Standard Dining Table Height: How Tall Should It Be?

Before considerations of style, furniture has to match the proportion of a room.

Knowing the standard sizes for furniture can help with this. Too short and you risk not providing enough seating space for taller individuals. Too tall, and the table begins to feel like a counter or bar.

So, how tall should a dining table be? The standard dining table height is 28 to 30 inches (71-76cm), which will suit most people. Dining chairs should be 17-19 inches (45-50cm) to match. If a different height is selected, the proportions of the chairs should be made to match.

The spacing of the dining room table within the room is also essential. We explore the different standard measurements and rules of thumb to get you started with the best proportions.

The following guidelines have been followed for decades and represent tried and true design decisions for the most comfortable and elegant dining experience.

So, What is the Standard Height of a Dining Room Table?

The standard height of a dining room table is 28 to 30 inches (71 to 76cm). Most dining room tables will come in within that range, but not always.

Some tables come shorter or taller to be in proportion with different types of furniture sets and styles. However, as a shorthand, you can expect most dining room tables you buy to be within the standard height.

The average counter height is 34 or 36 inches (86 to 91cm). This makes a counter about 6 inches taller than a dining room table on average. This proportion is ideal for the difference between sitting down for a meal and standing for preparing and serving food.

How Do you Pick the Right Size Dining Table?

1- Breathing Room

One good rule of thumb for a dining table is to have at least 3 feet of breathing room on each side. So an easy way to find the right table size for your space is to measure the length and width of the room and subtract 6 feet from each of them.

2- Consider the "weight" of the table

The second aspect to consider is the overall ‘weight’ of the table. For example, if the table is thin, light, and spacious, it will feel lighter in the room overall. On the other hand, it will feel more grounded and heavier if it is a thick, dark wood table.

Generally, you’ll want to balance a room between heavy and lighter pieces to keep the room feeling spacious.

3- Consider picking similar shapes

Finally, the shape of the table should match the shape of the room. For example, a circular or square table matches a square room, whereas an oval or rectangular table matches a rectangular room.

If the shape of the table doesn’t appropriately fill the space, the proportions will look off.

Complete Table and Chair Height Guidelines

Tables and chairs should have exact proportions when put together for optimal seating comfort. These tables represent the standard measures that provide the best proportions for most people.

- Standard table heights:

- Standard chair heights: 

Is 32 inches too high for a dining table?

It depends.

Thirty-two inches is still within a good height range for a dining table but is more suitable for taller individuals. For most people, 32 inches will feel a bit high. The height could also interfere with the best proportions for a room.

Some tables are sold at this height to provide extra room between the bottom of the table and each chair, creating a more spacious experience.

There are also tables at this height meant for taller chairs, which can match this nicely.

How Much Space is Needed for a Dining Table and Chairs?

A dining table needs space for its exact size, plus 24 inches per chair.

For example, a standard 72 inch (183cm) long dining table can comfortably seat six people by providing 24 inches of room per seat.

You can change the spacing to your preference in part by seating some people at the heads of the table. However, if you do, be sure to account for some extra length rather than width.

The dining table will need about 3 feet of breathing space from every direction to allow for seats to be pulled in and out comfortably. This space should also not include any other furniture, so you must account for any hutches, sideboards, or other furniture planned to be nestled close to the dining room table.

Summary

To provide an ergonomic and visually pleasing sense of levels, your standard dining table should be between 28 and 30 inches (71 to 76cm) in height, and dining chairs should be 17 to 19 inches (45 to 50cm) to match.

This height is optimal for seating with the ability to place your feet on the ground and your arms at the table, and also in proportion to countertops and the standard sizes of other furniture.

With the information in this guide, you’ll find it easier to make the right purchase every time. For this reason, be sure to check back here if you have any questions regarding end table dimensions and sizing.