A standard 2 car garage ranges from 400 to 576 square feet, with the most common dimensions being 20x20 feet (400 sq ft), 24x24 feet (576 sq ft), or 24x30 feet (720 sq ft)[1]. The minimum recommended size is 20x20 feet, while the average two-car garage measures 20x22 to 24x24 feet[2]. For larger vehicles like SUVs and trucks, a 24x24 or 24x30 foot garage provides more comfortable clearance and storage space[3].
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 | 20x20 ft | 400 sq ft | Two compact cars only[1] |
| Average | 20x22 ft | 440 sq ft | Standard sedans[2] |
| Average | 22x22 ft | 484 sq ft | Mid-size vehicles[4] |
| Recommended | 24x24 ft | 576 sq ft | SUVs, storage space[1] |
| Large | 24x30 ft | 720 sq ft | Trucks, workshop area[2] |
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.
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.
Modern vehicles have grown larger than their predecessors, making older garage standards increasingly inadequate. Choosing the right garage size requires understanding your vehicle dimensions.
Vehicles like Honda Civics, Toyota Corollas, and Ford Focuses typically measure 14-16 feet long and 6-6.5 feet wide[5]. A 20x20 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 20x22 or 22x22 garage provides adequate breathing room[4].
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 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 24x30 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.
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.
The garage door size directly impacts usability, particularly for larger vehicles.
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.
Some homeowners prefer two individual 8-9 foot doors instead of one large door. This configuration:
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.
If you need to park two vehicles with minimal additional storage, these sizes work:
Adding lawn equipment, bicycles, seasonal items, and wall-mounted storage requires extra space:
For those wanting workbench space, tool storage, or hobby areas alongside vehicle parking:
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.
Many municipalities regulate garage dimensions through building codes. Common requirements include:
Before finalizing plans, check local codes with your building department. Some areas restrict garage size based on lot dimensions or neighborhood covenants[1].
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