What’s the Difference Between an Alaskan King and a California King?

If you’re wondering what sets an Alaskan King apart from a California King, the answer lies in size and purpose: the Alaskan King is significantly larger, designed for families and spacious bedrooms, while the California King prioritizes length and sleekness for tall sleepers in narrower rooms.

Imagine stretching out in bed and never reaching the edge. That’s the kind of space the Alaskan King offers—measuring a whopping 108″ x 108″. In contrast, the California King is still roomy at 72″ x 84″, but it’s a better fit for those needing extra legroom rather than width.

Why does this matter? Choosing the right mattress can dramatically affect your sleep quality, your room’s layout, and even your relationship—especially if you’re sharing the bed. This guide helps you understand the key differences between these two mattress giants so you can make an informed decision based on your sleep habits, bedroom size, and comfort needs.

Ready to dive into the world of oversized sleep luxury and long-bed efficiency?

Best Beds for Oversized Comfort and Support

When choosing between Alaskan King and California King beds, it’s not just about size—it’s about the right mattress and frame to complement that size. Here are three top-rated beds that stand out for their comfort, durability, and suitability for oversized sleep needs.

The Alaskan King Bed by Big Mattress Co.
Designed specifically for the Alaskan King size, this mattress offers premium memory foam layers and hybrid cooling tech for restful sleep even in the biggest bed imaginable.

California King Saatva Classic Mattress
This luxury innerspring hybrid offers the perfect combination of comfort and spine-aligning support—ideal for taller sleepers who want extra legroom without sacrificing edge support.

Alaskan King Bed Frame by Taylor & Wells
Built with reinforced hardwood and upholstered in high-end linen, this frame not only supports the massive Alaskan King but also adds style and stability to your master bedroom.

These products are selected based on quality, consumer satisfaction, and compatibility with oversized mattress dimensions.

Dimensions: Alaskan King vs. California King

Understanding the exact dimensions is crucial when choosing between an Alaskan King and a California King mattress. The Alaskan King is one of the largest mattress sizes available, measuring a massive 108 inches by 108 inches (9 feet by 9 feet). This square-shaped bed offers enormous sleeping space, ideal for couples who want plenty of room or for families who enjoy co-sleeping with children or pets. Because of its size, the Alaskan King requires a very large bedroom and specialized bedding.

On the other hand, the California King measures 72 inches wide by 84 inches long. While it is narrower than a standard king, it compensates with extra length. This makes the California King perfect for taller sleepers who need more legroom but have less width available in their bedroom. The rectangular shape also fits well in rooms that are longer than they are wide.

When comparing the two:

• Alaskan King: 108” x 108” (Square shape, extremely wide and long)
• California King: 72” x 84” (Rectangular shape, longer but narrower)

Because the Alaskan King is significantly larger, it demands more floor space, which might not suit every bedroom. The California King offers a balance between size and room adaptability.

Bedroom Space and Room Layout Considerations

Choosing between an Alaskan King and a California King mattress isn’t just about personal preference—it’s also about how the bed fits into your bedroom space and overall room layout.

The Alaskan King’s enormous 9-foot square footprint requires a very large bedroom. Ideally, your room should be at least 15 by 15 feet to comfortably accommodate the bed, allow space for movement, and place other furniture without feeling cramped. This size is often found in luxury homes or master suites designed with oversized furnishings in mind. Additionally, doorways, stairwells, and hallways must be wide enough to move the mattress and frame during delivery, which can be a logistical challenge.

In contrast, the California King is more adaptable to average master bedrooms. With dimensions of 72 by 84 inches, it fits nicely into rooms that are narrower or longer, such as those measuring around 12 by 14 feet or larger. The elongated shape suits rectangular rooms and offers better use of space for people who want extra length without the overwhelming width.

Other layout factors to consider:

• Furniture placement: Nightstands, dressers, and seating areas need enough clearance around the bed for comfortable use.
• Traffic flow: Ensure easy access in and out of the bed without squeezing past bulky furniture.
• Aesthetic balance: Oversized beds can dominate a room visually, so complementary furniture and decor should balance the space.

In short, the Alaskan King is a statement piece demanding a large, open space, while the California King offers versatility and comfort without overwhelming your room.

Who Should Choose an Alaskan King vs. a California King

Deciding between an Alaskan King and a California King mattress comes down to your unique lifestyle, sleep habits, and bedroom environment. Each mattress size caters to different needs and preferences.

Alaskan King is perfect for:

• Families who co-sleep with kids or pets and need ample room.
• Couples who prefer maximum personal space to stretch and move freely during sleep.
• People with very large master bedrooms (15×15 feet or larger).
• Those who want a luxurious, statement mattress that enhances the bedroom’s grandeur.

However, this bed’s large size means it requires special bedding and may be harder to move or fit through doorways. It’s an investment in space and comfort.

California King suits:

• Tall sleepers who require extra length for leg comfort (usually over 6 feet tall).
• Couples or individuals who want a roomy bed but have moderate bedroom sizes.
• Those with long, narrow bedrooms where width is limited but length can be accommodated.
• Sleepers who appreciate a balance between luxury and practicality.

The California King provides an excellent compromise, delivering extra length without taking up as much floor space as an Alaskan King.

Ultimately, your decision should consider not only your sleep needs but also bedroom dimensions, lifestyle, and budget.

Bedding and Accessories for Oversized Mattresses

When investing in an Alaskan King or California King mattress, selecting the right bedding and accessories is essential to maximize comfort and protect your investment. Oversized mattresses require specialized sheets, mattress protectors, and frames designed to fit their unique dimensions.

For the Alaskan King, finding fitted sheets can be challenging since it’s a less common size. Many opt for custom-made bedding or companies that specialize in oversized bed linens. Look for stretchy, high-quality materials like cotton blends or bamboo fabric to ensure a snug fit and breathability. Mattress protectors should be waterproof and sized specifically for the 108” x 108” dimensions to cover every inch.

With the California King, bedding options are more widely available. Fitted sheets, mattress toppers, and protectors come in standard sizes, making replacements and purchases easier. Still, choose materials that offer moisture-wicking and temperature regulation to improve sleep quality.

Accessories such as bed frames, headboards, and nightstands should also complement the mattress size:

• Sturdy bed frames that can support the weight and size without sagging.
• Adjustable bases if you want enhanced comfort features like reclining or massage functions.
• Coordinated nightstands that fit well beside the wider Alaskan King or the longer California King.

Investing in quality bedding and accessories ensures your oversized mattress provides lasting comfort and support.

Cost and Availability Comparison

When deciding between an Alaskan King and a California King mattress, cost and availability are important practical factors to consider.

The Alaskan King mattress is a luxury niche product. Due to its massive size and limited demand, it typically comes with a premium price tag. Expect to pay significantly more than standard king-sized mattresses—not just for the mattress itself, but also for custom bedding, reinforced frames, and potentially specialized delivery services. Availability can be limited, often requiring special orders from manufacturers or custom mattress makers. Lead times may be longer, so planning ahead is crucial.

In contrast, the California King is a standard size widely available from most major mattress brands and retailers. Prices vary based on materials and brand but generally fall within a reasonable range for high-quality mattresses. Bedding, frames, and accessories are easier to find, often available off-the-shelf. This makes the California King a more accessible choice for many shoppers balancing comfort, size, and budget.

Here’s a quick comparison:

• Alaskan King
  • Price: Premium, often several thousands of dollars
  • Availability: Limited, custom order likely
  • Bedding & accessories: Custom or specialty purchase required
• California King
  • Price: Mid to high range, competitive market pricing
  • Availability: Widely available, many options
  • Bedding & accessories: Standard sizes, easy to find

Choosing between these two sizes ultimately involves weighing your desire for space against your budget and logistical feasibility.

Conclusion

Choosing between an Alaskan King and a California King mattress boils down to your space, sleep preferences, and lifestyle needs. The Alaskan King offers unparalleled roominess, perfect for those with large bedrooms or families who want extra space to spread out. Meanwhile, the California King strikes a balance with extra length ideal for tall sleepers and fits more easily into average-sized rooms.

Both options bring unique benefits, but understanding your bedroom dimensions, budget, and daily routines will help you make the best decision. Don’t forget to consider specialized bedding, frames, and delivery logistics—especially with the larger Alaskan King.

Whichever mattress you choose, prioritizing comfort and fit will lead to better sleep quality and a more enjoyable bedroom experience.

For more on mattress sizes and choosing the right bed, check out our guides on King vs. Queen Mattress and How to Measure Your Bedroom for a Bed.

Frequently Asked Questions About What’s the Difference Between an Alaskan King and a California King?

What is the exact size difference between an Alaskan King and a California King mattress?

The Alaskan King measures 108 inches by 108 inches, making it a perfect square and one of the largest mattresses available. The California King is 72 inches wide by 84 inches long, narrower but longer than a standard king. The Alaskan King offers significantly more sleeping area, but requires much more bedroom space.

Can I use regular king or California King sheets on an Alaskan King mattress?

No, regular king or California King sheets will not fit an Alaskan King mattress. Due to its enormous size, Alaskan King beds require custom or specialty oversized sheets, mattress protectors, and bedding accessories designed specifically for 108” x 108” dimensions.

Which mattress is better for tall sleepers?

The California King is better suited for tall sleepers because it provides extra length (84 inches) compared to the standard king size. The Alaskan King offers more width and space but does not specifically cater to height needs.

How much bedroom space do I need for an Alaskan King bed?

To comfortably fit an Alaskan King mattress, you’ll need a very large bedroom—ideally 15 by 15 feet or larger—to allow space for furniture, walking room, and bed placement. Smaller rooms will feel cramped or might not physically accommodate this size.

Are Alaskan King mattresses more expensive than California Kings?

Yes, Alaskan King mattresses are typically more expensive due to their size, limited production, and the need for custom bedding and frames. California Kings are more widely available and come in a range of prices, generally making them more affordable and accessible.

If you have more questions or want guidance on picking the right mattress size for your space, feel free to ask!