Bar Stool

1. Measure Your Counter or Table Height

The first step in choosing the right bar stool height is measuring the height of your counter, bar, or table. Use a tape measure to get the distance from the floor to the top of the surface.

Standard Counter Height: 34 to 39 inches from the floor.

Bar Height: 40 to 42 inches from the floor.

Extra-Tall Bar Height: 43 inches or higher, typically used for pub tables or high counters.

2. Consider the Ideal Seat-to-Counter Distance

To ensure comfort, there should be a gap of 9 to 13 inches between the top of the seat and the underside of the counter or table. This allows for legroom and ease of movement when seated.

Based on this guideline, here are the standard stool heights to pair with specific counter heights:

Counter-Height Stools (24–26 inches): These are ideal for counters that are 34–39 inches high, such as most kitchen islands or breakfast bars.

Bar-Height Stools (28–30 inches): These stools work well with standard bar counters or high tables that are 40–42 inches in height.

Extra-Tall Stools (33–36 inches): For surfaces that are 43 inches or higher, such as pub tables or extra-tall bars, these taller stools are needed.

3. Adjustable-Height Stools for Flexibility

If you're unsure about the height or if your seating area is used for multiple purposes, adjustable-height stools are a great option. These stools can typically range from counter to bar height, offering flexibility to fit different spaces.