Global Human Settlement Layer: Global built-up area, population and settlement data. OpenStreetMap: The free, editable map of the world built by volunteers.
| Global Human Settlement Layer | OpenStreetMap | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Open Geodata Sources | Basemaps & Map Tiles |
| Pricing model | Free | Free |
| Starts at | Free | Free |
| Free tier | — | — |
| Open source | No | Yes |
| Software licence | — | ODbL (data) |
| API | — | — |
| Platforms | Data download | Web, Data download |
| Made by | European Commission JRC | OpenStreetMap Foundation |
| Commercial use | Check terms | Allowed |
| Export / print images | Check terms | Allowed |
| Offline / caching | Check terms | Allowed |
| Visits from MapTools | 2 | 10 |
| Visit | Visit |
Global Human Settlement Layer features
- Built-up surface grids
- Population grids
- Degree of Urbanisation
- Multi-epoch
OpenStreetMap features
- Global map data under ODbL
- Editable by anyone
- Data extracts and full planet downloads
- Foundation for most open map services
Data is licensed under ODbL: free to use, including commercially, with attribution. Produced works such as map images can carry any licence; derivative databases must stay under ODbL. The standard tile server at tile.openstreetmap.org follows a strict usage policy and must not be used for heavy traffic or bulk downloading.
OpenStreetMap alternativesSummary based on public information. Check each provider's current pricing and terms.