The American garage has become more than just a place to park, but also a storage area, workspace, or a combination of both. In this guide, we’ll walk you through common garage sizes and dimensions, smart design tips, and how to make the most of it for years to come.
Average Garage Dimensions
If you want to design a perfect garage, knowing the average dimensions can be a great place to start. Regardless if it’s for one car, two cars, or up to four, standard garage sizes should give you plenty of room for parking, storing your vehicles, and adding things like shelves or a workbench.
One-Car Garage Dimensions
One of the most common single-car garage sizes is 12 feet wide by 20 feet deep, providing enough space for most sedans or small SUVs. However, if you want extra storage space or more convenience to move around an open car door, for example, you’ll definitely need larger garage dimensions:
- 12×22 feet (264 sq. ft.): Provides room to install shelves or a workbench.
- 14×24 feet (336 sq. ft.): Ideal for storing tools, bicycles, or gardening supplies alongside your vehicle.
Own a compact car? The garage depth can be as short as 18 feet, but you don’t want to cut it too close. Leave enough room for maneuverability.
Two-Car Garage Dimensions
The average garage size for two vehicles is 18 feet wide by 20 feet deep (360 sq. ft.). This is ideal for most families or if you own multiple vehicles. It accommodates two cars with minimal storage. To make the space more functional, consider these sizes:
- 20×20 feet (400 sq. ft.): Adds room for better vehicle spacing.
- 22×22 feet (484 sq. ft.): Allows for additional storage space like shelving.
When planning for a two-car space, remember the standard width of vehicles (about 6-7 feet) and have a margin of at least 2-3 feet on either side for walking paths or opening doors.
Three-Car Garage Dimensions
For households with multiple vehicles or recreational equipment, a three-car garage is best for flexibility, storage, and more. Typical garage sizes start at 32 feet wide by 22 feet deep (704 sq. ft.). These dimensions can make your space more versatile:
- 36×24 feet (864 sq. ft.): Provides plenty of space for a workbench or extra storage.
- 36×28 feet (1,008 sq. ft.): Can accommodate larger vehicles like SUVs or trucks, along with extra space for a small workshop.
Three-car garage sizes are also great for those who want to create custom-built garages with flexibility for future growth, which can be used for vehicle storage and hobbies simultaneously.
Four-Car Garage Dimensions
A four-car garage is best if you need enough parking space for multiple drivers or vehicles, as well as areas for tools and hobbies. The average garage size starts at 40 feet wide by 24 feet deep (960 sq. ft.), but can be expanded based on your needs:
- 44×30 feet (1,320 sq. ft.): Perfect for larger families or homeowners who need a storage area for recreational vehicles or boats.
- 48×32 feet (1,536 sq. ft.): Adds more room for a workshop, gym, or even a home office.
These are highly customizable and best if you’re looking to maximize all available space while retaining utility and aesthetics.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Garage Size
Based on the standard garage sizes, you can create more than just a place to leave your car but a multi-functional space that accounts for hobbies, equipment, and extra room for tools. Here’s what you should consider when deciding on the most suitable size for your garage.
Number and Type of Vehicles
Choosing garage sizes starts with a simple count: how many cars do you have now, and will that change in the next few years? Add up the vehicle sizes. Standard sedans are about 15 feet long, while SUVs and trucks often reach 20 feet. Parking bigger cars? Go for deeper spaces to avoid cramping. And don’t forget to add some space to comfortably open car doors so that you can get in and out of the car inside the garage!
Storage Needs
Your garage can double as a storage area, housing everything from lawn equipment to bicycles to holiday decorations. Many homeowners even convert it to an entertainment area for special occasions, storing anything from gaming consoles and chairs to drum sets.
To make sure you can install wall-mounted shelves, ceiling racks, or other space for storage, you’ll need a wider or deeper space. Adding just 4-6 feet in depth or width should be enough to account for both parking and storage.
Garage Door Size and Height Considerations
Standard doors are 8 feet wide for single-car and 16 feet wide for two-car garages. Heights usually reach 7 feet, but if you plan to park an SUV, truck, or something with a roof rack, you should probably increase the height to about 9 or 10 feet for better clearance.
Attached vs. Detached Garages
Attached garages give easy access to your home, which makes them best for bad weather. Detached garages, on the other hand, provide flexibility for customized layouts and storage areas. Your choice should reflect how you plan to use the space and your long-term goals.
Pros and Cons of Each Type
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Design and Accessibility Considerations
An attached garage complements your home’s architecture, while a detached garage can be designed based on what you want it to be used for other than parking. For example, a detached unit may include insulated walls or skylights for a workshop setup. However, it would be ideal to install a covered walkway for convenience if it’s located far from your home.
Extended Dimensions for Workshops or Storage Space
It’s much easier to design additional space in a detached garage. An attached one, on the other hand, can be limiting for further expansions or remodeling projects, leaving you with a lot less storage or a smaller working area.
Multi-Functional Spaces
With thoughtful design, your parking space can become a gym, an art studio, or even a home office. When it comes to detached vs. attached constructions, accessing such areas may be easier when they are right next to the main house. However, detached designs give more flexibility here. If you add insulation, proper lighting, and ventilation, these spaces become comfortable and practical year-round.
Conclusion: Customizing Your Garage
Customization lets you create a space that perfectly fits your lifestyle. Additional space, workshops, or multipurpose areas can turn a basic garage into a practical and efficient extension of your home. With thoughtful planning and a focus on your future needs, you can design a garage that stays functional and versatile for years to come.
Ready to transform your space? Contact Renuity today!
FAQs
What Is the Most Common Garage Size?
The most common garage size is 18×20 feet. These dimensions are ideal for storing two cars.
What Are the Standard Dimensions for a One-Car Garage?
The average garage size for one vehicle typically measures 12×20 feet, but can range from 10×18 to 14×24 feet for added function.
How Much Space Do I Need for a Truck or SUV?
We recommend at least 12 feet in width and 22 feet in depth to park a larger vehicle comfortably.
Are There Recommended Dimensions for Storing Tools and Equipment in a Garage?
Adding 4-6 feet to standard garage dimensions allows for shelving, tool benches, and equipment storage without making the space too crowded.
What Is the Typical Garage Door Height?
Garage doors are usually 7 feet high, but 9-10 feet is ideal for bigger cars or overhead storage.
Can I Convert My Garage into a Living Space?
Yes! Insulation, flooring upgrades, and lighting can transform your space into a home office, gym, or guest room. Always check local zoning regulations before starting.
