Highlights
Bar-height countertops are 40 to 42 inches from the floor and are higher than counter-height countertops.
Bar-height countertops are often installed as an elevated ledge attached to a lower countertop.
Counter-height countertops sit 36 inches above the floor and are the industry standard.
Bar-height countertops add a ledge to break up the space and add a second surface, but can cost more and are harder to access.
Counter-height countertops provide a continuous surface for working, preparing, or entertaining, but aren’t necessarily comfortable for everyone.
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When designing a kitchen, there are a lot of options, and countertop height is no exception. While countertop height can have a visual impact on the kitchen, it can also affect the overall functionality of the space. This is why it’s helpful to weigh the pros and cons of each countertop height to determine your needs, and find the best size for your kitchen. While there are different countertop heights, this guide will focus specifically on the benefits of bar-height vs counter-height countertops.
What Are Bar-Height Countertops?
Photo: Iriana Shiyan / Adobe Stock
Bar-height countertops, also known as pub-height countertops, are reminiscent of the high-tops or pub tables found in restaurants or bars. Bar-height counters sit around 40 to 42 inches from the floor to the countertop, and can fit a 30 inch chair or stool underneath.
When installing a kitchen island or peninsula, it’s common to elevate a portion of the countertop to bar-height, rather than leave it as a continuous workspace. Bar-height countertops are often the preferred choice for open-concept living spaces, as the elevation can create visual divide and conceal visible clutter. Keep in mind that adding an elevated ledge is usually a custom option, so this feature can cost more than keeping the countertops one uniform height.
Bar-Height Countertops Pros and Cons
Bar-Height Seating Pros
Acts as a room divider to create separation between areas
Can stand while you eat
Guests can talk to the chef while they’re cooking
Creates a socialization area
Casual eating setting
Blocks the view of any clutter around the kitchen counter-height workspace
Bar-Height Setting Cons
Elevated ledge can become a drop-zone for clutter
Cuts into the depth of the standard-height countertop, creating less room to spread out
Bar-height stools are tall and can be difficult for children or elderly guests to access
Two separate countertops will need to be cleaned
Can cost more if the bar height ledge is a custom option
What Are Counter-Height Countertops?
Photo: Iriana Shiyan / Adobe Stock
Kitchen counter-height countertops, also known as standard-height, measure at 36 inches above the floor. Standard base cabinets typically are 34.5 inches high, and countertops are typically half an inch thick, totaling 36 inches. For the majority of the tasks that are performed in the kitchen, 36 inches is the optimal height in terms of ergonomics and functionality.
While this standard was designed with the average person’s height in mind (5′3″ to 5′8″inches), this type of countertop may not be as comfortable for those that fall outside of this range. Using this type of countertop creates one continuous surface, and many prefer this expansive option when working or setting up a large spread for hosting gatherings and events.
Counter-Height Countertops Pros and Cons
Counter-Height Pros
Continuous surface promotes visibility and spaciousness within the room
Ergonomically the best height for most kitchen tasks
Uninterrupted countertop creates a large workspace, perfect for spreading out when preparing or entertaining
The top of the seat for counter-height dining chairs (or counter-height stools) is more accessible than bar-height stools for children or elderly guests to sit at
Counter-Height Cons
Industry standard height of 36 inches isn’t comfortable for everyone, especially those with mobility issues or those that are taller or shorter than average
No customization is needed
No visual break is provided, so clutter or sink is always within view
Bar-Height vs. Counter-Height Tables and Chairs
Keep in mind the differences between the seating options for bar-height vs. counter-height countertops. Keeping furniture height in mind is helpful when planning your kitchen design, especially if your dining set is in the same area as your countertops, to promote cohesiveness within the space. What’s more, you’ll want to understand the seat height associated with the countertop to ensure the seating will work for everyone in the household.
From swivel chairs to barstools to backless stools with footrests, there are different styles of seating to choose from depending on the height and aesthetic you’re looking for. As a general guide, here are the differences between counter-height vs bar-height to pick the right height dining set for your living space.
Counter-Height Tables: 34 to 36 inches
Counter-Height Chairs and Stools: 24 to 27 inches
Bar-Height Tables: 40 to 42 inches
Bar-Height Chairs and Stools: 28 to 33 inches
Bar-Height vs. Counter-Height Countertops
Price
Bar-height countertops are usually an added customization when creating an island or peninsula, so they tend to cost more than counter height.
Winner: Counter-height countertops
Versatility
Because counter-height is the industry standard, they can be found in all materials, colors, and price ranges.
Winner: Counter-height countertops
Appearance
Both bar-height and counter-height countertops can be aesthetically pleasing, and the best visual option for your kitchen depends on your style preferences. Keep in mind, however, that many opt for counter-height for smaller spaces and bar-height in bigger areas.
Winner: Tie
Best for Open-Concept Kitchen Layout
Bar-height counters can break up an open-concept room, and can hide clutter behind the ledge, which is why they’re the preferred choice for this type of kitchen layout.
Winner: Bar-height countertops
Accessibility
Counter-height seating is optimal for children, elders, or those with mobility restrictions. Yet, bar height seating may be more comfortable for those that are taller than average. Keep in mind the needs of the members of your household and guests that frequent your home when determining the right height.
Winner: Tie