How Deep Are Counter Tops?

If you are in the process of purchasing or installing new countertops, it’s quite common to wonder what the standard depth for countertops is. This answer will undoubtedly vary based on which room the countertop must be installed in. Let’s take a look at the different standards for kitchen and bathroom countertops below.

What Is Countertop Depth?

Countertop depth ultimately refers to the measurement from the front to the back of the countertop. This measurement will span from the counter’s edge to the wall featured behind the countertop.

How Deep Are Kitchen Countertops?

The average depth of kitchen countertops is 25 1/2 inches deep. While it is certainly possible to have deeper countertops, this standard depth still offers vast amounts of space.

Standard countertop depths are aesthetically pleasing and will help you maximize your space, at the same time.

Here are the standard kitchen countertop depths:

Cabinet Depth	24 Inches
Countertop Depth	25 1/2 Inches
Overhang Depth	1 1/2 Inches

How Deep Are Bathroom Countertops?

It’s no secret the standard depth of bathroom countertops will differ from kitchen countertops. Typically, these countertops will be between 19 1/2 to 22 1/2 inches deep.

The sizing may change based on a few different factors, but the standard size will suffice in the majority of cases.

Here is a quick overview of standard bathroom countertop depth:

Cabinet Depth	18-21 Inches
Countertop Depth	19 1/2 – 22 1/2 Inches
Overhang Depth	1 1/2 Inches

Standard Countertop Depth Factors

The number one factor impacting depth is the overall size of the base cabinets. For example, standard kitchen countertop depth allows for enough space to make cabinet doors and drawers easily accessible.

Most kitchen cabinet depths are about 24 inches deep. In the bathroom, meanwhile, the standard countertop depth will represent a difference of 1 1/2 inches from the base cabinets. These cabinets should be between 18 to 21 inches deep. The 1 1/2-inch difference is enough room to make the cabinets accessible.

The Americans With Disabilities Act Accessible Guidelines dictates that counters must have at least 30 inches of accessible space. The counters need to be between 28 and 34 inches high, featuring a minimum of 27 inches of knee clearance below. This creates enough space for wheelchair users.