How do I compare map locations

[kvillard]

Hi,

I have to write an application that allows you to find people in your area. How do compare Bob's Address to Doug's Address to find out if they are in a certian area (within so many miles or whatever) - I'm sure this can be done somehow - Can it be done with Google Maps API or someother geo api that's out there?

I'm at a loss as to how I should proceed with this one

thanks folks for your advice

Kent

[ranbla]

Check out this web service: Address Distance Calculator

[rob1951]

Some of the free mapping services will convert an address to latitude and longitude.

Given those two for a given address pair you can use geometry to work out the distance between. If in doubt translate the Javascript used on this page to PHP:
http://www.wcrl.ars.usda.gov/cec/java/lat-long.htm