Abstract: Based on 38 flat dilatometer tests（DMT） and nearly 4000 p ieces of data from the tests in Shanghai,the ranges of the horizontal coeffici ent of subgr ade reaction, K_h ,in different soft soil layers and the relationships of K_h with depth are particularly analysed. And their variation are also summaried. In addition, the calculated K_h are compared with the corres ponding va lues in the code.These conclusions can be used in the designs of ex cavation, tunnel and lateral-load piles in Shanghai.