How to Choose a Dining Table Size
Your top questions, answered—from size and layout to styles.
When you're on the hunt for a new dining room table, nailing the right dining table dimensions is an important aspect to both the aesthetics and functionality of the room. Keep reading to learn more about important dimensions and how to choose the perfect dining table size.
1. Measure Dining Table Height
Dining table height can impact both the look and functionality of your dining space. There are two common dining table heights:
- Standard height: These tables are about 30" high and are meant to be used with 18" – 23" chairs. This height is more formal and works well for families with a wide range of age and mobility.
- Counter height: At 36" high, these tables are meant to be used with chairs 24" – 26" high. These tables offer a more informal feel and are great for small spaces as the height creates a more open look.
Check out our guide How to Find the Perfect Dining Table Height & Other Important Measurements for a more in-depth look at dining table height.
Tip!
If you are buying chairs separately from the table, always check the seat height. There should be 10" – 12" between the chair seat and the bottom of the table. Read our guide Dining Chair Dimensions: How to Choose the Right Dining Chair Size to learn more about dining chair sizes.
Width and length are also crucial factors to consider when choosing a dining table size. These two aspects impact how your room looks and how comfortable eating at your table will be.
Width
The table width – which is measured along the “head” of the table – impacts how easy it is to pass food around and how many platters or serving pieces can fit along the centerline of the table. To easily pass food across the table, the width should be no more than 48". However, if you have a sideboard or buffet table, and will only have place settings on the table, you can choose a narrower table that is as small as 30" wide.
Length
For guests to eat comfortably (and avoid bumping elbows), each guest should have 24" – 26" of horizontal space. To steer clear of dings and scratches, keep 6" between chairs. If you are buying chairs separately, knowing the table's length will also help you know how many chairs can fit at your table. Just remember that the legs of the table may take away a few inches on each side.
While dining tables use standard measurements, each shape and seating capacity can feel different. Use the diagram above to visualize how dining table size, seating capacity, and shape would appear in your space.
Both width and length impact how you move around the room, so it is important to know the dimensions of your dining room while shopping.
There should be at least 36" – 48" of space between the table and the wall so guests can easily walk around the table. We also recommend having at least 48" between a table and a doorway.
Tip!
Check the "Weights & Dimensions” tab in each product description to find more information about each dining table's width, length, and height.
