What size 1-car garage do I need?
The short answer
A 12x16 is the practical starting size for a smaller vehicle, a 12x20 suits most passenger vehicles, and pickup owners usually step up to a 12x24. Measure the vehicle with mirrors, then add room for doors, walking space, and storage — size-by-size square footage is in our 1-car garage size guide.
There is no universal standard for a 1-car garage. Size it by use: parking only, parking plus storage, or parking plus workspace. The Shed Yard builds 12-foot and 14-foot wide single-car garages in a range of lengths.
- 12x14 (168 sq ft): smallest footprint — better for motorcycles, ATVs, or toys than daily parking.
- 12x16 (192 sq ft): practical start for a smaller car with limited storage.
- 12x20 (240 sq ft): popular size for many passenger vehicles plus basic storage.
- 12x24 (288 sq ft): common pickup step-up, or vehicle plus meaningful storage.
- 14-foot widths: more side clearance and easier door access.
Vehicle-by-vehicle guidance and measuring steps are in the 1-car garage size guide; pricing by size is in the 1-car garage cost guide.