Efficient String Splitting in PostgreSQL: 5 Essential Functions

Splitting strings is crucial for effective text management in PostgreSQL. PostgreSQL offers built-in functions designed to handle string splits elegantly, whether you need arrays for flexible querying or rows for easy data normalization.

Detailed Guide: PostgreSQL String Splitting

1. SPLIT_PART()

Precisely extracts substrings from structured text.

SELECT SPLIT_PART('2025-12-25', '-', 3); -- '25'

2. STRING_TO_ARRAY()

Creates arrays from strings for easier data manipulation.

SELECT STRING_TO_ARRAY('apple,banana,grape', ',');
-- {'apple','banana','grape'}

3. STRING_TO_TABLE()

Turns delimited strings into rows, simplifying relational data operations.

SELECT STRING_TO_TABLE('NY|LA|SF', '|');
-- Rows: NY, LA, SF

4. REGEXP_SPLIT_TO_ARRAY()

Splits strings flexibly using regex.

SELECT REGEXP_SPLIT_TO_ARRAY('SKU123-ColorBlue', '\W+|\D+');
-- {'123','Blue'}

5. REGEXP_SPLIT_TO_TABLE()

Transforms strings into rows for detailed analysis.

SELECT REGEXP_SPLIT_TO_TABLE('Dev.to PostgreSQL guide', '\s+');
-- Rows: Dev.to, PostgreSQL, guide

FAQs

PostgreSQL string splitting functions?

SPLIT_PART(), STRING_TO_ARRAY(), STRING_TO_TABLE(), REGEXP_SPLIT_TO_ARRAY(), REGEXP_SPLIT_TO_TABLE().

Does PostgreSQL allow regex-based splitting?

Yes, via REGEXP_SPLIT_TO_ARRAY() and REGEXP_SPLIT_TO_TABLE().

Difference between STRING_TO_ARRAY() and regex splits?

STRING_TO_ARRAY() uses exact delimiters, regex functions use patterns.

Split strings into rows in PostgreSQL?

Yes, STRING_TO_TABLE() or REGEXP_SPLIT_TO_TABLE().

Conclusion

Mastering string splitting in PostgreSQL isn't just convenient—it can significantly enhance your database efficiency and simplify complex text handling. With built-in functions like SPLIT_PART(), STRING_TO_TABLE(), and regex-based approaches, managing textual data becomes intuitive. For more details, read the article 5 Ways to Split a String in PostgreSQL.