Guide to Standard Kitchen Cabinet Size

Kitchen cabinet sizes vary based on the layout and use of each part of the kitchen. You might have extra deep cabinets on your island and more compact wall cabinets. Most base cabinets share the same standard height but are available in many widths and depths. The same applies to wall cabinets, though there are more height options.

Whether you're planning a total kitchen remodel or just want to refresh your kitchen cabinets for a new look, knowing what options are available is a good idea.

This guide provides some of the most common options for standard cabinet sizing in the most common types of cabinets and other factors that might impact size.

If you're ready to find out what your kitchen could look like with a refresh, find out more about standard cabinet sizes and what will fit into your kitchen.

The workhorse of any kitchen, the base cabinets support your countertops and provide lots of storage space. Typically, expect these to be 34.5" tall for a final height of 36" with an installed countertop. Standard base cabinets are usually 21 or 24 inches deep and have widths ranging from 12 to 42 inches.

Some specialty base cabinets may have different measurements to accommodate pull-outs or other design features.

Wall cabinets tend to be used for dishes and glassware or storing spices or other small items. This style of cabinetry can run to the ceiling or stop at the upper edge of a reachable height for most people. Standard heights for these cabinets range from 30 to 42 inches tall, with the installation height starting well above the base cabinets. Wall cabinets come in a 12- or 24-inch depth, depending on placement and planned use. The 12-inch style is often installed for food storage or in areas with limited room for countertops. Deeper wall cabinets offer more storage but may limit countertop access. Cabinet boxes in this style are available in 12- to 36-inch widths with optional filler sizes to avoid gaps.

Tall cabinets create a pantry or closet space in your kitchen. These are installed floor-to-ceiling or from the floor to the top of your other cabinetry. These cabinets come in three heights: 86, 90, or 96 inches. They tend to match the base cabinet depth, which is usually 24 inches. Expect tall cabinets to be between 18 and 33 inches wide. This sizing allows storing brooms, mops, and other portable appliances.

While most cabinetry is designed for in-line installation, some exceptions may have specific dimensions. Below are some of the most common specialty cabinets we see installed in modern kitchens.

Below your kitchen sink is a specialty cabinet with the same standard measurements as any other base cabinet but a very different internal layout. These cabinets have a cutout top for easier sink installation and no interior shelving.

Corner cabinets have special requirements for space. Most require a minimum of 24 inches of width and the same for depth. If a corner cabinet is a lazy-Susan style, it should have at least 33 inches of depth at the longest point.

A drawer base cabinet may have exterior dimensions identical to other standard base options, but the front is split between a door and a drawer. Expect a smaller, 24-inch door and about 6 inches reserved for drawer space.

It's essential to keep cabinet depths reasonable to make stored items accessible. That means making sure every cabinet is both beautiful and functional. Filler cabinets, which come in widths as small as 3 inches, can be used for spice storage. Work with a design pro to make the most out of every inch of cubic space in your kitchen.

If you're putting in new cabinetry, you always have the option to customize the finished look and size. You can even blend custom cabinetry with standard boxes to help minimize your cost. If you need a cabinet that functions in a specific way, or you want taller or shorter countertops, ask how to adjust the fit for your home.