Beds are where we spend almost a third of our lives, so picking the right one matters.
If you’ve been thinking about upgrading, you might be stuck between the Alaskan King bed vs the California King.
Both are large, luxurious, and perfect for stretching out, but they aren’t the same.
Choosing the wrong size could mean your room feels cramped, your bedding is impossible to find, or your feet still hang off the edge.
The right size will give you comfort, style, and space that work for your lifestyle.
In this guide, we’ll break down the exact differences in size, space requirements, cost, and use cases so you can decide which bed truly belongs in your home.
Alaskan King vs California King: Size Difference
When it comes to choosing between the Alaskan King bed vs the California King, size is the most obvious and most important difference.
While both are large, they’re built with different priorities in mind. One gives extra length for tall sleepers, the other offers unmatched overall space.
Let’s break down each one so you can picture how they’ll fit into your room and lifestyle.
California King
The California King, or “Cal King,” is designed with tall sleepers in mind. It trades a little width for extra length, making it perfect for anyone who’s tired of having their feet hang off the edge.
- Size: 72 inches wide × 84 inches long
- Shape: Rectangular
- Surface Area: About 6,048 square inches
- Best For: Tall individuals and couples who want more legroom without taking up too much bedroom width
Alaskan King
The Alaskan King is the ultimate in oversized luxury. It’s not just a bed, it’s a sleep island. This massive square mattress can comfortably fit couples, kids, pets, and still leave space to stretch out.
- Size: 108 inches wide × 108 inches long
- Shape: Square
- Surface Area: About 11,664 square inches
- Best For: Large families, co-sleepers, and anyone who wants the biggest bed available
At a Glance
- The Alaskan King is 24 inches longer and 36 inches wider than the California King
- That’s more than double the surface area, like adding another entire mattress worth of space
- California King: tailored comfort for height
- Alaskan King: maximum room for everyone
If you’re tall and want a practical, easy-to-fit option, the California King is your best bet.
If you have the room, budget, and love the idea of an oversized sleep sanctuary, the Alaskan King will make your bedroom feel like a luxury retreat.
Pros & Cons of Alaskan King vs California King
When comparing the Alaskan King bed vs California King, looking at the pros and cons side by side can make your decision much easier.
Each bed has unique strengths and potential drawbacks depending on your space, lifestyle, and budget.
1. California King: Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Extra length for tall sleepers | Narrower width than other king sizes |
| Fits comfortably in most master bedrooms | Less space for families or multiple pets |
| Widely available in stores and online | Not as much width as Alaskan King |
| Affordable bedding and accessories | Slightly harder to find than Standard King sizes |
2. Alaskan King: Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Maximum sleeping space for families or pets | Requires very large bedroom |
| Equal length and width for spacious comfort | Higher price |
| Makes a bold, luxury statement | Bedding and frames are harder to find |
| Perfect for co-sleepers and oversized luxury feel | Often needs custom ordering |
If you value extra legroom and accessibility, the California King is a practical choice. If you crave unmatched space and luxury, and have the room for it, the Alaskan King is hard to beat.
Other King-Size Bed Options to Consider
While the Alaskan King bed vs California King debate is popular, there are other king-size beds you might want to know about before making a choice. These can offer different balances of length, width, and practicality.
- Standard King (Eastern King): 76″ × 80″, Great width, fits most master bedrooms, and is easy to shop for.
- Wyoming King: 84″ × 84″, A square bed that offers more width than a Cal King but less than an Alaskan.
- Texas King: 80″ × 98″, Long and wide, perfect for tall sleepers who want more space than a Cal King.
- Family Bed: 120″ × 80″, Extra wide for families who co-sleep but still want a standard length.
Knowing the full range of king-size beds helps you match your choice to your room size, sleeping style, and budget. This way, you don’t miss a size that could be a perfect fit.
Comfort & Ideal Use Cases
Your sleeping habits and lifestyle play a huge role in choosing between an Alaskan King bed vs California King. Both offer plenty of room, but each is tailored for different needs.
| Feature / Use Case | California King | Alaskan King |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Tall individuals needing extra legroom | Large families and co-sleepers |
| Couple Comfort | Comfortable for two without overwhelming the bedroom | Extra-wide for multiple people or pets |
| Bedding & Accessories | Easy to find in stores and online | Mostly custom-made, limited ready-made options |
| Visual Impact | Sleek and proportional in most master bedrooms | Bold, luxury statement piece that dominates the room |
| Room Requirements | Fits well in medium-to-large rooms | Requires very large bedrooms (16′ × 16′ or more) |
If your priority is maximizing space for family or pets, go Alaskan King. If you want personal comfort without redesigning your bedroom, the California King is the smarter choice.
Room Size & Layout Requirements
Before choosing between these king-size options, think about your bedroom’s size and layout. A mattress that’s too large can make the room feel cramped, while one that’s too small might look out of place.
California King:
- Works well in rooms at least 10′ × 12′
- Leaves space for nightstands, dressers, and walking paths
- Easy to move compared to oversized king beds
Alaskan King:
- Requires a minimum of 16′ × 16′ to look balanced
- Best suited for extra-large master bedrooms or loft-style spaces
- May limit where you can place other furniture
Tip: Always measure your room before buying and leave at least two feet of clearance around the bed.
Alaskan King vs California King Comparison
When comparing these two giant bed sizes, it’s important to look beyond dimensions. Price, availability, and accessory options can greatly influence which one is right for you.
1. Price Comparison
A California King typically costs between $700–$4,000, while an Alaskan King ranges from $2,000–$7,000+.
The Alaskan King’s higher cost comes from its larger size, custom manufacturing, and limited availability.
2. Availability in the Market
The California King is easy to find in mattress stores and online retailers.
The Alaskan King often requires a special order from custom or specialty shops, which can mean higher prices and longer wait times.
3. Accessories & Bedding
California King bedding and frames are widely available in various designs and price points.
Alaskan King accessories are usually custom-made, more expensive, and harder to find in standard retail stores.
Final Decision
Choosing between an Alaskan King bed vs California King is more than a matter of size: it’s about matching your bed to your space, lifestyle, and budget.
The California King is ideal for tall sleepers, fits most master bedrooms, and has plenty of affordable accessory options.
The Alaskan King offers unmatched sleeping space and a true luxury feel but requires a larger room, a higher budget, and often custom orders.
Before you decide, measure your room, think about how you use your bed, and consider your long-term needs.
The right choice will give you better sleep and transform your bedroom into a retreat.
Ready to upgrade your sleep? Start by measuring your space and comparing your favorite bed options today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Is Bigger, Alaskan King or California King?
The Alaskan King is significantly larger at 108″ × 108″, offering far more space than the California King’s 72″ × 84″.
Is the Alaskan King Worth the Higher Price?
Yes, if you have a spacious bedroom, higher budget, and want maximum sleeping space. Otherwise, the California King is more practical.
Can I Find Alaskan King Bedding in Regular Stores?
Not usually. Most Alaskan King bedding must be custom-made or purchased from specialty retailers, unlike the widely available California King accessories.
Which Bed Is Better for Tall Sleepers?
The California King is ideal for tall sleepers, offering extra legroom without requiring excessive bedroom width or expensive custom bedding.
