JSON to CSV: Complete Conversion Guide

Converting JSON to CSV is a common task when exporting API data to spreadsheets or databases. This guide explains how to handle nested structures, arrays, and flatten complex JSON for CSV compatibility.

What is This?

JSON (JavaScript Object Notation) is a hierarchical data format with nested objects and arrays. CSV (Comma-Separated Values) is a flat, tabular format with rows and columns. Converting between them requires flattening nested structures while preserving data integrity.

How to Convert JSON to CSV

1. Paste your JSON data into the converter
2. Choose how to handle nested objects (flatten or skip)
3. Select delimiter (comma, semicolon, tab, or pipe)
4. Preview the CSV output and verify column structure
5. Download the CSV file or copy to clipboard
6. Import into Excel, Google Sheets, or database

Benefits

• Spreadsheet Compatibility: Import API data into Excel or Google Sheets
• Database Import: Load JSON data into SQL databases via CSV
• Data Analysis: Use spreadsheet formulas and pivot tables on API data
• Reporting: Create business reports from JSON API responses
• Backup: Archive JSON data in universal CSV format

Common Use Cases

API Data Export

Export data from REST APIs to spreadsheets for analysis. For example, export customer data from your CRM API, sales data from Stripe, or analytics from Google Analytics. Flatten nested objects like {user: {name: "John", email: "john@example.com"}} to user.name and user.email columns.

Database Migration

Migrate data from NoSQL databases (MongoDB, Firebase) to SQL databases. Export JSON documents to CSV, then import into MySQL, PostgreSQL, or SQL Server. Handle arrays by creating separate rows or concatenating values.

Business Reporting

Create reports from JSON logs or API data. Convert application logs, server metrics, or analytics data to CSV for stakeholder reports. Use Excel formulas, charts, and pivot tables for analysis.

Data Backup

Archive JSON configuration files or data dumps in CSV format. CSV is human-readable and compatible with all spreadsheet applications, making it ideal for long-term storage and portability.

Tips & Tricks

• Flatten nested objects: Convert {user: {name: "John"}} to user.name column
• Handle arrays carefully: Either create multiple rows or concatenate with semicolons
• Choose delimiter wisely: Use semicolon if data contains commas
• Validate output: Always preview CSV before importing to ensure structure is correct
• Consider JSON Lines: For large datasets, use newline-delimited JSON instead of CSV

Conclusion

JSON to CSV conversion is essential for integrating modern APIs with traditional spreadsheet tools. Understanding how to flatten nested structures and handle arrays ensures your data converts cleanly. Use our free JSON to CSV converter to quickly export API data, create reports, or migrate between data formats. The tool handles complex nested structures and provides multiple delimiter options for maximum compatibility.