Choosing between standard and comfort height toilets comes down to accessibility
Standard toilet height measures 14.5 to 16 inches from floor to seat, while comfort height toilets measure 17 to 19 inches for easier sitting.
Toilet seats cost $15 to $50 when sold separately, and comfort height models suit taller adults while standard options work better for children.
Comfort height toilets meet ADA requirements and help older adults stand safely, but standard toilets fit better in smaller bathrooms with existing fixtures.
Hiring a local toilet professional provides helpful guidance on choosing the right height for your household and completing installation without wobbling or leaks.
As a homeowner, you might find yourself needing to replace your toilet. There are several considerations when it comes to picking the best toilet for your house, one of which is installing a standard height or comfort height toilet. Here are the main differences to help you make an informed decision.
When choosing between a standard height toilet versus a comfort height toilet, the difference is the height. Comfort height toilets are between 2 ½ and 3 inches taller than traditional types of toilets, meaning they’re easier to sit on and stand up from. They accommodate taller people and those who need extra support. A professional toilet installer can help source the right toilet for your bathroom.
The appropriate toilet height for your bathroom depends on your household’s needs. You likely already have a standard height toilet in your home, meaning the distance between the toilet seat and the floor is about 14.5 to 16 inches.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fits better in smaller bathrooms | Not accessible for some people with disabilities or wheelchair users |
| Children can reach without a step stool | Difficult for older adults and taller people to use |
| Idea for children and adults under 5’4” | May require a raised toilet seat or toilet riser |
| Weighs less than larger toilets | More expensive |
Best for:
Children and adults under 5’4”
Bathrooms with limited space
Bathrooms with built-in toilet paper holders at standard height
The standard toilet height is comfortable for most people, including petite adults. If you have children, a standard height toilet is essential in their bathroom. Otherwise, they won’t be able to reach without a step stool. Since these toilets are standard height, they fit well in most bathrooms. The toilet seat will match the height of existing toilet paper holders and fit under existing shelves.
Unfortunately, standard toilets can be challenging for taller people, older adults, and people with disabilities. If you stick with a standard toilet, you can always purchase a raised toilet seat or a toilet riser, which you can install below the toilet for extra height.
The comfort height toilet, also known as a chair height toilet, is the same height as a standard chair. At 17 to 19 inches from floor to toilet seat, this type of toilet is best for the older population or taller adults.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Meets ADA requirements for adults | May be too tall for people under 5’4” and children |
| Safer for older adults and people with disabilities | Heavier than traditional toilets |
| No need for toilet risers or elevated seats | May be too tall for built-in toilet paper holders |
| Most comfortable for people 5’4” and over | May not fit in smaller bathrooms |
Best for:
Taller people
Individuals who need or prefer elevated seats
ADA-compliant bathrooms and accessible bathroom design
Larger bathrooms
A comfort-height toilet, also known as an ADA toilet, meets the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements for adults (17 to 19 inches between the floor and the toilet seat). It's safer for those who need a higher seat, such as older adults or people with disabilities.
Because of the taller toilet height, you likely won't need a toilet riser or an elevated toilet seat for people with a taller build—that's why it’s called a "comfort" height.
The comfort height option has a few disadvantages. Children or petite adults in your home may have to use a steep stool while using a comfort height toilet. These toilets can also be more difficult to install, especially in small spaces, since they’re heavier and bigger than other models. Because of the increased height, you may need to adjust or replace the accessories around your toilet, like the toilet paper holder and storage shelves.
When choosing between a chair height versus standard height toilet, consider if one or the other accommodates all of the members in your household. If you have multiple bathrooms, you could install a standard height toilet in the children’s bathroom and a comfort height toilet in the primary bathroom.
One of the best tips for choosing the right toilet for your home is to test it by sitting on it before buying it. It should be easy to sit and stand up when in use. Rest your feet on the floor to ensure they don't dangle and check that the toilet seat is in a comfortable position.
Here's how the two choices stack up against one another so you can make the best decision.
Both standard height and comfort height toilets come in different colors, but most homeowners select white toilets. While you may have fond memories of your grandparents’ pink bathroom, neutral colors have more resale value if you ever put your house on the market.
New bathroom fixtures can make your toilet look dingy or outdated in comparison. Now’s the chance to replace it with a modern model, like one with an elongated bowl, to match your bathroom upgrades.
Comfort height toilets and regular height toilets come with similar characteristics and features. The sole distinction is the distance between the toilet bowl and the ground.
Both comfort height and standard height toilets fall within a similar price range, but standard height toilets are slightly more expensive. Pricing also depends on the brand and model, as both are available in low-end or luxury models.
Some brands sell different toilet seats separately, around $15 to $50 per piece. Overall, it may minimally affect your budget. Because the cost varies by location and brand, working with a local toilet installer can be beneficial for sourcing a quality toilet.
Installation is the same for both toilet heights, and the cost to install a toilet is about $375.
Choose a standard height toilet if you need the toilet to fit in a tight location like underneath a shelf. Otherwise, it could take some renovations to get a comfort height toilet to fit correctly.
Unless you hold a plumbing license, it's best to hire a professional in your area who will ensure the toilet functions properly, isn't wobbling, and connections aren’t leaking.
Comfort height toilets meet the ADA guidelines for accessible toilets and provide the height needed for people who use wheelchairs. The extra height makes it safer and easier for individuals with disabilities. Ideally, the toilet height should line up with the height of the wheelchair seat.
Stephanie Shaykin contributed to this piece.
Positive experience. As previously stated, the replacement/repair could not be completed (no fault of the plumbing tech) b/c misinformation was rec?d by property management maintenance. Thanks to the plumbing tech for your efforts. Appreciate you!
The WaterworksIf you want to pay the most exorbitant prices possible for your job, this is the company for you. “By the job” pricing is a rip-off, at least how these people use it. Every job is plugged into a category and prices are set by category. You might have a job that takes half an hour or one that...
Benjamin Franklin PlumbingCole has been handling plumbing and general contracting for our four properties over the past three years, and he’s always done a great job. Most recently, he installed a sink and countertop in our retail store where none existed before, and it turned out exactly how we needed. He’s...
ANB Renovations LLCMatt is a consummate professional. The work turned out to be far more difficult than expected and rather than turn the job down, Matt rose to the occasion and completed a near impossible task. I can not recommend Greene's Plumbing Service more highly. On a scale of 1-5 I would give Matt a...
Greene's Plumbing ServiceInvolved an extensive bathroom remodel, including removing tub & installing walk in shower, new drywall, custome tile work to ceiling, plumbing, etc. Overall, job was done on time and on budget. Nick & his team were very professional and had high attention to detail. Quality was great. Highly...
Stamos Flooring and Remodeling LLCAwesome company. Had a jacuzzi tub taken out and replaced with huge walk in shower with partial glass enclosure. Onyx to the ceiling with a decorative border, moved plumbing and installed hand held shower, new ceiling, flooring, and paint. Replaced window with glass block. Everything was done...
Columbus Bath DesignThe initial quoted price from a walk-through seemed high, but we discussed that the quote represented worst case scenario (re-wiring to two floors) and we were excited about the opportunity to have the work done in a timely manner with closing for fire safety reasons, etc. When the job was...
Initially, I called the Service People to have a leaking garbage disposal replaced. I had purchased a special deal through Angie's List: $79 for $200-worth of plumbing services. <br /> When I went to schedule the work, the earliest date I could get through Angie's List was after the upcoming...
This company did a very good job on the brick wall and it looks just amazing. The staff was always professional and was practically OCD on how the bricks were stacked and how they were laid. Although it took longer than expected, I am willing to sacrifice time over perfection anyday. The...
My Handy Mate LLC Improvement & Remodeling<p>I am so glad we called Rotor-Rooter. I was hesitant to call them because we usually prefer to give business to local providers. But when we had sewage back up in our basement on a Saturday evening, I had a hard time getting a hold of someone, not to mention the high weekend/evening rate...
Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water CleanupFrom average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Remodeling a bathroom? Toilet dimensions matter more than you think. This guide will tell you everything you need to know—from seat height to clearance.
When shopping for the perfect toilet, compare the different styles, models, and designs. Use these tips for how to choose the right toilet and simplify the process.
When installing a toilet, one of your first decisions is choosing between elongated vs. round toilet seat styles. Here’s what to consider before you buy.
Toilets are a mainstay of American bathrooms, but is it time for a bidet? Before you decide, here’s everything you need to know about bidets versus toilets.
Understanding the types of toilets you can install in your bathroom is essential. You don’t have to stick to traditional two-piece gravity-flush toilets.
When deciding between a one-piece or two-piece toilet, you’ll need to consider cost, durability, and design. Our guide will help you choose the right toilet.
