apart is our commitment to privacy. We’ve designed this service to function without requiring an API key, prioritising user anonymity. An IP address or GPS location only qualifies as Personally Identifiable Information (PII) when linked to a specific individual or organisation. Since our system does not access such identifying details, the data we receive is entirely anonymous. To be clear: we have no interest in identifying the individuals behind the devices that use our service.

The Deal

The arrangement is straightforward: you provide us with anonymous IP geolocation data, and in return, we deliver high-quality reverse geocoding—for free. It’s a mutually beneficial exchange.

Many ask how long this free offering will last. Our promise is simple: as long as you supply accurate, up-to-date coordinates, we’ll continue providing this service at no cost for as long as we’re in business. No restrictions, no surprises—just reliable, free reverse geocoding.

Enjoy a seamless, no-compromise solution for your geocoding needs.