Excel formula: Count visible rows in a filtered list

Generic formula

=SUBTOTAL(3,range)

Summary

To count the number of visible rows in a filtered list, you can use the SUBTOTAL function, which automatically ignores rows that are hidden by a filter. In the example shown, the formula in cell C2 is:

=SUBTOTAL(3,B5:B14)

Explanation

The SUBTOTAL function can perform calculations like COUNT, SUM, MAX, MIN, and more. What makes SUBTOTAL especially interesting and useful is that it automatically ignores items that are not visible in a filtered list or table. This makes it ideal for showing how many items are visible in a list, the subtotal of visible rows, etc.

Following the example in the image above, to count the number of non-blank rows visible when a filter is active, use:

=SUBTOTAL(3,B5:B14)

If you are hiding rows manually (i.e. right-click, Hide), and not using the auto-filter, use this version instead:

=SUBTOTAL(103,B5:B14))

The first argument controls the type of operation SUBTOTAL will perform. For a full list, see the table here.

Author

Dave Bruns

Related functions

Excel SUBTOTAL Function

The Excel SUBTOTAL function returns an aggregate result for supplied values. SUBTOTAL can return a SUM, AVERAGE, COUNT, MAX, and others (see table below), and SUBTOTAL function can either include or exclude values in hidden rows.

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