King Size Bed Frame Dimensions

A queen size bed can be a comfortable size for many couples. However, after a while, a queen mattress may start to feel inadequate. Maybe your children frequently climb into bed with you, or your partner is an active sleeper. Whatever the reason, upgrading to a king size bed can help you both find a good night’s sleep.

Once you decide to purchase a king size mattress, you will likely need a new bed frame. A stable bed frame is essential since they support you and protect the mattress. Plus, a king frame can set the decorative tone for a larger room. We designed this king bed frame size guide to help you find the right size and style of frame for your bedroom.

Dimensions of a King Size Bed Frame

A standard king size mattress, or an “eastern king,” measures 76 inches wide and 80 inches long. This size gives each sleeper 38 inches of personal space.

King-size bed frames measure roughly a half-inch to 2 inches wider and longer than the mattress itself. Therefore, most king size bed frames, including a California king bed frame will measure between 76.5 to 78 inches wide and 80.5 to 82 inches long. These dimensions may vary slightly depending on the type of bed frame.

A king-size headboard will be a little wider than the bed frame, 79 to 81 inches wide. The height of the headboard can range between 48 inches to 64 inches.

King Size Bed Frame Dimensions

Variations of a King Size Bed

In addition to their standard measurements, king size mattresses are available in several variations. You may be familiar with a California king, but what about a Wyoming or a Texas king? Read on to discover the dimensions of these king variations and the bed frame that will work best for each.

California King Bed

A California king mattress is the most popular variation and is readily available with most online brands. This size was first introduced in Los Angeles, California, in the 1960s. You may also find these beds labeled as a “Western king.” A Cal king mattress measures 72 inches wide by 84 inches long—this is 4 inches narrower but 4 inches longer than a standard king mattress. This extra length makes Cal kings ideal for taller sleepers in need of more legroom.

If you opt for a California king size bed, be sure your bed frame can accommodate the longer size. In some cases, extension panels can be used to lengthen existing king size bed frames.

Consider opting for a California King if:

You Need Extra Legroom: If you’re taller and need more space for your feet, a California King offers additional length.

Your Bedroom is Narrow: A California King is ideal for bedrooms that are longer and narrower rather than wide.

You Value Personal Space: If you prefer more personal space at night rather than the close quarters of a queen mattress, a California King is a great option.

Split King Bed

When it comes to mattress firmness, couples tend to have different preferences. To accommodate each sleeper’s individual needs, many people opt for a split king size mattress. This size is also popular because it can be paired with a split adjustable base. A split base lets each sleeper adjust the head and leg portion of the bed to find the healthiest sleep position possible.

A split king is simply two twin XL mattresses (38 inches wide by 80 inches long) placed side by side to create a standard 76 inch by 80 inches king mattress. You can also use a split king mattress on most modern king size bed frames if you choose not to opt for an adjustable frame.

There are several benefits to choosing a split king bed, including:

Minimizing Motion Transfer: A split king isolates motion, ensuring that your partner isn’t disturbed even if you’re on different schedules or if one of you tends to toss and turn at night.

Customizable Comfort: Couples with differing preferences for mattress firmness or support can customize their side of the bed without compromising their partner’s comfort.

Versatility: A split king can also serve as two separate twin XL mattresses, providing an additional bed at home if needed.

Oversized King Beds

Although California kings are the most common king variation, three other king mattresses are longer and wider than a standard king. These sizes are not readily available but can be found with some online specialty retailers. Bed frames for these sizes can be difficult to find but may be available to purchase with the mattress.

Wyoming King

A Wyoming king size mattress measures 84 inches wide by 84 inches long. These beds have the same length as a California king but are 12 inches wider than a Cal king and 8 inches wider than a standard king. A Wyoming king is perfect for families to co-sleep with 1 to 2 small children.

A Wyoming King is an excellent choice if:

You Co-Sleep with a Child: The extra space in a Wyoming King is perfect for couples who sleep with their child.

You Have a Standard-Size Primary Suite: For couples with a standard-sized primary bedroom who want a bit more space, a Wyoming King provides a comfortable upgrade.

Your Bedroom is Large and Square: In a spacious, square-shaped primary suite, a Wyoming King can serve as a stunning centerpiece.

Texas King

A Texas king or a “grand king,” measures 80 inches wide by 98 inches long. This size is 4 inches wider and 18 inches longer than a standard king mattress. When compared to a Wyoming king, Texas kings are 4 inches narrower but 14 inches longer.

A Texas King is the right choice if:

You’re Tall: If you’re over six feet tall, a Texas King provides the length you need for a comfortable sleep.

You Share Your Bed with Pets: If your pets sleep at the foot of the bed, a Texas King offers ample space for everyone.

Alberta King 

An Alberta King mattress measures 96 by 96 inches, or 8 feet by 8 feet. Therefore, the bed frame for an Alberta King should be at least 97 by 97 inches.

Consider an Alberta King if:

You Have a Large Family: If your family enjoys sleeping together, an Alberta King provides the necessary space.

You Have Large Dogs: For those with several large dogs, the Alberta King offers plenty of room for everyone.

You and Your Partner Need Extra Space: If both you and your partner are larger individuals who prefer extra room, the Alberta King is ideal.

Alaskan King

An Alaskan king bed is the largest mattress on the market—measuring 108 inches wide by 108 inches long. These beds are big enough for two adults and 3 to 4 small children to sleep comfortably. An Alaskan king is a great size for families who want to co-sleep without feeling cramped and uncomfortable.

An Alaskan King might be the perfect bed for you if:

Your Bed is a Multi-Purpose Space: If your bed doubles as a fun space for family get-togethers and slumber parties, an Alaskan King offers the space you need.

You Co-Sleep with Multiple Children: For families with multiple children who sleep in the same bed, an Alaskan King ensures everyone has enough room.

Types of King Size Bed Frames

As you shop, you will come across several different types of bed frames. When deciding which is right for you, keep in mind the size of your room and decor.

Panel Frames

Panel frames are standard and easy to find. They consist of two side panels, a headboard, and a footboard. The foundation of a panel frame is made of wood or metal slats that support the mattress and a foundation if needed.

Platform Frames

Platform and panel frames are similar, but platform beds can have a solid wood or slatted foundation. These frames do not need an additional foundation to support the mattress. Instead, the mattress can be placed directly on the base of the bed frame.

Sleigh Beds

Sleigh beds are made of wood and have a headboard and footboard that resemble a horse-drawn sleigh. These frames often have decoratively curved or scrolled woodwork on the frame and a slatted foundation to support the mattress. In a master bedroom, a sleigh bed creates an exciting and dramatic centerpiece.

Four Poster Bed Frames

Four-poster types of bed frames have four large pillars at each corner. On a king size four-poster bed, these pillars will be roughly 80 inches tall. These frames are often made of metal or wood and have a decorative headboard and footboard.

Canopy Bed Frames

Similar to a four-poster bed frame, a canopy has four tall pillars, a headboard, and a footboard. However, a canopy bed has four additional slats that connect each pillar at the top. These slats create a square shape canopy at the top of the frame. Curtains or fabric can hang from the canopy for decorative purposes.

Who Should Opt for a King Size Bed?

There are several compelling reasons to consider upgrading to a larger bed. Perhaps you love the freedom of stretching out fully without worrying about limbs hanging over the edge, or you frequently share your sleeping space with a partner, children, and pets and want to avoid feeling crowded.

Here are a few more reasons why a King bed or even a larger mattress might be the right choice for you:

You’re a bigger individual – If standard-sized beds leave you with your feet dangling off the edge, or the narrower width makes you feel confined, a King or oversized mattress can provide the space you need to feel fully supported.

You sleep with extra bedding – If you enjoy surrounding yourself with pillows and other bedding accessories, a larger mattress gives you the space to keep all your cozy extras without feeling cramped.

You (or your partner) are sensitive to movement – The term “motion isolation” refers to how well a mattress prevents the transfer of movement. On a larger bed, motion is better isolated, so if you or your partner are easily disturbed by each other’s movements during the night, a King could help you both achieve a more restful sleep.

You (or your partner) are restless sleepers – If you or your partner tend to toss and turn, kick, or spread out during the night, a larger bed offers ample room to move around without disturbing the other person.

Your bed doubles as a family space – If your bed often serves as a shared space for multiple family members—whether it’s kids or pets—a King size bed or oversized mattress can provide everyone with the room they need to sleep comfortably without crowding.

Mattress Foundations

Most modern mattresses can be placed directly on the base of the bed frame—they do not need to be paired with a box spring. For adequate support, slats should not be more than 2.75 inches apart. If your bed frame does not have a stable support base, you can add a mattress foundation.

Mattress Foundations

Mattress foundations may be solid or slatted and can be placed in the center of most bed frames. These bases consist of a wood or metal box that is upholstered or covered in a durable fabric. Slats are connected, wrapped in a similar material, and secured inside the box. Some foundations have legs that allow the base to be used as a stand-alone bed frame.

Adjustable Frames

Adjustable bed frames allow sleepers to raise their head and legs during sleep. By elevating the head, the airways open up, and breathing becomes easier—reducing snoring and symptoms of sleep apnea. Elevating the legs helps improve circulation and reduces swelling in the feet and legs.

When the adjustable types of bed frames are split, each person can find a sleep position that fits their specific needs.

Pros and Cons of a King Size Bed Frame

King size mattresses, when combined with a sturdy king bed frame, provide numerous advantages and a few potential disadvantages. However, if a king size bed enhances your sleep quality, the benefits are likely to outweigh the drawbacks.

A king-size bed is an excellent choice for couples, offering ample space for two adults to sleep comfortably without feeling cramped. The generous dimensions allow for plenty of room to move around during the night, making it easier to toss and turn without disturbing your partner.

Additionally, the spaciousness of a king-size bed makes it a versatile option, providing enough support and comfort for sleepers of all sizes. It’s also a practical choice for families with young children or pets who may occasionally share the bed.

However, the size of a king bed comes with a few drawbacks. One of the most significant is the amount of space it occupies in a bedroom. If your bedroom is on the smaller side, a king bed might dominate the room, leaving little space for other furniture.

Another consideration is cost—king-size beds generally come with a higher price tag compared to smaller beds, both in terms of the bed itself and the associated bedding.

Additionally, while a king bed is spacious, it may not be long enough for very tall individuals, particularly those over 6 feet. Finally, the large size of a king bed can make it more challenging to move or transport, although split king options are available as a more manageable alternative.

Key Considerations When Purchasing a King Size Bed Frame

When selecting a standard king size bed frame, it’s important to account for an additional two to five inches of space beyond the width of the mattress. This extra space accommodates the thickness of the headboard, footboard, and side rails.

Additionally, you should consider the frame’s weight capacity and height, as these factors determine the most suitable mattress thickness and weight for your needs.

If you’re drawn to more elaborate designs such as floating platforms, sleigh beds, or frames with built-in shelves and drawers, you’ll need even more room in your bedroom.

For example, floating platform beds are typically wider than other styles, while sleigh beds are longer due to their curved headboards and footboards. However, the mattress space within the frame remains consistent across all king bed frame designs.

a. Availability

While standard king size beds are relatively easy to find, oversized mattresses, along with their bedding and frames, can be more challenging to source. You might need to shop around extensively or even consider custom options to find exactly what you need.

b. Budget Considerations

King size bed frames are available across a wide price range, from as low as $70 to upwards of $4,000. Depending on your budget, you can choose a simple metal bed frame or opt for more luxurious upholstered frames with headboards, footboards, and additional features like shelves and drawers.

As the size of the bed increases, so does the price. The largest mattress size, the Alaskan King, typically costs between $2,500 and $6,000. While it’s essential to invest in a mattress that meets your needs, be prepared to spend at least a few hundred dollars on the mattress itself.

Additionally, if you’re not purchasing a king size platform bed, factor in the cost of a box spring or foundation. Platform beds with slats less than 2.75 inches apart can support a mattress directly, but if the slats are wider or if you choose a different frame type, a box spring or foundation will be necessary.

c. Mobility

A king bed or oversized mattress may not be ideal for those who move frequently, as these larger beds are heavy, difficult to maneuver, and challenging to transport.

d. Number of Sleepers

King beds are typically purchased by couples to comfortably accommodate two adults. However, a king bed can also fit one or two small children or pets. Single sleepers usually don’t require the space a king bed offers, but if you’re single and have the room and budget, a king size bed can transform your bedroom into a luxurious retreat.

e. Height Considerations

For those who are particularly tall or sleep with pets at the foot of the bed, a standard king bed might feel too short. Sleepers over 6 feet tall may find their toes touching the end of the mattress or footboard, especially when using multiple pillows. A California king bed, which offers an additional 4 inches of legroom, may be a more comfortable option.

It’s also important to consider the height of the bed from the floor to the top of the mattress. Bed frames, including king sizes, come in various heights. If you’re tall, select a bed frame height that allows you to get in and out of bed comfortably.

f. Sleeping Preferences

If you or your partner are restless or hot sleepers, or if you simply prefer more space, a larger bed like a king may be the best choice. The more distance you have between each other, the less likely you’ll be disturbed by your partner’s movements.

A split king bed might be an even better option for couples who have different sleep schedules, sleep positions, mattress preferences, or specific sleep disorders. Although split queen beds are available, they are much harder to find.

g. Bedroom Size

When choosing a bed frame, it’s crucial to ensure it fits well in your bedroom. King beds are best suited for rooms measuring at least 12-by-12 feet. If your room is not a perfect square but is at least 144 square feet, positioning the head of your bed against the shorter wall can help maximize walking space.

It’s generally recommended to leave 2 to 3 feet of space around each side and the foot of the bed to allow for furniture placement and easy movement. While you could fit a king bed in an 11-by-11-foot room, doing so would leave little room for additional furniture.

h. Frame Materials and Design

Bed frames come in a variety of materials and designs, with wood, upholstery, and metal being the most common choices. Each material contributes to the overall aesthetic of the bed frame. The exact dimensions of a bed frame can vary depending on the style and brand, but typically, bed frames add 2 to 5 inches to each side of the mattress.

i. Treat Yourself to a Regal Night’s Sleep

There are several factors to consider when choosing the right mattress. If you’re someone who believes that bigger is better, a King size or oversized mattress could be exactly what you’re looking for.

The dimensions of a king size bed frame provide sleepers with an abundance of space, making it ideal for those who co-sleep with partners, children, or pets. These beds are highly adaptable for individuals with varying sleep styles and preferences, offering enough room for each person to stretch out or move freely without disturbing others.

For people who are larger-bodied or have physical limitations that require more space for comfort and ease of movement, a King or oversized bed can offer significantly more support and comfort than traditional bed sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the standard width of a king-size bed frame?

A standard king-size bed frame typically measures between 76.5 to 78 inches wide. This is slightly wider than a standard king-size mattress, which measures 76 inches wide.

What is the largest bed size?

The largest mattress available in the United States is an Alaskan king size. These mattresses measure 108 inches wide by 108 inches long. While they are the biggest bed size, Alaskan kings are often difficult to find and may not be available with most mattress brands. However, they can be purchased through some online specialty retailers.

Are two twin beds the same as a king?

Twin mattresses measure 38 inches wide by 75 inches tall. Therefore, two twin beds would not equal the size of a king bed. However, you can use two twin XL mattresses, which measure 38 inches wide by 80 inches long, to create a standard king bed. These extra-long twin beds are 5 inches longer than a standard twin. This option is often referred to as a split king.

Will a king size bed fit in a 10 by 10 room?

A king size bed will fit in a room that measures 10 feet by 10 feet. However, a king will feel cramped in this room size, making it difficult to move around the room. King beds fit more comfortably in a bedroom size that is at least 12 feet by 12 feet (144 square feet). A larger room will also leave plenty of space for other furniture such as nightstands and dressers.

How Much Larger Should a Bed Frame Be Compared to the Mattress?

You should select a bed frame that matches the size of your mattress. For instance, if you’re buying a king-sized mattress, your bed frame should also be a king size. While the dimensions of the bed frame will add a few inches around the mattress, this isn’t a major concern as long as you know the mattress size fits comfortably within your bedroom.

How Much Room Should I Have in My Bedroom for a King Size Bed?

A king-sized bed is best suited for a bedroom that measures at least 12-by-12 feet, or 144 square feet. Although it’s possible to place a king bed in a 10-by-10-foot bedroom, doing so will leave minimal space for other furniture, making the room feel cramped.

What is the lifespan of a mattress?

Mattresses last anywhere from 7 to 10 years, depending on their materials and construction. Memory foam mattresses and hybrid mattresses tend to last between 8 and 10 years, while latex foam mattresses can last between 12 and 15 years. Innerspring mattresses have the shortest lifespan—these beds often last around 5 to 6 years.

Which Sheets Are Best for a King Size Bed? 

It’s essential to use king-sized sheets for your king bed. However, length and width are not the only factors to consider when choosing sheets—you should also take into account the thickness of your mattress.

Standard sheets are suitable for mattresses up to 12 inches thick. For mattresses that are 12 to 15 inches thick, deep-pocket sheets are recommended, while extra-deep-pocket sheets are necessary for mattresses thicker than 16 inches.

Are King and California King Bed Frames Identical in Size? 

King and California king bed frames differ in size. California king mattresses are 4 inches narrower and 4 inches longer than standard king beds, and bed frames are specifically designed to fit the corresponding mattress size.

It’s not advisable to use a king bed frame for a California king mattress, or vice versa, as the mattress won’t be properly supported, leading to gaps or overhang along the sides.

Are there variations in the width of king-size bed frames?

Yes, the width of a king-size bed frame can vary slightly depending on the style and design of the frame. Some frames may measure up to 79 inches wide.

What size bed should a 6-foot tall person get?

Those who are 6-feet tall will sleep most comfortably on a king mattress, which is 80 inches long. A California king measures 4 inches longer than a standard king and is another popular size for taller individuals. For even more legroom, sleepers can opt for a Texan king, which is 98 inches long. All three of these mattress sizes would be a good choice for someone over 6-feet tall.

For taller sleepers with a small room size, a full XL or a twin XL bed may also be a suitable option. Both of these standard mattress sizes are 80 inches long—giving tall individuals enough space to stretch out their legs.

What is the difference between a king and California king bed frames?

A California King mattress has less overall surface area than a conventional king mattress (also known as a “Eastern King”). A California King is 72 inches broad and 84 inches long. It covers a total area of 6,048 square inches. A regular King-sized mattress measures 76′′ broad by 80′′ long.

Conclusion

Upgrading to a king size mattress may improve the quality of your sleep. You will feel less cramped and be able to relax more fully. To ensure that your new mattress is supporting you correctly, be sure to select the right size bed frame.

If the frame is too big, the mattress may slide around, which can lead to sagging. If the frame is too small, the mattress may press too firmly to the sides of the frame, resulting in indentations. The best fit will leave no more than 2 inches of space between the mattress and the frame.

Once you find the perfect fitting frame, you can rest assured that your mattress is protected and will support you for many years.