How Big Are Standard Hotel Rooms?

I have often checked into a hotel room, looked around, and wondered how big the room I was staying in was. In addition, I was curious if the quality of the hotel made a difference to the size of a room. This article delves into how large you would expect a hotel room to be and what the average size is.

Please read further to discover, as I did, what an average-sized hotel room should be and if you are getting a good deal for the average room-size rate. And just what is the difference between Five Star and Three Star Hotels?

What is the Average Hotel Room Size?

According to USA Today, the average hotel room is 13×25 feet or approximately 325 sq. ft. This room is based on a standard hotel room of 17’x17′ square feet or 20’x17′ or typically 20-30 sq. ft. Room sizes are also affected by the class of the motel.

As a rule of thumb, these hotel classifications are typical room sizes:

1. 5 Star Hotel Room Size

The Five Star hotel usually is a minimum of 400 – 500 sq. ft. or at least 52.5 sq. ft. The average cost to construct a Five Star hotel room is $400-$500 per square foot. A suite in a Five Star hotel, maybe 600-800 sq. ft.

2. Four Star Hotel Room Size

A Four-Star hotel has a minimum of 300-400 sq. ft. The Four-Star hotel is more about extra services and enhanced relaxation. The standard room’s cost is around $350-$410 per square foot.

3. Three Star Hotel Room Size

Three Star hotel rooms are typically spacious at around 300+ square feet and are aesthetically pleasing in decor and amenities. A Three Star hotel may have spacious rooms but will usually not have any suites available.

These hotels intend to cater more to multi-night business travelers’ stays. The average cost to build is around $250-$375 per square foot.

4. Two Star Hotel Room Size

Two Star Hotels are usually a member of a brand and are more well known than One Star hotels. The Two Star Hotel rooms are in the 20-30 square feet range and cost approximately $180-$235 per square foot.

5. One Star Hotel Room Size

One Star hotels provide basic amenities for transient guests and include an en-suite bathroom. They tend to be individually owned and not part of a hotel brand. The rooms will typically be around 150-300 sq. ft., and construction costs are $134-$170 per square foot range.

What are the Differences in Hotel Ratings?

There are primarily five hotel ratings, and each rated hotel may have room sizes based on how high their ratings are. This is a breakdown of the five hotel classifications and what are the qualifications for the ratings:

1. One Star Hotels

Typically privately owned and not part of a hotel chain, these hotels provide basic necessities. Usual amenities include a basic bed and bathroom and perhaps a phone, television, or coffee maker.

These hotels are often located close to restaurants or fast food establishments as they do not have food services. One particular note is that the One Star rating does not reflect safety or cleanliness, simply limited amenities. Rooms are usually smaller, at around 150-300 square feet.

2. Two Star Hotels

Two Star hotels are often part of a chain or brand, such as Comfort Inn, Econo Lodge, or Sleep Inn &Suites. They provide necessary amenities for a comfortable night’s sleep, including larger TVs, a coffee maker, and a hairdryer. An added luxury for a branded hotel chain will usually provide the added security of 24-hour front desk services.

A continental breakfast is provided, and Two Star hotel properties are usually on major expressway exits for higher exposure. These branded hotels normally offer brand loyalty programs for frequent travelers, and room sizes are in the 300 sq. ft. range.

3. Three Star Hotels

Three Star hotels provide a balance between more upscale amenities and affordability. Usually, these hotels or mid-tier offerings from luxury hotel brands are recognized as Hampton Inn, Hyatt Place, or Courtyard by Marriott.

Although not super luxurious, they provide more bonus amenities, such as a larger room with a couch, desk, or comfortable chair. These hotels are often located near local attractions, restaurants, theaters, or major cities as they cater to frequent business travelers.

A Three Star property normally has 24-hour front desk services and may provide room service or on-premise food services. The Three-Star rooms and suites can be as large as 900 square feet.

4. Four Star Hotels

Four Star hotels are more upscale with many activities, extra amenities, and on-demand services to encourage multi-night stays. They are often close to local tourist attractions, major cities, or beaches. The Four-Star hotel property is noticeably more elegant, and there may be many buildings throughout the property.

This upscale property staff includes valets, front desk receptionists, concierges, and kitchen and housekeeping employees. The hotel staff works hard to keep guests entertained on the property and typically provides indoor/outdoor pools, spas, tennis courts, live music, and various self-improvement classes.

Some of the more recognizable Four-Star hotel brands include Westin by Marriott, Hilton Grand Vacation Resorts, and Omni Hotels. Four Star Hotels’ rooms’ average size ranges up to 400 square feet and up to 730 square feet for a Family Suite.

5. Five Star Hotels

Five Star hotels have the highest-end accommodations to provide luxurious visitor experiences. One can discover many Five Star hotel properties in exotic locations that are destinations themselves.

Some services that guests can enjoy may include personal butlers, saunas and steam rooms, on-site golf courses, designated concierge, and round-the-clock room services. Elegant lobbies and architecturally beautiful hotel designs are hallmarks of Five Star hotels, along with gourmet restaurants and top-rated chefs.

The guest is pampered with all their needs by super attentive hotel staff. Whereas Two Star and Three Star hotels have 20-30 sq. ft. rooms, a Five Star Hotel must be at least 52.5 square feet. Familiar Five Star hotel brands include Ritz-Carlton, Four Seasons, Park Hyatt, and Mandarin Oriental.

What are the Best Hotel Amenities for the Traveler?

Whether on business or holidays, each type of traveler desires its respective amenities. As a hotel rule of thumb, these are the best amenities for different classes of travelers:

Best Amenities for Business Travelers

• High-speed internet access
• Work desk
• Multiple power outlets
• Iron and ironing board
• Exercise room
• Complimentary evening cocktail

Best Amenities for Holiday Travelers

• Kitchenette with available appliances
• Free airport shuttle
• Exercise rooms and pools/spas
• Different dining options on or off-site and recommendations

Best Amenities for Weekend Travelers

• Quality complimentary toiletries
• Flexible check-in procedures
• Secure available luggage storage
• Easy access to local attractions
• Free parking