What Is The Size Of a California King Mattress? Exact Dimensions & FAQ
If you’re searching “What Is The Size Of a California King Mattress”, you’re likely comparing it to other mattress sizes and wondering whether it will fit your room and sleep needs. This guide explains the exact dimensions, how a California king compares to a standard king, and when it makes sense to choose this longer, narrower option.
What Is The Size Of a California King Mattress?
A standard California king mattress measures approximately 72 inches wide by 84 inches long.
In other words:
- Width: 72"
- Length: 84"
That makes a California king 4 inches longer and 4 inches narrower than a standard king mattress, which typically measures 76" x 80".
Many people assume a California king is simply “bigger” in every way. In reality, it is longer but slightly less wide, giving a different kind of sleeping space.
How Does a California King Compare to Other Mattress Sizes?
To put “What Is The Size Of a California King Mattress” into context, it helps to see it next to other common sizes:
| Mattress Size | Approx. Dimensions (W x L) |
|---|---|
| Full / Double | 54" x 75" |
| Queen | 60" x 80" |
| King (Standard) | 76" x 80" |
| California King | 72" x 84" |
Compared to a queen, a California king is 12 inches wider and 4 inches longer. Compared to a standard king, it loses a bit of width but gains extra legroom.
Who Is a California King Mattress Best For?
Understanding what is the size of a California king mattress is only half the story. The other half is whether that shape works for you.
A California king often suits:
- Taller sleepers who want more legroom and prefer not to sleep with their feet near the edge.
- Couples who value length over maximum shoulder-to-shoulder width.
- Narrow but longer bedrooms, where a standard king might feel too wide.
- People with pets or children who occasionally sleep at the foot of the bed and benefit from extra length.
If you or your partner are tall, the extra 4 inches at the foot can feel significant, especially compared with a queen or full size.
How Much Space Do You Need in Your Bedroom?
Knowing what is the size of a California king mattress helps you plan your room layout. Before choosing this size, consider:
- Room dimensions: A California king often fits best in rooms that are at least around 12 feet by 12 feet, or larger, to allow for walking space and furniture.
- Clearance around the bed: Many people like at least 2–3 feet of space on each side and at the end of the bed for movement and storage.
- Furniture placement: Dressers, nightstands, and seating can reduce the open floor area more than expected.
Measuring your room with painter’s tape on the floor can help you visualize how a 72" x 84" mattress will feel in the space.
Is a California King Bigger Than a Standard King?
This is one of the most common follow-up questions after “What Is The Size Of a California King Mattress?”
- Area of a standard king: 76" x 80" = 6,080 square inches
- Area of a California king: 72" x 84" = 6,048 square inches
So, a standard king has slightly more total surface area, but the California king redistributes that area into more length and less width. Neither is strictly “better”; they simply prioritize different dimensions.
Are Bedding and Accessories Different for a California King?
Yes. Because the size of a California king mattress is unique, it requires bedding and accessories labeled specifically for “California king,” not just “king.”
Expect to look for:
- California king fitted sheets (tailored to 72" x 84")
- California king mattress protectors
- California king bed frames and foundations
Standard king sheets are usually too short in length and may not fit well on a California king mattress.
How Do I Know If a California King Is Right for Me?
When deciding based on what is the size of a California king mattress, consider:
- Your height: If you are tall and often feel cramped on shorter beds, the extra length can be helpful.
- Sleeping positions: People who sleep stretched out may appreciate the added foot room. Side sleepers who curl up may find width more important.
- Partner and pet space: Couples who sleep with pets or children at the foot of the bed may prefer the longer mattress.
- Room shape: Long, rectangular rooms may suit a California king better than a standard king.
Trying to picture where pillows, nightstands, and walking paths will go can clarify which dimensions are more useful for your setup.
✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways
Key points to understand about “What Is The Size Of a California King Mattress”
- A California king mattress is about 72" wide by 84" long.
- It is 4 inches longer and 4 inches narrower than a standard king.
- A California king can be a strong option for taller sleepers and long, narrow rooms.
- It usually requires specialized California king sheets, protectors, and frames.
- The best choice between king and California king often comes down to room shape, height, and whether you value width or length more.
Understanding what is the size of a California king mattress in both inches and in real-world room layout terms can help you choose a mattress size that feels comfortable, practical, and well-suited to your space.
