attr

.attr — Attribute File

Esri · 1990s

Developer

Esri

Key Features

Stores descriptive data for geographic features.
Works alongside spatial data files (e.g., shapefiles).
Primarily used by Esri's ArcGIS software suite.
Contains non-spatial information like names, IDs, and measurements.

Best For

Storing tabular data linked to geographic features.
Detailed record-keeping for GIS map elements.
Analysis and querying of geographic feature characteristics.

Less Ideal For

Storing raw geometric or spatial data (use .shp, .gdb instead).
General data storage outside of a GIS context.
Interoperability with non-Esri GIS software without conversion.
Simple spreadsheet-like data that doesn't require geographic linkage.

Common Use Cases

Associating names and addresses with property parcel data.
Storing population demographics for census tracts.
Recording sensor readings or environmental measurements for specific locations.
Managing identification codes and status for infrastructure assets like roads or pipes.

How to Open It

Open the associated shapefile or geodatabase in ArcGIS Pro or ArcMap.
Access the attribute table associated with the geographic features.
Export the attribute data to a more common format like CSV or Excel if needed.
Utilize GIS software that can read Esri's attribute table formats.

What is a .attr file?

An .attr file is primarily associated with GIS (Geographic Information System) software, most notably Esri's ArcGIS. It stores attribute data related to geographic features. This means it holds information like names, IDs, measurements, or descriptions for points, lines, or polygons on a map. These files work in conjunction with shapefiles or geodatabases to provide a complete picture of geographic information. Without the associated geometric data, the .attr file alone is just a collection of raw data points.

Programs That Open .attr Files

Platform	Program
Windows	ArcGIS Pro	Paid	Official
	ArcMap	Paid	Official
macOS	ArcGIS Pro	Paid	Official

How to Convert .attr Files

Format	Method
.CSV	ArcGIS Pro, ArcMap
.XLSX	ArcGIS Pro, ArcMap

Common Problems with .attr Files

⚠️ The .attr file won't open on its own.

This file format is typically not standalone. It requires associated GIS data files (like .shp or .dbf) and GIS software like ArcGIS to be opened and interpreted correctly.

⚠️ Attribute data seems missing or incomplete.

Ensure all related files from the original GIS dataset (e.g., .shp, .dbf, .shx) are present in the same directory as the .attr file. Check within the GIS software for any data corruption or missing links.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an .attr file?▼

An .attr file is a component of Esri's GIS data formats, storing non-spatial attribute information for geographic features. It's often found alongside shapefiles.

Can I open an .attr file with Microsoft Excel?▼

Not directly. You would typically need to open it within GIS software (like ArcGIS) and then export the attribute data to a format like CSV or XLSX that Excel can read.

Is .attr a standalone file format?▼

No, it is generally not a standalone format. It relies on other files (like .shp, .dbf, .shx) to define the geographic features to which its attributes apply.

Technical Details

The .attr file is a proprietary binary format used by Esri's ArcGIS software. It typically accompanies other GIS data files like .shp (shape) and .dbf ( dBASE) to store detailed descriptive information about map features. The exact internal structure can vary slightly depending on the ArcGIS version but it is designed for efficient querying and management of attribute tables.

Did You Know?

The .attr file stores the 'description' or 'characteristics' of map features, complementing the actual 'location' stored in other files.

While often associated with shapefiles, .attr files can also be part of geodatabase structures in Esri software.

Security Information

As a proprietary binary format used within professional GIS software, .attr files themselves are generally considered safe. However, as with any file, exercise caution when downloading from untrusted sources, as they could potentially be bundled with malicious software.