Choosing the right coffee table height is essential for creating a comfortable and visually balanced living room. While style plays a big role, functionality matters even more—especially when you’re reaching for your cup, remote, or favorite book.
Understanding the standard coffee table height helps you pick a piece that complements your sofa, maintains good proportions, and enhances the overall flow of your space. In this blog, we’ll break down the ideal measurements so you can select the perfect coffee table for both comfort and style.
What Is the Standard Coffee Table Height?
The standard coffee table height is typically 16 to 18 inches, which suits most sofas and keeps everything within easy reach. This height creates a comfortable balance between your seating and the table, making the space feel natural and functional. It also ensures you can place drinks, décor, or remotes without leaning too far forward. If your sofa is taller than average, you may need a slightly taller table for better comfort.
Read Related: Sizing guide for your coffee table
How High Should a Coffee Table Be?
Your coffee table should be about the same height as your sofa seat, or just a little lower. This makes the table comfortable to use and keeps your living room looking balanced. When the table and sofa seat are close in height, it’s easier to place drinks, reach for items, and keep the space visually neat.
Recommended Coffee Table Heights
- For standard sofas (16–18″ seat height): Pick a 16–18″ coffee table
- For deeper, modern sofas (20–22″ seat height): Choose a 19–21″ coffee table
- For a low, modern look: A 14–15″ table works well for a relaxed style
- Simple rule: The coffee table should not be higher than the sofa seat and can be up to 2 inches lower
How Far From the Sofa Should a Coffee Table Be?
Your coffee table should be about 14–18 inches away from the front of your sofa. This distance keeps the table close enough to reach comfortably while still giving you enough space to move around and walk through the seating area. When combined with the ideal coffee table height, this spacing helps your living room feel practical, comfortable, and visually balanced.
Why This Distance Works
- 14–18 inches is the perfect balance between comfort and functionality
- It prevents the space from feeling cramped
- You can sit, stretch your legs, and move around without bumping into the table
- You can reach your drink, remote, or décor without leaning too far forward
Factors to Consider When Choosing Coffee Table Height
When choosing the right coffee table, height isn’t the only thing to consider. Several factors can influence your decision to ensure the table is both functional and stylish.
- Sofa Height: Your coffee table should be level with your sofa seat or slightly lower (1–2 inches) to ensure comfort and easy reach.
- Table Function: Think about how you’ll use the table: for drinks, snacks, décor, storage, or working. Functional needs can affect the height you choose.
- Room Size: In smaller rooms, a lower or compact table can make the space feel open. In larger living areas, a taller or longer table may look more proportional.
- Table Shape: Round, square, or rectangular tables can affect perceived height. For example, round tables often look slightly taller than rectangular ones of the same height.
- Style and Aesthetics: Modern, minimalist, or traditional styles may favor lower or higher tables to match the overall look of the room.
- Accessibility: Make sure there’s enough clearance between the sofa and table (usually 14–18 inches) for comfortable movement and legroom.
Find the Perfect Coffee Table at Affordable Furniture 610
Still unsure how tall a coffee table should be? Affordable Furniture 610 makes it simple to find the perfect table for your space, offering options that combine style, comfort, and the right height for everyday use.
Visit us today because each table is designed to complement your sofa, create a balanced look, and make your space more functional and inviting. Shop now and transform your living area with the perfect coffee table today!