Typical dimensions
| Typical height | 29 to 30 in |
|---|---|
| Ergonomic range | 28 to 30 in |
| Leg clearance (OSHA) | 20 to 28 in high |
| Monitor distance (OSHA) | At least 20 in |
Tips
- OSHA notes that desks that are too high or too low can lead to awkward postures, and suggests height-adjustable desks.
- Writing desks are sometimes a little taller, around 31 inches.
How to measure before you buy
- Measure the space where the piece will go, then mark its footprint on the floor with painter's tape.
- Check clearance around it: published guides suggest 30 to 36 inches for main walkways.
- Measure every doorway, hallway and stair on the way in at its narrowest point, and compare with the piece's height, depth and diagonal depth. The will it fit calculator does the comparison.
- Check the maker's listed dimensions for the exact model: typical ranges are a guide, not a guarantee.
Other furniture sizes at a glance
Standard sofa dimensions A standard three-seat sofa is typically 72 to 96 inches long, 30 to 38 inches deep and 30 to 36 inches tall, with a seat 17 to 19 inches off the floor.
Loveseat dimensions A loveseat is typically 52 to 72 inches long, 30 to 38 inches deep and 30 to 36 inches tall.
Sectional sofa sizes An L-shaped sectional is typically 90 to 120 inches or more along its long side, and a U-shaped sectional 120 to 160 inches or more. Chaise ends run 90 to 110 inches deep.
Coffee table size and height Wayfair suggests a coffee table about two-thirds the length of your sofa, the same height as the sofa cushions or 1 to 2 inches lower, placed 12 to 18 inches from the sofa.
Dining table sizes and seating A standard dining table is 28 to 30 inches tall. Living Spaces says tables of 60 inches and under seat up to four, up to 80 inches seat six, and 90 inches and above seat eight or more. Allow at least 3 feet around the table.
Bar stool height For a bar-height counter of about 42 inches, choose a bar stool with a seat of about 28 to 30 inches. Living Spaces advises 10 to 12 inches between the seat and the counter.
Counter stool height Standard kitchen counters and islands are typically 36 inches tall. Counter stools have seats of about 24 to 26 inches, leaving the 10 to 12 inches of space Living Spaces recommends.
Patio table size guide Trex Outdoor Furniture recommends two feet of shoulder room per guest and at least three feet of clearance on all sides of an outdoor dining table. A 36 x 72 inch rectangle, its most popular size, seats six.
Frequently asked questions
What is the standard size of a desk?
Most desks are 29 to 30 inches tall, according to Bassett Furniture. OSHA advises leg clearance under the desktop of generally 20 to 28 inches.
Sources: Bassett Furniture, "Typical Desk Height" (updated Feb 3, 2023); OSHA, Computer Workstations eTool: Desks. Checked October 17, 2026. How we check.