King Size Bed Dimensions

Sizes12 min read Updated November 5, 2026
Written by Zulekha Nishad

Last Updated November 5, 2026

A king size bed measures 76 inches wide and 80 inches long, which makes it the widest standard mattress size you can buy. It gives each of two sleepers 38 inches of personal space, the same width as a twin XL. If you and your partner like to spread out, or kids and pets often end up in your bed, a king is hard to beat. Just make sure your bedroom has the space, because a king works best in larger rooms. This guide covers king dimensions in inches, feet and centimeters, how a king compares with a queen and a California king, split and oversized kings, the room size you need, and which bedding fits.

Quick answer

A standard king mattress (also called an Eastern king) is 76 x 80 inches (6'4" x 6'8", or about 193 x 203 cm). When two people share it, each gets 38 inches of width. Plan on a bedroom of at least 12 x 12 feet and a bed frame of about 78-81 x 82-85 inches. A split king is two 38 x 80 inch halves, and a California king is 72 x 84 inches: 4 inches narrower and 4 inches longer.

Key Takeaways:

  • A standard king size bed measures 76 x 80 inches (6.33 x 6.67 feet, or 193.04 x 203.2 cm).
  • Each of two sleepers gets 38 inches of width, 8 inches more than on a queen.
  • A bedroom of at least 12 x 12 feet is recommended for a king size bed.
  • Compared with a queen, a king is 16 inches wider and the same length. A California king (72 x 84 inches) is 4 inches narrower and 4 inches longer than a king.
  • A split king is two 38 x 80 inch halves (the size of two twin XLs) that together make a standard 76 x 80 inch king.
  • Oversized kings such as the Texas king (80 x 98), Wyoming king (84 x 84) and Alaskan king (108 x 108) need custom frames and bedding.
  • King mattresses are ideal for couples who want room to spread out, families who share the bed with kids or pets, and larger primary bedrooms.
King size bed dimensions diagram showing a 76 by 80 inch mattress with two adults and a child sleeping.
A standard king mattress is 76 inches wide and 80 inches long.

Want to compare every size at once? Our mattress size chart covers twin through California king. Ready to shop? Browse all king size mattresses.


King Size Bed Dimensions (in Inches, Feet, cm)

Mattress dimensions are always written as width x length. Here is the standard US king in every unit you're likely to need.

76 x 80"King, width x length
6'4" x 6'8"The same size in feet
193 x 203 cmThe same size in centimeters
38"Width per person when two share
King size bed Dimensions (W x L)
Inches 76 x 80 inches
Feet (decimal) 6.33 x 6.67 feet
Feet and inches 6'4" x 6'8"
Centimeters 193.04 x 203.2 cm
Meters About 1.93 x 2.03 m
Sleeping surface 6,080 square inches (about 42.2 square feet)

Thickness isn't part of the size. A king can be anywhere from about 6 to 14 inches deep, so check the depth of the mattress you choose before you buy fitted sheets. For example, Turmerry's 7 Zone Organic Latex Mattress comes in 7, 10 and 12 inch king options.

King vs. Other Mattress Sizes

Not sure if a king is the right fit? Here's how it compares with the sizes you're most likely weighing it against.

Mattress size Inches (W x L) Centimeters (W x L) Width each if two share Minimum room size Best for
Queen 60 x 80 in 152 x 203 cm 30 in 10 x 10 ft Most couples, single adults who want extra space
King 76 x 80 in 193 x 203 cm 38 in 12 x 12 ft Couples who want maximum personal space, families who share the bed with kids or pets
Split King Two 38 x 80 in halves Two 97 x 203 cm halves 38 in 12 x 12 ft Couples who want a different firmness on each side
California King 72 x 84 in 183 x 213 cm 36 in 12 x 12 ft Taller couples and sleepers over 6 feet

King vs. queen

A king is 16 inches wider than a queen (60 x 80 inches) and the same length. That adds 1,280 square inches of sleeping surface (6,080 vs. 4,800), about 27% more. Each partner gets 38 inches instead of 30. The trade-off is room size and cost: a queen fits a 10 x 10 foot room, while a king needs about 12 x 12 feet, and king bedding costs more too.

King vs. California king

A California king is 72 x 84 inches: 4 inches narrower and 4 inches longer than a standard king. The two have almost the same sleeping surface (6,080 vs. 6,048 square inches), so the choice comes down to width or length. If you're taller than about 6 feet 2 inches and want room beyond your feet, the Cal king's extra length helps. If you share the bed with a partner, kids or pets, the standard king's extra width is usually more useful. Our king vs. California king guide and California king size guide go into more detail.

Good to know

King and California king mattresses aren't interchangeable. Fitted sheets, protectors and frames are made for one or the other, so check which you have before you shop. Flat sheets, blankets and comforters are more forgiving, and many brands sell one size for both.

Split King Mattress Dimensions

A split king is a king divided down the middle, so each sleeper can choose their own firmness. Each half is 38 x 80 inches (about 97 x 203 cm), the size of a twin XL, and together they make a standard 76 x 80 inch king. Because the outside size is the same, a split king fits a standard king frame.

Split king Dimensions (W x L)
Each half 38 x 80 in (about 97 x 203 cm)
Both halves together 76 x 80 in (about 193 x 203 cm), the same as a king
Split California king, each half 36 x 84 in (about 91 x 213 cm)

Many split kings are simply two separate twin XL mattresses side by side. That works, but the two can drift apart and leave a gap in the middle, and you may need two twin XL fitted sheets. Our guide to putting two twin beds together explains how to join them.

Good to know: Turmerry's split king

Turmerry's split king latex mattresses come in one zippered organic cotton cover the full size of a king, with two side-by-side sets of latex layers inside. You can unzip the cover, see the layers and set each side to its own firmness, and the bed still takes regular king sheets and protectors.

Who Should Buy a King Size Bed?

A king mattress is an excellent choice if you have plenty of floor space. It suits couples who don't want to feel cramped at night, and anyone who regularly shares the bed.

Couples

A king gives two people 38 inches each, so you can move around at night without bumping into each other. If one or both of you toss and turn, or just like extra personal space, a king suits you best.

Families

If a child climbs into bed on weekend mornings and your dog claims a corner at night, a king's extra width makes sharing the bed more comfortable.

Combination sleepers

People who switch positions a lot have room to stretch out and roll over without disturbing their partner.

Larger primary bedrooms

A king naturally becomes the centerpiece of a spacious primary bedroom, and it fills the room in proportion without making it feel crowded.

A king may not be right if
  • Your bedroom is smaller than about 12 x 12 feet, or doors and drawers would hit the bed.
  • You're taller than about 6 feet 2 inches and want room beyond your feet (look at a California king).
  • You sleep alone and would rather save on the mattress and bedding (a queen gives one person plenty of room).
Sleeping with a baby?

A king gives older kids room to join you, but the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies sleep on their own firm, flat surface, such as a crib or bassinet in your room, rather than in an adult bed.

How Much Room and Budget Does a King Bed Require?

A king size bed fits best in a bedroom measuring at least 12 x 12 feet. That leaves enough clearance to walk around the bed and fit a nightstand on each side. A typical primary bedroom of about 12 x 14 feet or larger gives you more freedom to add a dresser, bench or reading chair.

Here's the math: even with an 81 x 85 inch king frame in a 12 x 12 foot room, you have about 31 inches of floor on each side and 59 inches at the foot. That's more than the 2 feet of walking space we recommend around any bed.

Overhead diagram of a king size bed in a 12 by 12 foot room, with a family of three sleeping on the mattress and open floor around it.
A king fits a 12 x 12 foot room with space to walk around it.

As for budget, king mattresses cost more than smaller sizes, and prices vary widely with the materials, thickness and certifications. Natural and organic latex costs more to make than basic foam or innerspring, but it's also known for lasting a long time. In addition to the mattress, set aside money for a king size bed frame and bedding essentials, like a mattress protector and sheets, so you're budgeting for the complete setup.

Will it fit? Check your room

Leave about 2 feet of open floor on both sides of the bed and at the foot. Measure your room and compare it with the minimum room sizes above.

Consider These Things Before You Buy a King Size Bed

A king size bed gives you more room to stretch out, but it also takes up more space and needs larger bedding. Before you buy one, make sure it fits both your bedroom and the way you sleep.

  1. Personal sleeping space

    If you and your partner like room to stretch out, a king is worth it. Each sleeper gets 38 inches, compared with 30 inches on a queen, so it's easier to move around without disturbing the other person. The extra space also helps if kids or pets often join you.

  2. Bedroom size and layout

    A king fits best in a bedroom of at least 12 x 12 feet. In a smaller room you'll end up with little walking space, and doors, drawers and closets may not open freely. A room of 12 x 14 feet or more lets you create a roomier layout. Measure your stairs, hallways and doorways too, so you know the mattress can get to the bedroom.

  3. Bed frame compatibility

    King bed frames measure about 78-81 inches wide and 82-85 inches long. Choose one made for a standard king, with center support legs so the middle doesn't sag. If you plan to use an adjustable base, check that your mattress works with it; latex, memory foam and many hybrid mattresses usually do, while many traditional innerspring mattresses aren't made to bend. Our bed frame size chart and adjustable bed size guide have the details.

  4. Mattress firmness and thickness

    Side sleepers often prefer a softer feel for more cushioning and pressure relief at the shoulders and hips. Back and stomach sleepers usually prefer a medium-firm to firm mattress for more support. If you and your partner have different preferences, settle on a medium-firm or consider a split king. For thickness, 10 to 12 inches suits most couples, and heavier sleepers often prefer a thicker, firmer mattress, such as our Bigg+ Natural Latex Mattress, which comes in king. Suggested read: Mattress Thickness Guide


Recommended King Size Bedding Accessories

Once you've chosen your king mattress, the right accessories protect it and complete your bedroom setup. Bedding is cut bigger than the mattress so it can tuck in or drape over the sides, so a "king" sheet or comforter won't measure 76 x 80 inches. Here's what to look for.

King item Typical size Sizing guide
Fitted sheet 76 x 80 in, with a pocket a few inches deeper than your mattress Bed sheet sizes
Flat sheet About 108-110 x 102-110 in Bed sheet sizes
Blanket About 108-110 x 90-100 in (also fits a California king) Blanket size chart
Comforter About 100-106 x 86-92 in Comforter sizes
Duvet cover Often about 106-111 x 92-98 in; sizes vary by brand Duvet cover size chart
Pillows Two king (20 x 36 in) pillows, or three standard (20 x 26 in) pillows Pillow sizes
Topper, pad or protector 76 x 80 in, to match the mattress Check the depth it fits
Tip for split kings

A split king made from two separate twin XL mattresses can use two twin XL fitted sheets with one king flat sheet and comforter on top. A split king inside one king-size cover, like Turmerry's, takes a regular king fitted sheet.

King bed frame

A king mattress weighs more than smaller sizes, so it needs a sturdy frame with center support to prevent sagging. Platform beds with closely spaced slats work well with latex, memory foam and hybrid mattresses, while traditional innerspring mattresses may need a box spring. Shop bed frames

King mattress topper

A topper can make a firm bed feel softer and add pressure relief, or add a firmer, more supportive feel. Keep in mind it won't fix a mattress that's already worn out. Our latex toppers are made without a middle seam, even in king. Shop king toppers

King mattress pad

If you're happy with your mattress but want a touch more comfort, a mattress pad adds a light layer of cushioning while protecting the surface from everyday wear. Shop mattress pads

King mattress protector

A waterproof mattress protector helps guard against spills, sweat and dust without changing how the mattress feels. It's especially useful in homes with kids and pets. Shop king protectors

King sheets

Cotton sheets are soft, breathable and suit most sleepers. Check how thick your mattress is first: deep-pocket fitted sheets fit thicker beds, or a mattress plus topper, much better.

King comforter and duvet cover

A comforter keeps you warm and gives your bed a finished look. Lighter fills suit warm rooms and heavier ones suit cool rooms. Washing a large comforter is a chore, so a removable duvet cover keeps it clean and is much easier to wash. Shop wool comforters

Every King Mattress Size Compared

Along with the standard king, you'll see the California king, split king, RV kings, the UK super king and oversized kings like the Texas king. Here's a quick look at the dimensions of each.

King mattress variant Inches (W x L) Centimeters (W x L) Good to know
Standard King (Eastern King) 76 x 80 in 193 x 203 cm The size most frames, sheets and protectors are made for
Split King Two 38 x 80 in halves (76 x 80 in total) Two 97 x 203 cm halves Each side can have its own firmness
California King (Western King) 72 x 84 in 183 x 213 cm 4 inches narrower and 4 inches longer than a king
Super King 70.9 x 78.7 in 180 x 200 cm A UK size (traditionally 6' x 6'6"); smaller than a US king
RV King 70-72 x 74-80 in 178-183 x 188-203 cm RV kings vary by maker; measure your platform
RV Short King 72 x 74 or 72 x 75 in 183 x 188 or 183 x 191 cm Common in campers and motorhomes
Texas King 80 x 98 in 203 x 249 cm Extra long for very tall sleepers
Wyoming King 84 x 84 in 213 x 213 cm Square, 8 inches wider than a king
Alaskan King 108 x 108 in 274 x 274 cm The largest common mattress size

Oversized kings like the Texas, Wyoming and Alaskan king are specialty sizes, so you'll usually need a custom frame and custom or oversized bedding. Our Wyoming vs. Alaskan vs. Texas king guide and biggest bed size guide compare them. Sleeping on the road? Turmerry's RV mattress comes in a short king (72 x 74 inches) and several RV king sizes, and our RV mattress size guide explains how to measure yours.

Get the Best King Size Mattresses at Turmerry

Woman in satin pajamas lying on a white Turmerry mattress with two cream pillows against a wood slat headboard.

If you're ready to upgrade your sleep, explore Turmerry's king latex mattresses. Most of our all-latex mattresses use GOLS-certified organic Dunlop latex, and the 7 Zone Organic Latex Mattress comes in king and split king in several firmness levels and thicknesses. Prefer coils? The Organic Latex Hybrid pairs FSC-certified Talalay latex with pocket coils in a GOTS organic cotton cover.

Most of our latex mattresses are separate layers inside a zippered organic cotton cover, so you can unzip it, see what's inside and swap a layer to change the feel. Every mattress comes with a 120-night trial (try it for at least 30 nights) and free shipping in the contiguous US, and most orders ship the same business day from Charlotte, NC.


Frequently Asked Questions

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Disclaimer: What is said in this article has been referenced from multiple sources and is intended only for educational and informational purposes. Please note that no content in this article is a substitute for professional advice from a qualified doctor or healthcare provider. Always consult an experienced doctor with any concerns you may have regarding a health condition or treatment, and never disregard any medical suggestions or delay in seeking treatment because of something you read here.