Bar Stool Height Guide
Not sure which bar stool height is right for your space? Let this guide help you decide
Laura Neumann
February 26, 2018
Let’s cut straight to the chase — the simplest method for choosing the right bar stool height is to have about 10 to 12 inches between the stool seat and the bottom of the counter or table. For example, bar stool height for a 36-inch counter should be 24 to 26 inches.
Tip: Bar stool seat height is always measured from the floor to the top of the stool’s seat — arms and backs are not included in this measurement.
Read further to learn your bar stool height basics and find the size that’s perfect for your needs.
Tip: Bar stool seat height is always measured from the floor to the top of the stool’s seat — arms and backs are not included in this measurement.
Read further to learn your bar stool height basics and find the size that’s perfect for your needs.
Bar Stool Dimensions
- 28 to 32 inches from floor to seat
Standard bar stools, also called bar or pub height, are ideal if you have a raised breakfast bar in your kitchen, a pub table or a home bar that needs a seat or three to pull up and have a drink.
Shop bar-height stools
Counter Stool Height
- 24 to 27 inches from floor to seat
Counter stools are perfect for seating on the back side of an island or peninsula. Since 36 inches is the most common countertop height, most stools labeled “counter height” should fit.
Shop counter-height stools
Extra Tall Stool Height
- 33 to 36 inches from floor to seat
If you’ve got a tall breakfast bar or bar top, you’ll definitely need those few extra inches that extra tall bar stools provide, otherwise you might feel like a child sitting at a giant’s table.
Shop extra tall bar stools
Short or Table Stool Height
- 23 inches or less from floor to seat
Best for: Standard height dining tables
If you’re looking for something to replace your old dining chairs, try short bar stools. Their small stature let’s them easily slide under standard 28- to 30-inch dining tables, and a backless version would be easy to get in and out of.
Shop table-height bar stools
Adjustable Stool Height
If you can’t decide exactly how tall you want your bar stools to be, opt for a set that is adjustable. You might even be able to use them in multiple locations!
Shop adjustable-height bar stools
Now that you’re an expert on various bar stool heights and their best uses, you can focus on the fun part — choosing the right style, finish and material to suit your space.
Need a quick refresher before you hit the sales?
Standard Height: 28 to 32 inches
Counter Height: 24 to 27 inches
Extra Tall Height: 33 to 36 inches
Short/Table Height: 23 inches or less
Shop bar stools of every height on Houzz
Shop adjustable-height bar stools
Now that you’re an expert on various bar stool heights and their best uses, you can focus on the fun part — choosing the right style, finish and material to suit your space.
Need a quick refresher before you hit the sales?
Standard Height: 28 to 32 inches
Counter Height: 24 to 27 inches
Extra Tall Height: 33 to 36 inches
Short/Table Height: 23 inches or less
Shop bar stools of every height on Houzz
