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A standard 2 car garage ranges from 400 to 576 square feet, with the most common dimensions being 20×20 feet (400 sq ft), 24×24 feet (576 sq ft), or 24×30 feet (720 sq ft)[1]. The minimum recommended size is 20×20 feet, while the average two-car garage measures 20×22 to 24×24 feet[2]. For larger vehicles like SUVs and trucks, a 24×24 or 24×30 foot garage provides more comfortable clearance and storage space[3].
Standard 2 Car Garage Dimensions
Two-car garage sizes vary based on intended use, vehicle types, and available property space. Understanding the range helps you choose the right size for your needs.
| Size Category | Dimensions | Square Footage | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum | 20×20 ft | 400 sq ft | Two compact cars only[1] |
| Average | 20×22 ft | 440 sq ft | Standard sedans[2] |
| Average | 22×22 ft | 484 sq ft | Mid-size vehicles[4] |
| Recommended | 24×24 ft | 576 sq ft | SUVs, storage space[1] |
| Large | 24×30 ft | 720 sq ft | Trucks, workshop area[2] |
Width Requirements
The standard width of a 2-car garage ranges from 20 to 24 feet[3]. This measurement determines how comfortably two vehicles fit side by side and whether occupants can open doors without hitting walls or the adjacent car.
- 20 feet wide: Minimum for two vehicles. Works for compact cars but leaves tight clearance between vehicles and walls. Door opening may require careful maneuvering[3].
- 22 feet wide: Provides modest improvement, allowing about 3 feet between parked vehicles. Suitable for standard sedans and small crossovers[4].
- 24 feet wide: The recommended width for most homeowners. Comfortably accommodates SUVs and trucks while providing adequate space for storage along walls[1].
Depth Requirements
Garage depth typically ranges from 20 to 30 feet[3]. This measurement affects whether longer vehicles fit and whether space remains for workbenches, storage, or walking around parked vehicles.
- 20 feet deep: Accommodates standard sedans (14-16 feet long) with minimal front clearance. Not ideal for SUVs or trucks[5].
- 22-24 feet deep: Better suited for SUVs and crossovers (17-21 feet long). Allows space for front-wall shelving or a small workbench[2].
- 30 feet deep: Provides room for full-size trucks plus significant storage, workshop space, or other activities[1].
Vehicle Size Considerations
Modern vehicles have grown larger than their predecessors, making older garage standards increasingly inadequate. Choosing the right garage size requires understanding your vehicle dimensions.
Compact and Mid-Size Cars
Vehicles like Honda Civics, Toyota Corollas, and Ford Focuses typically measure 14-16 feet long and 6-6.5 feet wide[5]. A 20×20 garage technically fits two compact cars, but occupants face tight door clearances and virtually no storage space.
For comfortable daily use with compact cars, a 20×22 or 22×22 garage provides adequate breathing room[4].
SUVs and Crossovers
Popular models like Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Ford Explorer range from 17-19 feet long and 6.5-7 feet wide (without mirrors)[6]. Modern SUVs and crossovers average 78-81 inches wide—a full 6.5 feet without mirrors[6].
For SUVs, a single bay needs at least 12 feet of interior width to avoid door dings[6]. This translates to a minimum 24-foot wide garage for two SUVs. A depth of 22-24 feet accommodates the longer bodies while still allowing hatchbacks to open fully[3].
Full-Size Trucks
Full-size pickups like Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado, and RAM 1500 can exceed 20 feet in length (particularly extended cab and crew cab models) and 7 feet in width[5].
For two full-size trucks, consider dimensions of 24×30 feet (720 sq ft) or larger[1]. This size also accommodates lifted suspensions, roof racks, and cargo boxes that add to height and length requirements.
Ceiling Height Considerations
While square footage addresses floor space, ceiling height determines what you can store vertically and whether taller vehicles fit.
| Ceiling Height | Applications |
|---|---|
| 8 feet | Standard cars, basic storage[3] |
| 9 feet | SUVs, crossovers, overhead storage racks |
| 10-12 feet | Lifted trucks, vehicle lifts, mezzanine storage[3] |
Standard garage ceilings measure 8-9 feet[3]. If you plan to install overhead storage, park lifted vehicles, or add a vehicle lift for maintenance, specify 10-12 foot ceilings during construction.
Garage Door Dimensions
The garage door size directly impacts usability, particularly for larger vehicles.
Standard Two-Car Garage Door
A single 16-foot wide door spanning both bays is common for 2-car garages[7]. This width accommodates two standard vehicles but may feel tight for trucks and SUVs.
Two Separate Doors
Some homeowners prefer two individual 8-9 foot doors instead of one large door. This configuration:
- Allows independent access to each bay
- Reduces heat loss (opening one door at a time)
- Costs more to install but offers flexibility
Door Height
Standard garage doors measure 7 feet tall. For SUVs with roof racks or lifted trucks, 8-foot doors provide necessary clearance[6]. Check your tallest vehicle’s height (including any accessories) before finalizing door specifications.
Choosing the Right Size for Your Needs
Vehicles Only (Minimal Storage)
If you need to park two vehicles with minimal additional storage, these sizes work:
- Two compact cars: 20×20 (400 sq ft) minimum
- Two mid-size sedans: 20×22 (440 sq ft)
- Two SUVs: 24×24 (576 sq ft)[1]
Vehicles Plus Storage
Adding lawn equipment, bicycles, seasonal items, and wall-mounted storage requires extra space:
- Mid-size vehicles + storage: 22×24 (528 sq ft)
- SUVs + storage: 24×24 (576 sq ft)
- Trucks + storage: 24×30 (720 sq ft)[2]
Vehicles Plus Workshop
For those wanting workbench space, tool storage, or hobby areas alongside vehicle parking:
- Minimum workshop setup: 24×30 (720 sq ft)
- Comfortable workshop: 28×30 (840 sq ft) or larger
The key principle: choose dimensions that accommodate both your current and anticipated future vehicles[2]. Trading up to an SUV or truck later means your garage should already handle that size.
Local Building Codes and Requirements
Many municipalities regulate garage dimensions through building codes. Common requirements include:
- Minimum interior dimensions of 20×20 feet[1]
- Minimum ceiling height of 7 feet (often 8 feet required)
- Setback distances from property lines
- Maximum lot coverage percentages
Before finalizing plans, check local codes with your building department. Some areas restrict garage size based on lot dimensions or neighborhood covenants[1].
Key Takeaways
- Standard 2 car garages range from 400-720 square feet, with 20×20 (400 sq ft) being minimum and 24×24 (576 sq ft) being the recommended average
- Width requirements range from 20-24 feet; 24 feet wide provides comfortable door clearance for SUVs and trucks
- Depth requirements range from 20-30 feet; 22-24 feet accommodates most modern SUVs while 30 feet suits full-size trucks plus storage
- Modern SUVs average 78-81 inches wide, requiring at least 12 feet per bay for comfortable parking
- Choose dimensions based on your largest anticipated future vehicle, not just current needs
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum size for a 2 car garage?
The minimum practical size is 20×20 feet (400 square feet)[1]. This provides just enough space for two compact or mid-size sedans parked side by side. However, door clearance is tight, and virtually no space remains for storage or walking around vehicles. For most households, 22×22 or 24×24 represents a more functional minimum.
Will my truck fit in a 20×20 garage?
A single full-size truck will fit, but parking two trucks in a 20×20 garage is impractical[3]. Most full-size pickups measure 17-21 feet long. A 20-foot deep garage leaves only inches of front clearance and no room for storage at the front wall. For trucks, a minimum depth of 24 feet is recommended[3].
How much does it cost to build a 2 car garage?
Costs vary significantly by location, materials, and features. Basic attached garages typically cost $20,000-$40,000, while detached garages range from $25,000-$60,000 or more[2]. Factors affecting price include foundation type, roofing, electrical, insulation, and finishes. Larger square footage increases costs proportionally.
What size garage door do I need for two cars?
References
- Sheds Unlimited. (2025). 2-Car Garage Dimensions: Your Complete Guide. https://shedsunlimited.net/blog/two-car-garage-dimensions/
- Alan’s Factory Outlet. (2025). 2026 Two-Car Garage Size and Price Guide. https://alansfactoryoutlet.com/blog/2-car-garage-dimensions/
- Eagle Carports. (2025). Dimensions of a 2-Car Garage: Standard Sizes, Layouts & Design. https://www.eaglecarports.com/blog/dimensions-of-a-2-car-garage
- Angi. (2025). 2-Car Garage Dimensions: A Complete Guide to Standard Sizes. https://www.angi.com/articles/2-car-garage-size.htm
- Danley’s Garages. (2025). What Garage Size Do I Need? https://www.danleys.com/garages/what-size-do-i-need/
- Metal Pro Buildings. (2025). Garage Dimensions Guide: Sizes for Any Vehicle & Use. https://metalprobuildings.com/standard-garage-sizes-what-you-need-to-know-before-planning/
- J.D. Power. (2022). How Many Square Feet Is A 2-Car Garage? https://www.jdpower.com/cars/shopping-guides/how-many-square-feet-is-a-2-car-garage
I am a senior automotive analyst at Autvex. Expert vehicle evaluations, in-depth reviews, and objective analysis helping readers make informed automotive decisions with years of industry experience.
