Kitchen Height Guide: Standard Counter Height, Base and Wall Cabinet Heights, Hood Height, Gap Between Counter and Cabinets and Adjusting for Tall or Short Users
The right kitchen height saves your back: a counter that is too low makes you stoop and one that is too high strains your shoulders. A standard kitchen counter height is about 34 to 36 inches, but the ideal depends on the tallest cook. This guide gives standard heights for counters, base and wall cabinets and hoods, the gap between counter and wall cabinets, and how to adjust for tall or short users. For counter materials see kitchen slabs and for planning see modular kitchens.
Standard heights
These are common planning figures. Adjust them to the people who cook most.
| Item | Typical value |
|---|---|
| Counter or platform height | 34 - 36 in (86 - 91 cm) |
| Base cabinet carcase | 30 - 32 in plus plinth and top |
| Plinth height | 4 - 5 in |
| Gap between counter and wall cabinets | 18 - 24 in |
| Wall cabinet bottom from floor | 54 - 60 in |
| Hood above hob | 24 - 30 in |
Prices move with brand, model, size and stock. Use these ranges to judge a quote, then compare the exact model and what is included.
Finding your best counter height
Stand straight with your elbow bent at 90 degrees and measure from the floor to your elbow. The best working height is about 4 to 6 inches below that. For most adults this gives 34 to 36 inches. If two people cook, pick a height that suits the main cook, and use a stool or low section for others.
Tall and short users
Tall users may prefer 37 to 40 inches, and short users 32 to 34 inches. If heights differ, make the sink counter a little higher and the prep area a little lower. Children can use a low prep section or a stool.
Wall cabinets and gap
The gap between the counter and wall cabinets should be about 18 to 24 inches for comfort and light. Higher wall cabinets give more working room but are harder to reach. Keep the most used items between shoulder and hip height.
Hob and hood
Install a hood 24 to 30 inches above a gas hob, and a little lower for induction, following the maker's guide. A hob counter slightly lower than the prep counter helps with tall pots. See induction hobs and kitchen hoods.
Sink height
Remember that the sink bowl adds depth, so a deep sink makes the working surface feel lower. A counter at 36 inches with a 9 inch deep sink suits many users. See kitchen sinks for sizes.
What to check before building
- Floor level. Final floor, not bare slab.
- Slab thickness. Counts toward height.
- Appliance heights. Fridge, oven and dishwasher.
- User heights. Mark them on the wall.
Checking a mock-up
Before cabinets are finalised, mark the counter height on the wall with tape, stand at it and mimic chopping. Adjust by an inch if needed. Small changes at this stage cost nothing, and changes after fitting cost a lot.
Indicative kitchen rates
These are indicative market ranges in Pakistani rupees, not a fixed quote. Exact rates depend on brand, size, quality and quantity, so compare at least two quotations on the same specification.
| Item | Indicative range |
|---|---|
| Standard laminated kitchen, installed, per sq ft of cabinet face | PKR 1,500 - 2,500 |
| UV, acrylic or lacquer kitchen, per sq ft of cabinet face | PKR 2,300 - 3,500 |
| Premium custom kitchen, per sq ft of cabinet face | PKR 2,500 - 4,500 |
| Complete 10 to 12 ft kitchen set with top and hardware | PKR 150,000 - 350,000 |
| Kitchen mixer tap, each | PKR 2,000 - 25,000 |
Frequently Asked Questions
About 34 to 36 inches, or 86 to 91 centimetres, for most adults. Tall users may prefer 37 to 40 inches and short users 32 to 34 inches. Ask for the specification in writing so you can compare quotes on the same basis.
About 18 to 24 inches, which gives working room and light. Keep everyday items between shoulder and hip height. Check the warranty terms and who honours them before you pay. Measure carefully and confirm sizes with the seller before ordering. Rates and stock change, so confirm the current position before you commit.
About 24 to 30 inches above a gas hob, a little lower for induction, following the maker's guide. Measure carefully and confirm sizes with the seller before ordering. Rates and stock change, so confirm the current position before you commit. If you are unsure, send a photo and the measurements and we will advise.
Measure from the floor to your bent elbow and subtract 4 to 6 inches. For most adults this gives 34 to 36 inches. Rates and stock change, so confirm the current position before you commit. If you are unsure, send a photo and the measurements and we will advise.
A deep sink makes the surface feel lower, so some people raise the sink area slightly. Keep the main prep area at the main cook's comfort height. If you are unsure, send a photo and the measurements and we will advise. Ask for the specification in writing so you can compare quotes on the same basis.
Message us on WhatsApp with what you need and where it will be used. We check what we can supply and send a written rate showing the model, quantity, warranty and delivery, so you can judge it against other offers. Rates and stock change, so confirm the current position before you commit.
Planning kitchen heights?
Send the details and a photo. We reply with a written rate.