Extended Cyber Sale | Last chance to save on select major appliances!

Order Status

Find a Store

Help

Open concept kitchen with kitchen island and counter stools

STANDARD COUNTER HEIGHT VS. BAR HEIGHT: WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?

Whether you’re designing your dream kitchen from the ground up or giving your current space a subtle kitchen remodel, it’s essential to distinguish between counter and bar height. This differentiation applies to both surfaces and seating and understanding it can help you design the best kitchen for your lifestyle.

Though both can be used for seating and work surfaces, the height you choose can impact the aesthetics and practicality of your kitchen. Use this guide to learn more about standard counter height vs. bar height to help you make the most of your kitchen.

Four people sitting around a kitchen island

COUNTER HEIGHT VS. BAR HEIGHT MEASUREMENTS

Counter height surfaces are typically 35-40" tall, making them the ideal height for a workspace. Bar height is usually around six inches higher, measuring anywhere between 41-43" tall.

Counter height surfaces can be used as both a workstation and dining area, while bar height surfaces are often utilized as seating only. The elevated height of bar surfaces typically lends itself less to ingredient preparation compared to counter height surfaces.

Counter height and bar height stool diagrams

HOW TALL ARE COUNTER HEIGHT STOOLS VS. BAR STOOLS?

Because standard counter height is shorter than bar height, counter height stools are typically lower to the ground than bar stools. Counter stools are usually 24-27" tall, while bar stools are between 28-33" tall.

COUNTER AND BAR HEIGHT MEASUREMENTS

TYPE	MEASUREMENTS
Standard counter height	35-40″
Bar height	41-43″
Counter stools	24-27″
Bar stools	28-33″

ARE KITCHEN ISLANDS COUNTER HEIGHT OR BAR HEIGHT?

The average height of a kitchen island is around 36 inches tall, making it counter height. This is because it is usually a more comfortable height for chopping, mixing and other food prep tasks. However, some people may opt for a bar height island to enhance the visual appeal of their space if they plan to use their island primarily as seating and serving space.

Open concept kitchen with two kitchen islands

TIPS FOR CHOOSING COUNTER HEIGHT OR BAR HEIGHT SURFACES FOR YOUR KITCHEN

Whether you choose standard counter or bar height for your kitchen island ultimately hinges on personal preference and its intended use. Explore the tips below to help you choose the best option for your kitchen.

If your kitchen remodel plans include a cooktop installed in your kitchen island, counter height may be the way to go, as it sits at a practical height for cooking.
For open-concept kitchens, a bar height island can help obscure mess and clutter from view.
If you have kids or often host family parties, you may want to opt for a counter height island, as the lower seating is more accessible for little ones.
Bar height islands can serve as a room divider that still allows you to interact with your guests.
If you have limited counter space, a counter height island may be the better option, as it can provide an additional work surface, giving you more room to create and experiment with new recipes.

EXPLORE KITCHENAID® COOKTOPS FOR A KITCHEN ISLAND COUNTER

When you install a KitchenAid^® cooktop in your kitchen island, you can centralize your cooking space for a streamlined and functional look. Explore gas, electric, induction and downdraft options to find the cooktop that best matches the way you create.