How Can I Change the Current Working Directory in Python?

Python Equivalent of Shell 'cd' Command

In the Unix shell, the 'cd' command allows users to navigate the file system by changing the current working directory. In Python, there is a similar way to achieve this using the 'os' module.

Changing the Current Working Directory

To change the current working directory in Python, you can use the following code:

import os

os.chdir(path)

where 'path' is the new directory you want to set as the current working directory.

Cautions and Alternatives

Be cautious when changing the current working directory, as this can lead to unexpected changes in your code. Additionally, it's not recommended to catch exceptions like WindowsError or OSError after changing directory, as this could result in unintended changes.

If you are using Python 3.11 or later, you can utilize a context manager to ensure you return to the original working directory once you are finished:

import os

with os.chdir(path):
    # Code

For older versions of Python, you can create your own context manager as shown in Brian M. Hunt's answer.

Note

Changing the current working directory in a subprocess does not affect the current working directory of the parent process. This applies to the Python interpreter as well. You cannot use os.chdir() to modify the CWD of the calling process.

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