• 17" - 18"  Standard Chair Height
• 24" - 25"  Counter Stool Seat Height
• 29" - 30"  Barstool Seat Height
• 34" - 36"  Spectator Height Bar Stools

Bar Stool selection should be based both on the style of your home and furnishings as well as the size and height of your bar table or counter. Bar Stools are made in standard 24" height or 30" height in addition to shorter, taller or adjustable models.

The main consideration in bar stool height selection is the height of your table or counter from the floor to the top surface. The general rule is that you should allow 10" to 13" between the bar stool seat and the bottom of the table/counter. This amount of space is required for ample leg room.  For example, if your bar table or counter height is 42", then 30" bar stools might be most comfortable.

Additionally, consider the table or counter overhang measurement. Several inches of overhang can impede leg movement, and a slightly shorter stool may be more comfortable. 

Finally, consider the style of bar stool that will match your decor or create the look and comfort you are seeking. If the bar stool style you favor has arm rests, take into consideration the height of the arm rests. Determine whether or not the bar stool can fit under the bar table or counter, and decide if space and aesthetics are a concern if the bar stool does not slide under the bar table or counter.

Dining tables are usually 28" to 30" high. Therefore, dining chairs have seats which measure near 16" to 18" high. Short bar stools, such as 18" high often work well with dining tables.

Counter height tables are usually approximately 36" high. Bar Stools in the 24" to 26" range would likely be a comfortable fit with counter height tables.

Bar height tables are usually 40" to 42" high. Bar stools in the 28" to 30" range would likely be the best match for bar height tables.

Extra tall tables measuring 45" to 48" which were once mostly used in restaurants are now being used in homes. Bar stools which measure 32" to 34" high are often the best chose for these "spectator" height tables.

Custom homes and handcrafted furniture comes in standard as well as non-standard heights. Use the above information as a guideline, but consider your own height and preferences in making your final bar stool selection.