A small bedroom is typically 70 to 100 square feet. Most building codes require a bedroom to have at least 70 square feet to qualify as a legal bedroom for one occupant, while many homes have small bedrooms ranging from 80 to 100 square feet.
What Is Considered a Small Bedroom?
A small bedroom usually measures:
| Room Size | Square Feet | Typical Dimensions |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum legal bedroom | 70 sq ft | 7 ft × 10 ft |
| Small bedroom | 70–100 sq ft | 8 ft × 10 ft, 9 ft × 10 ft, 10 ft × 10 ft |
| Medium bedroom | 100–200 sq ft | 10 ft × 12 ft, 12 ft × 12 ft |
| Large bedroom | 200+ sq ft | 14 ft × 14 ft or larger |
Common Small Bedroom Sizes
Here are some of the most common dimensions:
| Dimensions | Square Feet |
|---|---|
| 7 × 10 ft | 70 sq ft |
| 8 × 10 ft | 80 sq ft |
| 9 × 10 ft | 90 sq ft |
| 10 × 10 ft | 100 sq ft |
| 8 × 12 ft | 96 sq ft |
| 9 × 11 ft | 99 sq ft |
How to Calculate Bedroom Square Footage
Use this simple formula:
Square Feet = Length × Width
For example:
- 8 ft × 10 ft = 80 sq ft
- 9 ft × 10 ft = 90 sq ft
- 10 ft × 10 ft = 100 sq ft
- 8 ft × 12 ft = 96 sq ft
Measure the room’s length and width in feet, then multiply them together.
Is a 10 × 10 Bedroom Small?
Yes. A 10 × 10 bedroom (100 square feet) is generally considered a small bedroom. It can comfortably fit:
- Twin or full-size bed
- Small dresser
- Nightstand
- Compact desk (if arranged efficiently)
A queen bed may fit, but it will leave less walking space.
Is a 12 × 12 Bedroom Small?
No. A 12 × 12 bedroom (144 square feet) is usually considered a medium-sized bedroom. It offers enough space for:
- Queen or king-size bed
- Two nightstands
- Dresser
- Desk or seating area
What Can Fit in a Small Bedroom?
Depending on the room size:
70–80 sq ft
- Twin bed
- Small dresser
- One nightstand
80–100 sq ft
- Twin or full bed
- Dresser
- Desk
- Small wardrobe
100 sq ft
- Full or queen bed
- Two nightstands
- Dresser
- Limited storage furniture
Tips to Make a Small Bedroom Feel Bigger
- Choose light-colored paint.
- Use mirrors to reflect light.
- Install wall-mounted shelves.
- Select furniture with built-in storage.
- Keep clutter to a minimum.
- Use under-bed storage bins.
- Maximize natural lighting.
Common Mistakes When Measuring a Bedroom
- Measuring in inches instead of feet.
- Forgetting to measure wall-to-wall.
- Including closet space when it shouldn’t be counted.
- Ignoring room alcoves or recessed areas.
- Rounding measurements too early.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum square footage for a legal bedroom?
Most residential building codes require at least 70 square feet with a minimum horizontal dimension of 7 feet.
Is 80 square feet enough for a bedroom?
Yes. An 80-square-foot bedroom is small but can comfortably accommodate one person with space-saving furniture.
Is a 100-square-foot bedroom considered small?
Yes. A 100-square-foot bedroom is commonly classified as a small bedroom, although it provides more flexibility than the minimum legal size.
How do I measure my bedroom’s square footage?
Measure the room’s length and width in feet and multiply them together. For example, 10 × 10 = 100 square feet.
Can a queen bed fit in a small bedroom?
Yes, a queen bed can fit in a 100-square-foot bedroom, but it may reduce walking space and limit additional furniture placement.
Conclusion
A small bedroom is generally 70 to 100 square feet, with 10 × 10 feet (100 sq ft) being one of the most common sizes. Knowing your bedroom’s square footage helps you choose the right furniture, maximize storage, and create a comfortable layout. Whether you’re furnishing a new room, buying furniture, or planning a renovation, measuring your space accurately ensures the best use of every square foot.
