What’s the Difference Between Eastern King and California King?

Eastern King vs. California King: Size Overview

The most noticeable difference between these two mattress sizes is their dimensions.

Eastern King, also known as the Standard King, measures 76 inches wide and 80 inches long. This makes it the widest of any standard mattress size, offering ample room for two adults to spread out horizontally.

California King, on the other hand, is slightly narrower at 72 inches wide but compensates with extra legroom by being 84 inches long. It’s four inches longer and four inches narrower than its Eastern counterpart.

This distinction may seem minor on paper, but it has a real-world impact on comfort, compatibility with furniture, and the overall look and feel of your bedroom.

History and Naming Origins

The term "Eastern King" originated as mattress manufacturers standardized sizes across the United States. The "King" moniker was meant to signify luxury, and the Eastern King (Standard King) became popular in East Coast and Central U.S. markets.

The "California King," sometimes called the "Western King," was developed in the 1960s in Los Angeles. It was created for upscale homes with longer bedrooms, where aesthetics favored a sleeker, more elongated mattress. The extra length accommodated taller sleepers and complemented the California mid-century design style.

Over time, both sizes became mainstream, but regional preferences still exist California Kings remain more popular in the western states, while Eastern Kings dominate elsewhere.

Ideal Sleepers for Each Size

Eastern King beds are perfect for couples who value extra width or share their bed with kids or pets. The 76-inch width allows each partner roughly 38 inches of personal sleeping space, the same as a twin bed.

California King beds, thanks to their 84-inch length, are better suited for tall sleepers particularly those 6’2” or taller. This mattress helps prevent feet from hanging off the edge, which improves sleep quality and reduces strain on joints. Couples with narrow bedrooms may also appreciate the sleeker width.

If you’re over 6 feet tall or your partner is, the California King might be the more practical and comfortable option.

Bedroom Size Requirements

Both King options require a sizable bedroom, but the layout and space dynamics differ slightly.

An Eastern King is better suited for wider rooms, where horizontal furniture arrangements allow the bed to take center stage. Its width can make smaller rooms feel crowded if there's not enough clearance on each side.

A California King fits best in longer, more rectangular rooms. The extra length gives the mattress a more streamlined look, making it appear less bulky even though it covers roughly the same area.

Experts recommend a minimum room size of 12' x 12' for either mattress, but a 12' x 14' room works even better for the California King due to its added length.

Price Comparison and Value

In terms of pricing, Eastern Kings and California Kings are typically in the same range. However, availability can affect the final cost.

Because Eastern Kings are more common, you’ll find more promotional discounts, bundles, and clearance options. California Kings, being more niche, might have slightly higher prices especially for specialty beds like latex or smart mattresses.

On average, the mattress itself won’t differ much in price. Where costs do change is with accessories like frames, sheets, and adjustable bases. California King bedding can be harder to find and occasionally more expensive.

If you shop at premium retailers like LA Mattress Store, you’ll often find both options offered at the same price, especially during holiday promotions.

Bedding and Frame Availability

This is where the Eastern King tends to win. Being the standard King size, it enjoys wider support across all product categories bed frames, headboards, footboards, adjustable bases, sheets, mattress protectors and more.

While most top mattress brands offer both sizes, more budget-friendly or specialty options (like memory foam or organic mattresses) may only be available in Eastern King. The same applies to bedding brands. Sheet sets labeled simply “King” usually refer to Eastern King, not California King.

That said, many reputable brands including Tempur-Pedic, Stearns & Foster, and LA Mattress Store’s premium lines offer full accessory ranges for both sizes. You just need to double-check sizing before purchasing.

Sleeping Positions and Partner Compatibility

For back and stomach sleepers, both sizes offer ample room. However, the difference in width can be significant for couples.

If you or your partner toss and turn or like to spread out, the Eastern King offers more personal space. It also makes sharing the bed with children or pets more comfortable.

For tall individuals who sleep on their back or stomach, the California King offers better foot support. No more cold feet sticking out past the edge of the mattress!

Side sleepers will enjoy both sizes, but the wider Eastern King may offer more versatility for pillow use, especially if one partner uses a body pillow or multiple cushions.

Mattress Types Available for Both Sizes

Most major brands offer their top models in both Eastern and California King sizes. This includes innerspring, memory foam, latex, hybrid, and even smart beds with adjustable firmness or app controls.

Brands like Tempur-Pedic, Avocado, Nectar, Beautyrest, and LA Mattress Store’s in-house lines all provide robust support for both sizes. However, some adjustable bases or hybrid mattresses with split designs may be easier to find in Eastern King.

Split models where each side of the bed has independent adjustability are more common in Eastern Kings. California Kings are usually sold as one solid unit, though split California Kings are available through select brands.

If you’re eyeing a smart bed or adjustable base, check product specifications carefully to ensure compatibility with your desired size.

Which One Should You Choose?

Here’s a quick guide to help make your decision easier:

Choose Eastern King if:

· You want maximum width and personal space.

· You sleep with kids or pets.

· You prefer easier access to accessories and frames.

· You have a wider or more square-shaped bedroom.

Choose California King if:

· You’re over 6 feet tall and need extra legroom.

· You have a longer, rectangular bedroom.

· You like the look of a sleeker bed.

· You don’t mind limited accessory options.

Both options are luxurious and spacious, but how you prioritize width vs. length will ultimately determine the better fit.

Visual Graph: Width vs. Length Comparison

Best Eastern & California King Mattresses to Buy in 2025

1. Harvest Green Essential Natural Latex Mattress (King)

Overview

The Harvest Green Essentials in King size offers 76″ × 80″ × 10″ dimensions and weighs approximately 125 lbs. It combines 1 inch of GOLS-certified Dunlop latex comfort layer, 8 inches of pocketed recycled-steel coil system, and a bottom pad of compressed organic wool and cotton all encased in a breathable organic cotton and wool cover.

Key Features

· Certified Natural & Organic Materials: Uses GOLS-certified organic latex, GOTS-certified cotton and wool.

· Medium-Firm Feel: A balance of supportive yet responsive feel, best suited for side and back sleepers.

· Eco-Friendly Pocketed Coil Support: Includes approximately 1,089 recycled-steel coils in King size offering strong edge support and motion isolation.

· Temperature Regulation: The organic wool layer wicks moisture and regulates body temperature, while open coil structure enhances airflow.

· Adjustable Base Compatible: Certified for use on adjustable bed bases thanks to its flexible coil design.

Pros	Cons
Fully certified organic materials and low VOCs	Only 1″ of latex may lack plushness for side sleepers
Strong edge support and motion reduction	At 125 lbs, can be heavy to move
Excellent temperature and moisture control	Thin profile may feel too firm for users accustomed to pillow-tops
Decent value among organic hybrids	Limited customer reviews
Works with adjustable bases	Firmness may not suit lighter users seeking softer feel

Check Price

2. California King Mattress Stress O’Pedic Royale II Gel (California King)

Overview

The Stress O’Pedic Royale II Gel Extra Firm in California King size (72″ × 84″ × 13″) is a premium gel-infused innerspring mattress designed for back and stomach sleepers seeking firm support and cooling features Health.

Key Features

· Eco-friendly Tencel stretch-knit fabric, moisture-absorbent and hypoallergenic

· High-density gel/reflex firm foam layer for rigid support 

· Tempered-encased innerspring coils that are ultra-responsive and provide strong perimeter reinforcement

· CertiPUR-US certified foams, low VOC emissions, and 10year warranty

· Complimentary white-glove delivery and setup in Los Angeles

Pros	Cons
Excellent for back / stomach sleepers with firm gelfoam comfort	Too firm for side sleepers or those seeking plush contour
Strong edge and center support from encased coils	Minimal motion isolation springy feel may transfer partner movement
Cooling Tencel fabric and gel foam layer	Fewer reviews and less-tested brand compared to national labels
Hypoallergenic, moisture-wicking materials	Final sale clearance non-returnable
Great clearance price with full warranty	Availability limited to LA Mattress Store locations or regional delivery

Check Price

Conclusion

The difference between an Eastern King and a California King may come down to just four inches in either direction, but those inches can have a huge impact on your sleep quality and room design.

The Eastern King offers unmatched width, ideal for couples, families, or anyone who values extra space from edge to edge. The California King, with its extended length, is a top choice for taller individuals or those who prefer a more elongated mattress footprint.

Both are excellent choices just be sure to evaluate your bedroom dimensions, sleeping habits, and accessory availability before making your final decision. For best results, try out both options in-store if possible or consult expert mattress guides at trusted retailers like LA Mattress Store.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is the California King bigger than the Eastern King?
Not exactly. While the California King is longer, the Eastern King is wider. They have similar surface areas but cater to different needs.

2. Can California King sheets fit on an Eastern King mattress?
No. The dimensions differ. Sheets must match the specific mattress size.

3. Is there a difference in price between the two sizes?
Usually not for the mattress itself, but California King accessories can be slightly more expensive.

4. Are California Kings harder to find?
They are less common, so selection may be more limited in-store. However, premium retailers stock both.

5. Can I use an Eastern King frame for a California King mattress?
No. The dimensions are different, and improper support may void your warranty.

6. Which size is better for tall people?
California King. Its 84" length is ideal for sleepers over 6’2”.

7. Which size is better for couples with pets?
Eastern King. The extra width offers more sleeping space side-to-side.

8. Do smart beds come in both King sizes?
Yes, although split options are more commonly available in Eastern King.

9. Is the California King the longest bed size available?
Yes, among standard sizes. Some custom XL beds exist but are not widely available.

10. Where can I buy both sizes easily?
LA Mattress Store offers both Eastern and California King options, including premium brands, adjustable bases, and accessories.