Quick answer and standard height range
Most end tables fall between 20 to 26 inches tall. The best height for your space is usually within 2 inches above or below the height of the sofa or chair arm that sits next to it. That keeps drinks and lamps within easy reach, looks balanced in photos, and feels natural when you sit down.
| Seating type | Typical seat height | Typical arm height | Recommended end table height |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low modern sofa | 15 to 17 in | 22 to 23 in | 21 to 24 in |
| Standard sofa | 17 to 19 in | 24 to 25 in | 23 to 26 in |
| Deep lounge chair | 16 to 18 in | 22 to 24 in | 21 to 25 in |
| Traditional armchair | 18 to 20 in | 24 to 26 in | 23 to 27 in |
How to measure for the right end table height
Step 1 Measure your sofa or chair arm
Sit on the sofa or chair you are pairing with the end table. Measure from the floor up to the top of the arm. Write that number down, that is your anchor measurement.
Step 2 Decide how you use the table
Think about the main job of the table. Is it for drinks and remotes, a lamp, stacked books, or just visual balance. Function should be clear before you choose height.
| Main use | Height tweak from arm height | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Drinks and remotes | Same height to 1 in higher | Easier to reach without bending or tipping a glass |
| Reading lamp | 1 to 3 in higher | Raises lamp shade closer to eye level for better light spread |
| Decor and styling | 1 to 2 in lower or higher | Gives more freedom for proportion and layered styling |
| Small space beside arm | Often 1 in lower | Helps keep the area from feeling crowded or bulky |
Step 3 Use the simple height rule
As a working rule, aim for an end table height that is within 2 inches of the sofa or chair arm. If your arm is 24 inches tall, target 22 to 26 inches for the end table. Going much higher or lower starts to look awkward and feels less comfortable.
Height guidelines by layout
End table next to a sofa
General rule
Target the top of the end table at the same height as the sofa arm. Allow a swing of 1 to 2 inches up or down based on function and style.
When to choose a lower end table
Choose a slightly lower table when the sofa has a low arm, the table is tucked in front of a deep cushion, or the room already feels visually heavy. A lower profile keeps the sight line open and lets art, windows, and lamps stand out.
When to choose a taller end table
Choose a taller table when the sofa arm is very slim, the lamp needs extra height to clear the back of the sofa, or you want a more traditional, formal look. In those cases, a table up to 3 inches above the arm can still feel balanced.
End table between two chairs
Match the taller arm
If you place an end table between two chairs, measure both arms and aim to match the taller one. That keeps drinks reachable from each side and avoids a table that feels short next to one of the chairs.
Think about shared use
When two people will share the table, do not go too low. Someone will always be leaning forward. A table 23 to 26 inches tall works well for most pairs of lounge or accent chairs.
End table with a low armless sofa
Use seat height instead of arm height
If your seating has no arms, use the seat height as your guide. Measure from floor to the top of the seat cushion, then choose an end table that is within 2 to 4 inches above that number. You want to reach sideways, not down.
Lamp height and end table height together
How high should the lamp sit
When you sit on the sofa or chair, the bottom of the lamp shade should be near your eye level. For most people this means a combined height of table plus lamp of about 54 to 60 inches from the floor. Adjust based on your own height and the ceiling height of the room.
| End table height | Lamp height | Total height | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 22 in | 28 to 32 in | 50 to 54 in | Works for low sofas and casual spaces |
| 24 in | 28 to 34 in | 52 to 58 in | Good all around range for most living rooms |
| 26 in | 30 to 36 in | 56 to 62 in | Better for tall ceilings or traditional rooms |
Simple height formula infographic
Visual checklist for choosing end table height
Use this as a quick mental infographic when you shop or style.
- Step 1 Sit on the sofa or chair, then measure from floor to arm top (or to seat top if there is no arm).
- Step 2 Decide the main job of the table (drinks, lamp, decor, all of the above).
- Step 3 Start with the arm height as your base number. Add 1 to 2 inches for a lamp focus, subtract 1 inch for a light, airy look.
- Step 4 Check comfort. Reach for where your drink would sit. Your arm should move sideways and slightly up, not down.
- Step 5 Check proportion from across the room. The end table should sit close to the arm height, not towering above it and not sinking below it.
Common mistakes to avoid
Table much taller than the arm
A table that is 4 or more inches taller than the arm feels like a pedestal. It can make the sofa look small and is awkward for daily use. You end up lifting drinks rather than sliding them onto the surface.
Table much lower than the seat
A very low end table looks stylish in photos but is not practical for real life. If you have to bend forward every time you reach for something, the height is too low. Stay within a few inches of the arm height and within 6 inches of the seat height.
Ignoring the lamp and art around it
End table height does not live alone. It interacts with lamp height, wall art, and window lines. When in doubt, set up the table, add the lamp, step back, and check how the whole vignette sits in the room.
Bottom line
The right height for an end table is not a fixed number. It is a relationship between the table, the sofa or chair, and how you plan to use the surface. Stay close to the arm height, adjust a little for comfort and lamp height, and check the view from across the room. If it feels easy to use and looks balanced, you have the right end table height.
