Standard Kitchen Benchtop Height

Standard kitchen benchtop height and depth illustration

The standard kitchen benchtop height is 900mm. Source: National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) 

This height is designed to accommodate the average adult height of 170 cm for men and 165 cm for women. It also ensures compatibility with standard sizes of most kitchen appliances such as dishwashers, stoves, and ovens.  It is a critical consideration in any kitchen design or renovation. It affects the overall functionality and comfort of the space, impacting how users interact with the kitchen. 

This "one-size-fits-all" approach might not provide the best ergonomic solution for everyone, especially if you or members of your household are significantly taller or shorter than average.

What Is The Ergonomic Height?

The ergonomic height is approximately 150mm below your elbow. See table below.

Ergonomic kitchen benchtop height illustration

Ergonomic Benchtop Height Table

Your HeightBenchtop Height
150 cm80 cm
155 cm85 cm
160 cm90 cm
165 cm90 cm
170 cm95 cm
175 cm95 cm
180 cm95 cm
185 cm99 cm
190 cm99 cm

Warning - If you are planning on renovating your kitchen and want a countertop around 85 cm or lower, double check that the dishwasher space can accommodate a full size dishwasher. If not, you may have to choose a smaller capacity dishwasher drawer instead.

Choosing the right kitchen benchtop height is more than just following standard guidelines, it's about creating a space that works for you. By taking into account your personal height, ergonomics, and future needs, you can design a kitchen that is both comfortable and functional.

See also - Standard Benchtop Depth