The California King bed has a reputation that often exceeds the actual understanding most people have of it. Many shoppers assume it is simply the biggest bed you can buy, but that is not quite the story. A Cal King is actually narrower than a standard King, trading width for extra length. That distinction matters more than you might think, especially if you are tall, share a bed with a partner, or are trying to fit a large mattress into a room that is longer than it is wide. In this guide, we will walk through the real dimensions, the honest pros and cons, and help you figure out whether a California King bed is the right choice for your bedroom.
Quick Answer
A California King bed measures 72 inches wide by 84 inches long (6 feet by 7 feet). It is 4 inches narrower and 4 inches longer than a standard King (76" x 80"). Cal Kings are best for tall sleepers, typically those 6'2" and above, and for narrower bedrooms. They are less common in Canada, which means sheets, frames, and accessories can be harder to find and often cost more.
What Exactly Is a California King Bed?
The California King, sometimes called the "Cal King" or "Western King," is a mattress size that prioritizes length over width. At 72 inches wide and 84 inches long, it provides 6,048 square inches of sleeping surface. For comparison, a standard King (also called an "Eastern King") offers 6,080 square inches at 76 inches wide and 80 inches long.
That means the Cal King actually has less total sleeping area than a standard King. The difference is small, only 32 square inches, but the shape of that sleeping space is what matters. Those extra 4 inches of length can make a meaningful difference for tall individuals whose feet hang off the end of a regular King.
The name reportedly originated in Los Angeles in the 1960s, when a furniture manufacturer began producing oversized mattresses for the spacious bedrooms common in California homes. The longer, narrower shape suited the architecture of the time, and the name stuck.
If you are exploring how all mattress sizes compare, our complete bed size chart breaks down every standard option from Twin to Cal King.
California King vs Standard King: The Real Differences
This is where the confusion lives for most shoppers. Here is a straightforward comparison:
| Feature | California King | Standard King |
|---|---|---|
| Width | 72 inches (6 ft) | 76 inches (6 ft 4 in) |
| Length | 84 inches (7 ft) | 80 inches (6 ft 8 in) |
| Total Area | 6,048 sq in | 6,080 sq in |
| Best For | Tall sleepers, narrow rooms | Couples wanting width, standard rooms |
| Sheet Availability | Less common, especially in Canada | Widely available everywhere |
| Typical Price | 5-15% more than standard King | Standard pricing |
| Accessories | Fewer options, often special order | Abundant selection |
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The 4-inch width difference between these sizes does not sound like much on paper, but it adds up when two people share the bed. Each sleeper in a standard King gets 38 inches of personal width, roughly the same as sleeping alone on a Twin XL. In a Cal King, each person gets 36 inches. That is closer to what you would have on a narrow Twin mattress. For couples who like their personal space, those 2 inches per person can feel noticeable.
The Sleep Science of Body Length
Sleep researchers have found that sleepers need at least 6 to 8 inches of mattress length beyond their height for comfortable positioning. This accounts for pillow placement and the natural tendency to stretch during sleep. A person who is 6'2" (74 inches) needs a mattress that is at least 80 inches long for basic comfort and ideally 82 inches or more. The standard King's 80-inch length cuts it close for taller individuals, while the Cal King's 84-inch length provides a comfortable margin up to about 6'6".
Who Should Consider a California King Bed?
A Cal King is not the right choice for everyone, and we think it is important to be honest about that. Here are the situations where it genuinely makes sense:
Tall Sleepers (6'2" and Above)
This is the primary reason the Cal King exists. If you are 6'2" or taller, you have probably experienced the frustration of your feet dangling off the mattress or pressing against the footboard. At 84 inches long, the Cal King provides 4 extra inches of length compared to the standard King, and that can be the difference between comfortable sleep and waking up with cold feet hanging over the edge.
People with Narrow but Long Bedrooms
Bedroom shapes vary, especially in older homes. If your room is long and narrow, a Cal King's proportions might actually fit the space better than a wider standard King. The narrower profile leaves more room for nightstands on either side without crowding the walking paths around the bed.
Solo Sleepers Who Want Length
If you sleep alone and want a large, luxurious bed, the slightly narrower width of a Cal King will not matter to you. The extra length gives you plenty of room to stretch out, and you still have far more width than a Queen (60 inches).
When a Cal King Might Not Be the Best Fit
If you and a partner both value personal sleeping space, the standard King's extra 4 inches of width will serve you better. If neither of you is particularly tall, there is no real advantage to the extra length, and you would be giving up width for nothing. Also, if you live in Canada and want an easy time finding bedding and accessories, the standard King will save you time, money, and frustration.
California King Beds in Canada: What You Need to Know
Here is something that catches many Canadian shoppers off guard: Cal King beds are significantly less common in Canada than they are in the United States. This has practical consequences that are worth understanding before you commit.
Availability of Mattresses
Not every mattress manufacturer offers their models in Cal King. Many Canadian mattress brands focus on standard sizes (Twin, Double, Queen, King) and treat Cal King as a specialty option. You may have fewer choices in terms of comfort levels, materials, and price points. At Mattress Miracle in Brantford, we can help you navigate what is available and find quality Cal King options that meet your needs.
The Sheet and Bedding Challenge
This is probably the biggest ongoing inconvenience of owning a Cal King in Canada. Cal King sheets are not interchangeable with standard King sheets. A King fitted sheet is designed for a 76" x 80" mattress and will be too wide and too short for a Cal King. Conversely, Cal King sheets at 72" x 84" will be too narrow and too long for a standard King.
In Canadian retail stores, Cal King sheets are often limited to one or two options on the shelf, if they are stocked at all. You will likely end up ordering online for most of your bedding needs, which means you cannot feel the fabric before buying and may face return shipping costs if the quality is not what you expected.
Sheet Shopping Tip for Cal King Owners
When shopping for Cal King sheets in Canada, always check the dimensions listed on the package rather than relying on the size label alone. Some brands label their sheets "King/Cal King" but only fit one size properly. Look for fitted sheets with deep pockets (at least 14 inches) to ensure they stay secure on the mattress. Building a small stockpile when you find sheets you like is also a practical strategy, since your preferred option may not always be in stock.
Frames and Accessories
Bed frames, headboards, mattress protectors, and weighted blankets all come in specific sizes. Cal King options exist but the selection is thinner. Adjustable bed frames in Cal King can be particularly hard to source in Canada. Plan to do more research and potentially spend more when furnishing around a Cal King mattress.
Price Differences
Cal King mattresses typically cost 5 to 15 percent more than their standard King counterparts from the same manufacturer. The price increase reflects the specialty nature of the size and lower production volumes. Sheets and accessories follow the same pattern, often with an even larger markup due to limited availability in the Canadian market.
Room Size and Setup for a California King
A California King bed is a large piece of furniture, and your bedroom needs to accommodate it comfortably. Here are the practical space requirements.
Minimum Room Size
We recommend a minimum room size of 12 feet by 12 feet for a Cal King. This provides enough space for the bed itself, two nightstands, and walking clearance of about 24 inches on each side and at the foot of the bed. In a room smaller than this, the bed can dominate the space and make daily activities like making the bed, opening drawers, or walking around feel cramped.
Ideal Room Proportions
Because the Cal King is longer and narrower than a standard King, it pairs well with rooms that share similar proportions. A room that is 12 feet wide and 14 or 15 feet long is an excellent fit. The bed will look proportional to the space, and you will have ample room for other furniture like a dresser or reading chair.
Measuring Your Bedroom for a Cal King
Before purchasing, measure your bedroom and map out the layout on paper or with a free room planning app. Account for the bed frame, which typically adds 2 to 4 inches to the mattress dimensions on each side. Do not forget door swing clearance, closet access, and heating vents. A Cal King with a standard frame will occupy roughly 76 to 80 inches of width (frame included) and 88 to 90 inches of length. Measure twice, as returning a mattress is considerably more hassle than returning a pair of shoes.
For more guidance on setting up a bedroom that promotes good rest, our sleep sanctuary bedroom guide covers layout, lighting, and temperature considerations.
How to Decide Between a Cal King and a Standard King
Making this decision comes down to a few honest questions. Here is a framework we share with customers at Mattress Miracle.
Ask Yourself These Questions
- How tall are you (and your partner)? If neither of you is over 6'1", a standard King's 80-inch length is likely sufficient. The extra length of a Cal King will go unused.
- Do you share the bed? Couples who both sleep in the bed nightly will generally appreciate the standard King's extra width more than the Cal King's extra length, unless one partner is quite tall.
- What shape is your bedroom? Measure the room. If it is long and narrow, the Cal King may fit the space better. If the room is square or wide, the standard King is usually the better geometric match.
- How much do you care about bedding options? If you like variety in your sheets and duvet covers, and you prefer to shop in person at local stores, the standard King will make your life easier, especially in Canada.
- What is your budget for the long term? Factor in not just the mattress cost but the ongoing expense of Cal King bedding, protectors, and replacement accessories over the life of the mattress.
What This Means for You
For most couples in Canada, a standard King is the more practical choice. It offers slightly more sleeping area, much better accessory availability, and lower long-term costs. The Cal King earns its place when height is a genuine factor or when bedroom proportions favor the longer, narrower shape. Neither choice is wrong. It just depends on what matters most to your sleep and your space.
If you are still weighing your options, our guide on what makes a good mattress in Canada can help you think through the broader picture beyond just size.
Frequently Asked Questions About California King Beds
Is a California King bigger than a regular King?
Not exactly. A California King is longer (84 inches vs 80 inches) but narrower (72 inches vs 76 inches). The total sleeping area of a Cal King is actually 32 square inches less than a standard King. It is a different shape rather than a bigger bed.
Can I use King sheets on a California King bed?
No. King and California King sheets are not interchangeable. A King fitted sheet is designed for a 76" x 80" mattress, while a Cal King fitted sheet is made for a 72" x 84" mattress. Using the wrong size will result in a poor fit with bunching or pulling at the corners.
Is a California King bed good for couples?
It can work for couples, but a standard King provides 4 more inches of width, giving each person more personal space. A Cal King is the better choice for couples only when one or both partners are tall enough to benefit from the extra length (generally 6'2" or taller).
How big does my room need to be for a California King?
A minimum room size of 12 feet by 12 feet is recommended. This allows for nightstands on each side and at least 2 feet of walking space around the bed. Rooms that are 12 by 14 feet or larger are ideal, particularly if you want to include other furniture.
Are California King beds easy to find in Canada?
Cal King beds are available in Canada but are much less common than standard King mattresses. Fewer manufacturers offer Cal King options, and finding sheets, frames, and accessories in Canadian retail stores can be challenging. Expect to do more online shopping and pay a modest premium compared to standard King products.
Try a California King Bed In Person at Mattress Miracle
Reading about mattress sizes is helpful, but there is no substitute for lying down on one yourself. At Mattress Miracle, Brad and Dorothy have been helping Brantford-area families find the right mattress since 1987. Whether you are leaning toward a Cal King or still deciding between sizes, we can walk you through the options honestly and without pressure.
Visit us at 441 1/2 West Street, Brantford or call 519-770-0001 to ask us anything before you come in.
Store Hours:
Monday to Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Thursday and Friday: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday: 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Sources
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- Verhaert V, Haex B, De Wilde T, et al. Ergonomics in bed design: the effect of spinal alignment on sleep parameters. Ergonomics. 2011;54(2):169-178. DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2010.538725
- Okamoto-Mizuno K, Mizuno K. Effects of thermal environment on sleep and circadian rhythm. J Physiol Anthropol. 2012;31(1):14. DOI: 10.1186/1880-6805-31-14
- Cary D, Briffa K, McKenna L. Identifying relationships between sleep posture and non-specific spinal symptoms in adults: A scoping review. BMJ Open. 2019;9(6):e027633. DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-027633