Though the size of the average American family has decreased since the mid-twentieth century, the average bedroom size in the United States has exponentially increased, as well as the average house size in the US. Curious about what the average bedroom size is and how that compares to yours? Take a look below!
What is the Average Bedroom Size in Homes?
The average size bedroom in US homes is 132 square feet. Typically, primary or master bedrooms are larger than this, and kid rooms are smaller.
| Room Type | Average Bedroom Size in Square Feet | Typical Dimensions in Feet |
| Master Bedroom | 224 sq ft | 12×14 ft |
| Kids’ Bedroom | 100 sq ft | 10×10 ft |
| Standard Bedroom or Guest Room | 120 sq ft | 10×12 ft |
Evolution of American Homes: From Tight Quarters to Spacious Sanctuaries
Over the last three decades, American families have witnessed a remarkable shift in how they live. Despite a 25 percent decrease in the size of their households, the average size of their homes has surged by an astonishing 50 percent.
In the mid-1970s, the typical American house was a modest 1,500 square feet. Fast forward through the years, today, the average American home spans over 2,000 square feet.
In the past, it was common for family members to share bedrooms and, more notably, bathrooms. Fast forward to the present, it’s no longer unusual for each family member to have their own bedroom.
And in some cases, even their private bathroom. The American home has evolved from cozy confines to luxurious sanctuaries.
Influences on US Home Size
The increase in the amount and size of closets (mostly walk-in closets) and bathrooms in master bedroom suites alone can partially explain it. It’s one reason there has been such a significant increase in the average size of a US home in the past decades.
American Master Bedroom: Unveiling Its Average Bedroom Size
The main bedroom in the house is the largest of all the bedrooms. It’s also frequently known as the primary bedroom. The average master bedroom size takes up about 11.3 percent of the average home in the United States.
A master bedroom average bedroom size in newly constructed homes is about 14 feet by 16 feet, or 224 square feet (20.8 square meters or 32,256 square inches). Typically, the primary bedroom is rectangular or square. Still, we can also find an average bedroom size in various shapes.
Today’s master bedroom is more often a master suite, complete with a large or walk-in closet and full bathroom. Often, master bedrooms have walk-in closets that can measure about 150 square feet.
Bedroom Dimensions: The Key Influence on US Home Sizes
When discussing average bedroom dimensions, there’s a concept that an average master bedroom size should be large enough to house a king-size bed with a frame of 10 feet by 12 feet. Also, people usually keep other furniture pieces in their bedrooms and need to be able to move around their bedrooms quickly.
The standard bedroom size in feet of a master bedroom is 5 feet x 6.67 feet. The bedroom size measurements are smaller than this for a queen bedroom size or a guest room.
An average bedroom size with a smaller bed, like a queen bed, would need to be usually smaller. It’s compared to a bedroom size with a larger bed, like a king-size bed. Still, we can use a smaller bed in a master bedroom that fits a larger size.
Impact of Bedroom Door Sizes
When it comes to the average bedroom size of doors, there is an established standard height. However, there’s not one standard width. Instead, there are several different standard door width sizes for bedrooms.
- Standard height of a bedroom door: 80 inches or 6 feet 8 inches
- The width of a door can be anywhere from 24, 28, 32, to 36 inches.
Typical Size of Kids’ Bedrooms in the US
Children’s bedrooms are often smaller than the main bedroom. They’re also often considered a house’s standard-sized or average bedroom size. It’s noteworthy that a house usually has more than one standard-sized bedroom.
Kids’ average bedroom size is 100 square feet (or 10 x 10 feet). It makes sense that their rooms are a bit smaller since the furniture isn’t as big, and you’re likely to have a twin or full bed in them.
Standard Rooms
Usually, a standard room or average bedroom size shares a set of common characteristics. For example, they usually have only one window and a much smaller closet than the main bedroom. This closet is also not typically a walk-in closet; it’s a reach-in closet.
It’s common to see that we convert a room like this into a guest room. Sometimes, we convert it into a gym or a study room. For instance, the average guest bedroom size is about 17% of the overall house size.
Bedroom Code
According to building code requirements, a bedroom must have minimum dimensions of at least 7 feet by 10 feet. So, any room, regardless if it’s a guest room, smaller than this minimum bedroom size is not up to code.
Regarding other aspects, the average bedroom size measurements tend to be the same regardless of whether it’s an average master bedroom size or a standard or minimum bedroom size. Like a master bedroom, the average ceiling height for a kids’ bedroom is 9 feet (2.7432 meters).
For an average master bedroom size to be up to code, the ceiling height must be at least 7 foot 6 inches high. Windows and doors follow the same trends as master bedrooms, though they also tend toward the smaller side.
Small Bedroom Problems and Solutions
Regarding bedrooms, whatever kind of bedroom it is, it’s important to remember one essential element- the bedroom layout. It can make a space more or less inhabitable.
There shouldn’t be too much furniture in a bedroom. We must be able to open and close any furniture properly without moving it every time. Additionally, we should be able to move around the bedroom without bumping into things.
Here are a few ways to save space in a smaller or minimum bedroom size. These will also make the bedrooms feel larger.
In the Master Bedroom
Consider smaller bedroom furniture pieces in an average master bedroom size. Also, pick bedroom furniture that serves more than one purpose. For example, consider a storage bench or chest instead of placing a bench at the end of the bed. We can use it both for seating and storage.
Also, try to declutter the master bedroom. It includes picking clothes up from the floor and making the bed. A tidy room makes average bedroom sizes seem so much larger!
In a Kids’ Bedroom
Use vertical space. We can do it in many different ways. Below are two examples:
- For average bedroom sizes where children had to share, consider adding bunk beds to the kids’ bedroom! It enables putting two beds within the floor space. Plus, kids love bunk beds!
- Add vertical space by adding shelves, whether wall-mounted or in the form of a bookcase. Using vertical space allows more storage for average bedroom sizes. Also, it leaves more room on the floor – for playtime!
Bed Dimensions Chart
We’d be remiss not to include bed sizes when writing about the average bedroom size for different types of bedrooms. So, here are them:
- Crib dimensions: 28″ W x 52″ L (some cribs are more oversized, though).
- Twin bed dimensions: 38″ W x 75″ L
- Twin XL bed dimensions: 38″ W x 80″ L
- Full/Double bed dimensions: 54″ W x 74″ L
- Double XL bed dimensions: 54″ W x 80″ L
- Queen Size bed dimensions: 60″ W x 80″ L
- King bed dimensions: 76″ W x 80″ L
- California King bed dimensions: 72″ W x 84″ L
- Wyoming King bed dimensions: 84″ W x 84″ L
- Alaska King bed dimensions: 108″ W x 108″ L
Pricing Quotes From Architects
Brett Hand Architect, P.C
We connected with architect Brett Hand, and he told us his hourly rate was $125. Also, the time it would take to build a master or standard-size room varies. He said it would depend on the materials used.
Additionally, Brett said building rooms can vary from $3,000 to $30,000. Meanwhile, adding a new bedroom to a house ranges from $50 to $250 per square foot. Anyone interested in learning more about Brett or in a new room or bedroom renovation, feel free to contact him.
The material used for the room, along with its finishes, can also increase the cost of a room addition quickly. Also, hiring an architect to design a room addition would be an additional cost of anywhere from $875-$2,500. Still, it’s best to hire an architect for a room renovation or addition.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Big Is a 12×12 Bedroom?
A 12×12 bedroom is typically 144 square feet in size. This is an average sized bedroom, often found in apartments or smaller homes. It may be suitable for a single occupant or used as a guest room.
What Is the Ideal Size for a Master Bedroom?
The ideal size for a main bedroom can vary based on personal preferences. A standard guideline is around 250 to 350 square feet. This size provides enough space for a comfortable sleeping area, storage, and possibly a seating or dressing area.
What Bedroom Size Do I Need for a King Bed?
A bedroom for a king-size bed should be at least 12×12 feet or 144 square feet in size. It allows ample space for the bed, nightstands, and some additional furniture or walking space around the bed. More oversized bedrooms may offer more comfort and flexibility in arranging furniture.
Conclusion
The average bedroom size has grown significantly in the ever-changing landscape of American homes. We can attribute this transformation to various factors, including the increasing popularity of master suites with spacious closets and private bathrooms. In this article, we’ve gained a deeper appreciation for the evolution of living spaces in the US.
