The Size Difference Between King and California King Mattresses
Did you know the only real difference between a King and a California King is about 4 inches? But that may not be the most surprising difference between the two mattresses. If you’re shopping for a new king mattress, you’ve probably come across the age-old debate: King or California King? It’s easy to assume that a California King is the bigger option—after all, it sounds like it should be. But here’s the twist: while a California King is longer, a standard King mattress actually gives you more surface area overall. Here’s the breakdown: a King mattress measures 76 inches wide by 80 inches long, making it wider and perfect for couples who like a little extra space. On the flip side, a California King comes in at 72 inches wide by 84 inches long, making it the go-to choice for taller sleepers or rooms where length is key. To put this in perspective:- King Mattress: 76 inches wide x 80 inches long = 6,080 square inches
- California King Mattress: 72 inches wide x 84 inches long = 6,048 square inches
So, which one is really the “bigger” mattress? It all depends on what matters most to you—width or length. Despite these differences, both mattresses have their own advantages that you’ll want to consider. What kind of space do you have in your room? Do you want more leg room or more elbow room? In this article, we’ll walk you through the key differences, pros and cons, and help you decide which mattress is the right fit for your sleep style.
King Mattress Details
Sometimes referred to as the “Eastern King,” this mattress has been a popular option for decades, offering enough room to comfortably sleep two people—or even share the space with a pet or two. The King mattress is designed with couples in mind, especially those who want a little extra breathing room during the night.
The origins of the King mattress date back to the mid-20th century when American homes started getting bigger, and the trend towards luxury living was on the rise. More homeowners were seeking out larger bedrooms and matching furnishings that provided not just a bed but a symbol of opulence and modern living. This shift led to the standardization of the King mattress as a spacious, comfortable choice for couples who wanted the ultimate in luxury and space.
Pros
- Plenty of room to spread out: If you and your partner value personal space, a King mattress delivers, giving you ample width to sleep without bumping into each other.
- Easier to find bedding and accessories: King-sized bedding is widely available, making it easy to find sheets, comforters, and other accessories in a variety of styles and price points.
- Typically costs less than a California King: Despite the extra surface area, King mattresses and their accessories often come with a lower price tag, making them a budget-friendly option for those who want more space without the higher cost.
Cons
- May feel too wide for smaller rooms: Because of its generous width, a King mattress can dominate smaller bedrooms, leaving less room for other furniture or movement.
- Not ideal for taller people: If you or your partner are over six feet tall, the standard King’s 80-inch length might leave your feet hanging over the edge, especially if you’re a back or stomach sleeper.
California King Mattress Details
The California King mattress, often known as the “Western King,” is designed with a different priority in mind—length over width. If you’re tall or have a narrow bedroom, this mattress might be just what you’re looking for. The California King offers a longer sleeping surface, making it a favorite for those over six feet tall who want the comfort of stretching out fully without hitting the end of the bed.
The California King was first introduced in the 1960s in—you guessed it—California, as a luxury option for upscale homes with larger bedrooms. But unlike the “Eastern King” mattress, the West coast designs leaned towards longer, narrower rooms. Introduced by a Los Angeles furniture company in the 1960s, this mattress quickly caught on with tall individuals and design-forward buyers who wanted a tailored bed fit for their high-end bedrooms. The idea of the California King became synonymous with luxurious, contemporary living.
Pros
- Perfect for taller people: The California King’s 84-inch length provides extra legroom, making it ideal for individuals or couples where one or both partners are over six feet tall.
- Fits well in narrow rooms: Its narrower width can be a better fit in long, narrow bedrooms where a King mattress might feel cramped.
- Cozier for couples: For couples who like to sleep closer together or prefer a bed that doesn’t take up too much horizontal space, the California King provides a cozier fit.
Cons
- Can be harder to find accessories: While King-sized bedding is common, finding sheets and comforters specifically designed for a California King can be more of a challenge, limiting your options.
- Typically more expensive: The longer size and lower availability often come with a higher price tag for both the mattress and its accessories, which could be a factor if you’re on a budget.
King vs. California King at a Glance
To make your decision easier, let’s break down the key differences between a King and California King mattress with a quick comparison chart. This overview highlights the main dimensions, bedding sizes, and best use cases for each mattress type.
| Feature | King Mattress | California King Mattress |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 80” | 84” |
| Width | 76” | 72” |
| Fitted Sheet Size | 80” x 76” | 84” x 72” |
| Flat Sheet Size | 102” x 112” | 102” x 112” |
| Duvet / Comforter Size | 96” x 109” | 96” x 109” |
| Best Use Case | Sleepers under 6’0”-6’2” who are looking for more sleeping space. | Sleepers over 6’0”-6’2” looking for more legroom or who have narrower rooms. |
| Alternate Name | Eastern King Mattress | Western King Mattress |
As you can see, both mattresses offer ample sleeping space, but in different ways. When choosing between these two, it’s essential to consider your room dimensions, your height, and your preferences for sleeping space.
Length vs. Width: What’s the Real Difference?
A California King mattress, at 84 inches long, is roughly the same length as a standard door frame, which typically measures around 80 to 84 inches. Imagine standing a door upright next to your bed—if you’re taller than that, you’ll appreciate the extra length a California King offers. On the other hand, a standard King mattress, at 80 inches long, is closer to the length of a compact car or a large dining table. For many, this length is more than enough, but taller sleepers may find themselves needing those extra few inches.
The King mattress, at 76 inches wide, provides nearly the same width as a standard loveseat sofa, offering more than enough space for two people to spread out comfortably. If you’re picturing how it fits in your room, think of the King mattress taking up about as much width as two single beds placed side-by-side. In comparison, a California King’s 72-inch width is a little closer to a queen-sized bed, offering slightly less elbow room but still providing ample space for couples who prefer to sleep a bit closer.
If your bedroom measures around 12 feet by 14 feet, a King mattress will fill up much of the width of the room, leaving a cozy amount of space for nightstands or additional furniture. Picture the King mattress as taking up the majority of a standard guest bedroom. Meanwhile, a California King, being narrower, will fit lengthwise along the longest wall of a similarly sized room, leaving more walkway space around the sides, especially in narrower bedrooms.
Which Is Right for You: King or California King?
Now that you know the differences between a King and California King mattress, it’s time to decide which one fits your needs best. While both offer plenty of space and comfort, the choice ultimately comes down to your preferences, room layout, and sleeping habits. Here are the key factors you’ll want to consider:
- Sleeper height: If you or your partner are taller than six feet, a California King might be the better option. The added length ensures that your feet won’t dangle off the edge, allowing for a more comfortable sleep.
- How closely couples like to sleep together: For couples who prefer extra room to spread out, a King mattress offers more width, making it easier to get a good night’s rest without bumping into each other. On the other hand, couples who enjoy sleeping closer may find the narrower California King cozier.
- Room dimensions and other furniture: Before choosing a mattress, measure your bedroom to ensure the bed won’t dominate the space. A King mattress is best suited for larger rooms, while a California King can fit well in narrower rooms without feeling cramped.
- Design options: Interior designers often suggest using a King mattress in master bedrooms with floor space exceeding 12 feet by 12 feet. For narrower rooms or spaces designed with a minimalist look in mind, they recommend a California King to maintain balance without feeling overcrowded.
- Price: Keep in mind that the cost of each mattress, along with its bedding and accessories, can vary. While King mattresses tend to be more budget-friendly, California Kings often come with a higher price tag due to their less common dimensions.
Let’s look at a few hypotheticals. Imagine you and your partner both love spreading out in bed, especially when your kids or pets like to jump in on Sunday mornings. A King mattress is perfect for creating that “all are welcome” space without compromising comfort. Or, if you’re setting up your guest room or master bedroom and have ample floor space, a King mattress makes an inviting centerpiece that encourages relaxation.
If you or your partner are on the taller side and often find your feet hanging over the edge of standard beds, then a California King could be your perfect match. Think of it as the long, narrow option for the couple who doesn’t want to feel confined. And if you have a bedroom that’s longer than it is wide, a California King fits seamlessly into the space without making it feel crowded.
Ready to Upgrade Your Sleep Space?
Whether you’re looking for more width, extra length, or simply a comfortable upgrade, both King and California King mattresses offer excellent options. At Coleman Furniture, you’ll find a wide range of high-quality brands to choose from. Explore our collection to find the perfect King size bed or California King size bed and enjoy a more restful night’s sleep in style.