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How Big Is a Queen Size Bed?

  • razibitworld
  • Jan 29
  • 5 min read

Updated: Apr 26

Queen size bed measures is 60" x 80" or (152.4 cm x 203.2 cm)

If you're shopping for a new bed, you might be wondering exactly how big a queen size bed really is. As the most popular mattress size on the market, queen beds offer a great balance of space and practicality for most bedrooms. 

I've helped countless friends pick the right mattress size, and there's a reason why queens reign supreme in master bedrooms across America.

Key point:

  • Queen size beds measure 60 inches wide by 80 inches long (152.4 cm x 203.2 cm)

  • They're the most popular mattress size in the US, offering more space than a full but less than a king

  • Queens are ideal for couples, single sleepers who want extra room, and master bedrooms of average size

  • You'll need a bedroom at least 10' x 10' to comfortably fit a queen bed and basic furniture

Queen bed dimensions and popularity explained

Queen bed dimensions
Queen bed dimensions

When we talk about queen size beds, we're looking at a mattress that measures 60 inches wide by 80 inches long. That's 5 feet in width and 6 feet 8 inches in length. For those who prefer metric, that translates to approximately 152.4 cm wide by 203.2 cm long.

What makes queen beds so popular?? They hit that sweet spot between the smaller full size mattress (54" x 75") and the more spacious king (76" x 80"). I've found that queens provide just enough room for two adults to sleep comfortably without taking up too much floor space in your bedroom.

the queen size wasn't always the default choice for American bedrooms. Back in the 1950 s and 60 s, full-size beds (also called double beds) were the standard for couples.. As homes grew larger and people wanted more personal space, the queen gained popularity.

queen size beds
queen size beds

who benefits most from a queen size bed?

From my experience helping friends furnish their homes, queen beds work especially well for:

Couples with average space needs

For most couples, a queen provides adequate room without requiring an enormous bedroom. Each person gets about 30 inches of personal space—not luxurious, but definitely workable for most relationships.

Single sleepers who like to stretch out

If you're single but tend to spread out when you sleep, or you sometimes share your bed with pets, a queen gives you plenty of room to get comfortable. It's also great if you work from bed occasionally or just like having extra space.

growing teens

For teenagers who are still growing or just want a more adult-sized bed, queens are perfect. They'll last through college years and beyond, making them a practical investment.

Guest rooms with enough space

When furnishing a decent-sized guest room, a queen bed works well because it comfortably accommodates either single visitors or couples.

Queen vs. other mattress sizes

Mattress size comparison chart
Mattress size comparison chart

How does the queen compare to other common mattress sizes? Let's take a look:

Mattress Size

Dimensions (inches)

Dimensions (cm)

Best For

Queen

60" x 80"

152.4 x 203.2

Couples, average master bedrooms

King

76" x 80"

193 x 203.2

Couples who want extra space

Twin

38" x 75"

96.5 x 190.5

Children, small single bedrooms

Full/Double

54" x 75"

137.2 x 190.5

Single adults, smaller rooms

California King

72" x 84"

182.9 x 213.4

Taller individuals

The jump from a full to a queen gives you 6 extra inches of width and 5 additional inches of length. That might not sound like much on paper, but trust me, it makes a huge difference when you're sharing a bed with someone else.

I remember when Jamie switched from a full to a queen bed in his apartment. "I can actually stretch out now without hanging off the edge," he mentioned when I visited. "And my girlfriend stopped complaining about me stealing all the space."

Will a queen size bed fit in yOur room? please make sure

Bedroom layout examples
Bedroom layout examples

Before you commit to a queen size bed, you'll want to make sure it'll fit comfortably in your bedroom. Here's what I've learned from helping friends arrange their bedrooms:

You'll need a bedroom that's at least 10 feet by 10 feet (100 square feet) to accommodate a queen bed and basic furniture like nightstands and a dresser. 

The ideal bedroom size would be closer to 12 feet by 12 feet, which gives you plenty of room to walk around and add more furniture pieces if needed.

When measuring your space, don't forget to account for:

Bed frame dimensions

Remember that your bed frame will extend beyond the mattress size. Most queen frames add 2-5 inches to both the length and width of your setup.

Walking space

You will want at least 2 feet of clearance on the sides and foot of the bed for comfortable movement. Nothing's worse than constantly bumping your shins on the bed frame when you're trying to navigate your bedroom.

Door clearance

Check that your bedroom door can fully open without hitting the bed. I've seen too many friends realize too late that their door now only opens halfway!

Queen bed accessories and considerations

Bedding requirements
Bedding requirements

Once you have determined a queen bed will fit your space, you'll need to consider these additional factors:

Bedding requirements

Queen size sheets, comforters, and blankets are widely available and typically more affordable than king size options. You'll need:

  • Fitted sheet with pocket depth appropriate for your mattress height

  • Flat sheet (top sheet)

  • Comforter or duvet with cover

  • 2-4 standard or queen size pillows

Box spring or foundation

Most queen mattresses require some type of foundation. Depending on your mattress type, you might need a traditional box spring, a platform bed, or a slatted foundation.

Bed frame optioons

Queen bed frames come in countless styles, from simple metal frames to elaborate wooden headboards with footboards. The style you choose will impact the total footprint of your bed, so measure carefully.

Moving considerations

Queen mattresses can be cumbersome to move, especially around tight corners or up stairs. If you live in an apartment with narrow hallways or plan to move frequently, take this into account. I learned this lesson the hard way helping my friend move her queen mattress up three flights of narrow stairs in an old building.

In the end

Queen size beds strike an ideal balance between comfort and practicality for most people. At 60" x 80" (152.4 cm x 203.2 cm), they provide enough space for couples to sleep comfortably while fitting in most average-sized bedrooms.

Whether you're upgrading from a smaller bed, furnishing your first place, or setting up a guest room, a queen mattress is usually a safe bet. Just make sure to measure your space carefully and consider your specific needs before making the purchase.

If you're still undecided between sizes, think about your sleeping habits, who will be using the bed, and how long you plan to keep it. Remember that a good mattress is an investment in your sleep health, and getting the right size is the first step toward better rest.

© 2024 by Tech Wise Guide

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