Your go-to guide on sizing up your space for a new sofa.
With several measurements to consider, like sofa length, sofa depth, and sofa height, shopping for a new sofa online can be challenging. Don't fret – we've done all the research for you. Read this guide for a rundown of standard sofa sizes and dimensions, including a look at loveseat sizes and how to measure for a sofa delivery.
Sofa Dimensions
Standard Loveseat Sizes
How to Measure Your Space for a Sofa
Depending on the type and style, sofa sizes can vary from sofa to sofa. Below, we go over the standard sofa dimensions and where they fall on the sofa size spectrum. Take a look at the following diagram to learn what each sofa measurement refers to.
Sofa Length: Though sofas can be anywhere between 70" and 96" long, standard three-person sofas tend to be between 70" and 87" long, and the most common length is 84". If you're looking for sofas with ample seating, opt for a long sofa with a length of 87" – 100", or consider an extra-long sofa that is over 100" in length.
Sofa Depth: Standard sofa depth (from the very front to the very back) is 35", but most sofas are 32" – 40" in depth.
Sofa Height: Sofa height, or the distance from the floor to the very top of the sofa back, ranges from 26" to 36" high. Low-back sofas tend to be sleek and modern, while high-back sofas tend to lean more traditional.
Seat Depth: Sofa seat depth, or the measurement from the front edge of the seat to the back edge of the seat (or to the front of the sofa back), can be 20" – 25". Seat depths of 21" and 22" are standard for those of average height, while shorter or longer depths are better suited for shorter and taller individuals. Deep-seat sofas have seats between 28" and 35" in depth and extra-deep-seat sofas have seats over 35" deep.
Seat Height: The distance from the floor to the top of a sofa's seat cushion ranges from 15" to 20", with most sofa seats between 17" and 18" off of the floor.
Designed to seat couples, loveseats, or small sofas, are shorter in length than standard sofas. Aside from length, loveseat dimensions closely resemble sofa dimensions and are referenced the same way by manufacturers.
Loveseat Length: Loveseats tend to be 48" – 72" long. There is no standard loveseat length, but it is common to find loveseats that are toward the middle of the spectrum at 52" – 66" long.
Tip!
For a rundown of sectional sofa dimensions, check out our How to Measure for a Sectional Sofa guide!
Buying a sofa online can feel daunting, especially if you're not sure what size sofa your space can fit. Below, we outline a quick and easy strategy for measuring your space for a sofa.
Step 1: Measure Your Space
To get a feel for the sofa sizes your space can accommodate, take note of the length and width of your room. If your room is large with high ceilings, it's a good idea to look for sofas on the larger side with higher backs – the open space will complement the sofa and make it look poised and grand. If you have less space available or lower ceilings, think about purchasing a shorter sofa or a compact loveseat that won't overwhelm the room.
Also be sure to measure the widths and height of all entry doorways and hallways that your sofa will have to be carried through upon delivery – you'll want your new sofa to fit through the door!
Step 2: Tape the Area
Decide on the spot where you'd like to place your new sofa. Allow for 30" of walking room in front of the sofa to preserve the natural flow of traffic through the space. If you are planning on pairing your sofa with a coffee table, ensure there is at least 12" – 18" between the two pieces of furniture.
Using masking tape, make a rough rectangle on the floor where you'd like to place your sofa. As long as you're conscious of general sofa dimensions, precision isn't necessary here – you're looking to create a rough guideline, not the perfect outline of a sofa.
Step 3: Measure the Taped Area
Once your tape is positioned nicely and you're happy with the size of the rectangle you've created, measure its width and length.
When sofa shopping, use these measurements as the maximum sofa dimensions that will fit your space. Look for sofas that either roughly fit those dimensions or are slightly smaller. The sofa height you choose is up to you – just bear in mind that it must fit under any nearby windowsills or shelves.
Secondary measurements, like seat height and seat depth, matter more for comfort than for positioning. If members of your household are tall, choose a sofa with a taller seat height and a longer seat depth. If your household is on the shorter side, do the opposite.
Tip!
Check out our Sofa Styles for Every Space to learn all about the types of sofas available, and read our guide on common mistakes when buying a sofa to help you make a confident purchase.
