Understanding the standard height of kitchen cabinets is essential for planning a functional and aesthetically pleasing kitchen. Whether you’re remodeling or building new, this guide covers everything you need to know about cabinet dimensions.
Standard Height of Base Kitchen Cabinets
The standard height for base cabinets (the lower cabinets that sit on the floor) is 34.5 inches without the countertop. When you add a standard 1.5-inch countertop, the total height becomes 36 inches.
Why 36 Inches?
This height is designed for:
- Comfortable food preparation without excessive bending
- Ergonomic alignment with most appliances
- Standardized manufacturing for easy installation
Standard Height of Wall Cabinets
Wall cabinets (upper cabinets) typically have these standard dimensions:
| Cabinet Type | Standard Height |
|---|---|
| Standard wall cabinet | 30 or 36 inches |
| Above refrigerator cabinet | 12-15 inches |
| Above microwave cabinet | 15-18 inches |
Standard Spacing Between Countertop and Wall Cabinets
The standard distance between the countertop and bottom of wall cabinets is 18 inches. This spacing allows for:
- Clearance for small appliances
- Comfortable workspace visibility
- Standard backsplash height
Tall Cabinet Standard Heights
Tall kitchen cabinets (pantry or utility cabinets) typically come in these standard heights:
- 84 inches (7 feet) – Most common
- 90 inches (7.5 feet) – For higher ceilings
- 96 inches (8 feet) – Floor-to-ceiling option
Custom Cabinet Height Considerations
While standard heights work for most, you might consider custom sizing if:
- Your ceiling height is non-standard
- You’re particularly tall or short
- You want to accommodate special appliances
- You’re designing an accessible kitchen
FAQ About Kitchen Cabinet Height
What is the standard height for kitchen cabinets with countertop?
The standard height is 36 inches from the floor to the top of the countertop.
Can I adjust the height of my base cabinets?
Yes, you can adjust height using toe kicks or leveling legs, typically within a 1-3 inch range.
How high should cabinets be above a refrigerator?
Standard refrigerator cabinets are 12-15 inches high, placed about 6 inches above the refrigerator.
What’s the ideal cabinet height for a 8-foot ceiling?
With 8-foot ceilings, standard 84-inch tall cabinets leave a 12-inch soffit space that works well aesthetically.
Are kitchen cabinet heights the same worldwide?
No, standards vary by country. European cabinets, for example, often use a metric system with slightly different dimensions.
Conclusion
Understanding standard kitchen cabinet heights helps ensure a functional, comfortable kitchen layout. While 34.5-inch base cabinets and 30-36 inch wall cabinets are most common, always consider your specific needs and space constraints when planning your kitchen design.