How Much Space Do You Need for a Pool Table?

Planning a game room? Making sure your room size is suitable for your pool table is key to enjoying a seamless game. Too small, and you'll hit walls with your cue. Too big, and you waste space and money.

This guide gives you exact room measurements for every standard pool table size, including cue clearance. No guessing needed.

How much space do you need for a pool table?

Your room needs to be larger than just the size of your table. You need enough space for players to use their cues on all sides.

Standard pool cues are 57-58 inches long (about 4 feet 9 inches). You need to add at least this much clearance between each edge of the table and the wall.

Room size requirements by pool table size

7-Foot pool table (39" x 78")

This size works well in most basements and game rooms. It's the most common home table size.

• Table dimensions: 3 feet 3 inches by 6 feet 6 inches
• Room needed with standard cue: 13 feet x 16 feet
• Room needed with a 48-inch cue: 12 feet x 15 feet

8-Foot pool table (44" x 88")

This is the standard tournament size for many pool games. It needs more length than most rooms have.

• Table dimensions: 3 feet 8 inches by 7 feet 4 inches
• Room needed with standard cue: 13.5 feet x 17 feet
• Room needed with 48-inch cue: 12.5 feet x 16 feet

9-Foot pool table (50" x 100")

This is regulation size for professional tournaments. Few home spaces can fit this size comfortably.

• Table dimensions: 4 feet 2 inches by 8 feet 4 inches
• Room needed with standard cue: 14 feet x 18 feet
• Room needed with 48-inch cue: 13 feet x 17 feet

Pool table clearance chart

Cue length matters

Standard cues are 58 inches long. This provides the best gaming experience. Shorter cues (48 inches or 52 inches) can help in tight spaces. You lose some reach and power, but gain room flexibility.

Consider these space-saving options:

• Wall-mounted cue racks save floor space
• Corner shots may need less clearance if walls meet at angles
• Two-piece cues store more easily, but play the same as one-piece cues

Planning your game room

Measure your space before buying a table. Mark the floor with tape to see how the table fits. Remember to account for:

• Door swings and walkways
• Other furniture in the room
• Lighting fixtures that hang low
• Air vents or obstacles on walls

Most people choose 7-foot tables because they fit in standard rooms. If you have a large basement or a dedicated game room, 8-foot tables offer a better playing experience.

Check your ceiling height too. You need at least 8 feet of clearance for proper cue action on jump shots.

Where to put your pool table

• Basement rooms: Often 12x16 feet or 14x18 feet work for 7-foot tables
• Garage conversions: Usually have enough length, but check the width
• Bonus rooms: Measure carefully - many are too small for comfortable play

The key is having enough space to walk around the table and take shots from all angles. Cramped spaces make the game less fun and limit your shot options.