Measure from the floor to the underside of your counter or bar.
Stool height calculator
Counter height.
Stool seat height
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10 to 12 inches between seat and counter (Living Spaces).
How it works
Living Spaces recommends 10 to 12 inches between the stool seat and the countertop. Counters are typically 36 inches (counter stools, 24 to 26 inch seats) and bar tops about 42 inches (bar stools, 28 to 30 inch seats).
Source: Living Spaces, "Bar Height vs. Counter Height" (updated Apr 22, 2026).