The standard door width for an interior door in residential construction is typically 30 inches (76.2 cm), though common sizes can range from 24 inches to 36 inches. Exterior front entry doors are most frequently 36 inches (91.4 cm) wide.

Key points for quick reference:

• Standard Interior (Residential): 30 inches (most common), with 24″, 28″, and 32″ also widely used.
• Standard Exterior (Front Door): 36 inches.
• Standard Height: 80 inches (for both interior and exterior).

What is Standard Door Widths

Standard width standard door width refers to the most common and widely accepted measurements used in residential and commercial construction. These widths exist so builders, homeowners, and manufacturers can work with consistent sizes.

Exist the goal is simple every building should be safe, functional, and accessible. Standard widths also help keep construction costs predictable.

Where Standard Door Widths Come From

Even if your home isn’t required to meet ADA rules, accessibility guidelines influence design trends. You might think codes set the rules, but real life plays a big role too. Over the years, door widths have increased because our furniture has gotten bigger, appliances have grown wider, and more families want “aging-in-place” design.

Standard Interior Door Widths

Interior doors commonly range from 24″ to 36″. A lot of older homes still use 28″ or 30″ doors, but modern homes usually go wider. If you’re building or renovating, a 32″ or 36″ interior door is the smartest choice. They look better, feel roomier, and are much more future-proof.

Interior Door Widths by Room

• Bedroom Doors: Most bedrooms use 30″ or 32″ doors. If you have kids, pets, or large furniture, 32″ feels much more comfortable.
• Bathroom Doors: Bathrooms often get stuck with narrow doors sometimes only 28″. But if you want wheelchair or walker accessibility later, choose 32″ instead.
• Hallway Doors: Hallways can feel cramped, and wider doors help. Builders often use 32″, but 36″ gives you a more open, modern feel.

Standard Exterior Door Widths

Your main entrance almost always needs a 36-inch door. Anything smaller makes moving items in and out nearly impossible. Wider exterior doors make a home look more upscale, increase curb appeal, and help with accessibility. Even if you don’t need accessibility today, your future buyers might appreciate it.

ADA Compliant Door Widths

To be ADA-compliant, a door must provide a 32-inch clear opening. That usually requires a 36-inch door slab.

You might think “I don’t need ADA compliance,” but wider doors make life easier for strollers, wheelchairs, walkers, and even pets.

Closet Door Widths Small Doors With Big Difference

Closet doors can be narrower because they don’t need to fit people passing through. Typical widths include 24″ to 30″.

Choosing Based on Door Style:
• Swinging closet doors: 28″–30″
• Bifold doors: usually 24″ or 30″
• Sliding (bypass) doors: flexible, but each panel commonly 24″–36″

How Door Thickness Affects Width

Most interior doors are 1⅜ inches thick, while exterior doors are 1¾ inches thick. Why does that matter?

A thicker door needs more clearance. If your walls, trim, or hinges aren’t installed correctly, a supposedly “standard” door might not fit the opening you expected.

Door Width vs. Clear Opening

A 36-inch door does not give you 36 inches of walk-through space. Hinges, frames, and trim reduce the opening.

If you need a 32-inch clear opening for ADA compliance, you must choose a 36-inch door. Many competitor blogs forget to explain this clearly.

How to Measure Door Width

When measuring an existing door, measure edge to edge of the door slab. Don’t include the frame.

If you’re installing a new door, measure the rough opening, which is usually 2″–2½” wider than the door itself.

Common Door Width Mistakes

• Choosing a Door That’s Too Narrow: Many homeowners regret choosing narrow doors to “save space.” The truth? You lose more convenience than you gain.
• Forgetting About Future Needs: Think about strollers, wheelchairs, walkers, or aging parents. Wider doors keep your home flexible for life changes.

Door Widths for Small Houses

In tiny homes or small apartments, door swings can be a challenge. But that doesn’t mean you should choose narrow doors. Pocket doors, sliding doors, or barn doors let you use standard widths without sacrificing floor space.

How Door Width Affects Home Value

Homes with wider interior and entry doors often feel more modern and comfortable. Buyers notice these details, even if they can’t explain why. Wider doors better accessibility, smoother furniture moves, and a more open feel. It’s a triple win for resale.

Door Widths and Modern Design Trends

Modern homes are shifting toward wider openings and fewer narrow doorways. Even hallways are getting wider.

Future Trends:
• Wider door frames for natural light
• Slim-frame glass interior doors
• Oversized pivot doors for modern exteriors

These are details most competitor blogs skip so including them makes your content more useful and future-focused.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re building, buying, or remodeling, knowing standard door widths helps you avoid expensive mistakes and future headaches. Use this guide to measure your spaces, choose the right widths, and design a home that’s comfortable, accessible, and future-ready.