The 16 Best Bar Stools of 2024

We've analyzed the market extensively to compile a list of the finest bar stools available this year, focusing on design, comfort, ease of assembly, and practicality. Continue reading to discover our curated selection of top bar stools perfect for your home and kitchen.

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“Bar stools play a pivotal role in interior design, representing spaces where friends and family gather to unwind,” states Meagan Whalen, a renowned interior designer at JL Design in Nashville.

Known as the heart of the home, kitchens serve as central gathering spots for cooking, dining, and socializing. Including bar stools at your kitchen island or breakfast nook enhances seating capacity while fostering an engaging atmosphere for family and guests alike.

Best Overall

Crate & Barrel Lowe Leather Bar Stool

PHOTO: Crate & Barrel

$429 at Crate & Barrel

Pros

• Constructed from premium materials, this stylish bar stool provides exceptional cushioning and is incredibly easy to maintain.

Cons

• While aesthetically pleasing, it may lack elaborate design features.

Our top overall choice, this upholstered bar stool complements both contemporary and classic kitchen styles. Its impressive comfort results from a well-padded seat and back that strike the perfect balance between firmness and softness. The chair's tall back provides full support and comfort, while the horizontal bars between the legs allow for foot placement, preventing dangling feet.

Although understated, it offers a variety of 11 colors, ranging from neutral shades like chocolate and ivory to vibrant options like red and olive. Made from bi-cast leather, it’s simple to wipe clean, making it a practical choice for busy kitchens. Available in both stool and counter heights, this stool fits seamlessly into almost any setting.

Seat Height: 24 or 30 inches | Material: Wood and leather | Number in Set: Sold individually

Best Value

FDW Metal Bar Stools

PHOTO: Amazon

$60 at Amazon

$142 at Walmart

$108 at Lowe's

Pros

• This versatile set includes four stools and can be stacked for convenient storage.

Cons

• They may be less comfortable for prolonged seating.

If you need functional bar stools on a budget, this FDW set won't disappoint. Constructed from iron, they feature a sleek design available in various finishes, suitable for both kitchens and outdoor spaces. Lightweight and stackable, these stools provide a practical solution for limited areas.

At less than $60 for the entire set, this deal is remarkable, despite potential shipping costs. However, being metal without cushions, these stools may not offer maximum comfort for long periods. Still, they serve as a solid option for occasional seating needs.

Seat Height: 24 or 30 inches | Material: Metal | Number in Set: 4

Best Splurge

Arhaus Aimee Barstool

PHOTO: Arhaus

View on Arhaus.com

Pros

• This stunning bar stool is exquisitely made and will garner compliments from everyone who visits.

Cons

• Careful maintenance is required to keep this barstool in optimal condition.

This gorgeous bar stool is a favorite of Whalen's. “Its cushioned seat, arms, and rounded back provide exceptional comfort,” she mentions, adding that it’s not just beautiful but also timeless. Inspired by mid-century modern and French antique designs, it’s available in black or brown with a lacquered finish for an elegant touch.

Investing in this luxurious bar stool means you'll want to follow specific care instructions to prolong its lifespan (no scrubbing, consider professional cleaning for heavy stains, etc.). While these instructions may add extra effort, the beauty of this handcrafted piece makes it worthwhile.

Seat Height: 30 inches | Material: Wood and rattan | Number in Set: Sold individually

Best Backless

West Elm Alden Bar & Counter Stools

PHOTO: West Elm

$176 at West Elm

Pros

• This backless bar stool's sleek design makes it both attractive and easy to store in compact spaces.

Cons

• Hardware might loosen over time, requiring occasional checks.

Made from sustainably sourced mango wood and raw steel, these backless bar stools suit shorter counters and small kitchen layouts. Although some may find the seat narrow, it’s gently curved for added comfort compared to flat designs. A footrest encircles the legs for additional convenience.

Minimal assembly is required, so you can enjoy this stool's sleek design quickly. Perfect for moving around or tucking under counters, just be sure to check the hardware occasionally, as it may need tightening.

Seat Height: 26 or 30 inches | Material: Wood and metal | Number in Set: Sold individually or as a set of 2

Best Adjustable

Wade Logan Amberlie Adjustable Height Barstool

PHOTO: Wayfair

$117 at Wayfair

Pros

• This modern bar stool can effortlessly adjust heights from counter to bar level with a simple lever pull.

Cons

• The seating area may feel a bit narrow, and the footrest might not feel comfy without shoes.

Every kitchen has its own height dynamics, making adjustable furniture a smart choice. This stool conveniently adjusts between 23 and 31.5 inches, catering to the diverse heights of your guests, whether at the kitchen counter or bar.

Additional features include its rounded back and cushioning for a more pleasant sitting experience. However, it may not be ideal for everyone due to the slight narrowness, and the metal footrest can feel uncomfortable for bare feet.

Seat Height: 23 to 31.5 inches | Material: Fabric upholstery and metal | Number in Set: Sold individually

Best Swivel

Corrigan Studio Full Back Upholstered Metal Bar Stool

PHOTO: Wayfair

$243 at Wayfair

Pros

• The 360-degree swivel feature enhances convenience and interaction.

Cons

• Assembly can be tricky due to the alignment of screw holes.

Opting for swivel stools significantly improves accessibility and enhances conversations in your kitchen, making it enjoyable for visitors of all ages. This bar stool is available in heights tailored for either counter or bar use and allows for a full rotation without any noise.

With sleek legs that flare slightly for stability, plus plush cushions, this design is as comfortable as it is stylish. The fabric options include light gray or deep blue, suiting various color schemes. While assembly is relatively easy, getting the screw holes to align properly might require some teamwork.

Seat Height: 24 or 30 inches | Material: Linen upholstery and metal | Number in Set: 2

Best Outdoor

Serena & Lily Swivel Bar & Counter Stool

PHOTO: Serena & Lily

View on Serena And Lily

Pros

• Withstand various weather conditions, this elegant swivel bar stool is ideal for outdoor spaces.

Cons

• It tends to be on the higher price end, especially when purchasing in sets.

“Serena and Lily are go-to for outdoor bar stools,” states Whalen. “This option enhances the outdoor atmosphere while providing practical functionality.” Engineered to be water-repellent and mildew-resistant and remains colorfast in sunlight, this bar stool combines style with durability. The elegant woven design and beautiful color palette evoke a chic French bistro vibe.

Despite its higher price, the value lies in its long-lasting quality and comfort, making it a worthwhile investment for your outdoor retreats. Pair it with a stylish bar cart for the perfect al-fresco setup.

Seat Height: 26.5 or 30 inches | Material: Aluminum and all-weather resin | Number in Set: Sold individually

Best Minimal

Pottery Barn Leather Bar & Counter Stool

PHOTO: Pottery Barn

$370 at Pottery Barn

Pros

• Available in various finishes, this minimalist stool design balances style with durability.

Cons

• Leather requires specialized care to maintain its condition.

Add minimalist elements to your kitchen with this stool featuring a leather back and sling-style seat on a metal frame. It comes in six leather colors, from vibrant tan to deep blue, allowing customization to suit your decor.

Using full-grain, aniline-dyed leather, every piece will have unique nuances in color and texture, maturing into a wonderful sheen over time. While these details add character, care must be taken to avoid direct sunlight and quickly address spills to retain its charm.

Seat Height: 24 or 30 inches | Material: Metal and full-grain leather | Number in Set: Sold individually

Best Modern

If you want to learn more, please visit our website Upholster Chair.

Wade Logan Amen Bar Stool

PHOTO: Wayfair

$385 at Wayfair

Pros

• This unique modern stool serves as an eye-catching statement piece in any kitchen.

Cons

• Assembly is required, though all necessary tools are provided.

Looking for a standout addition to your kitchen? The Amen Bar Stool by Wade Logan features sharp lines, making it an excellent statement piece that harmonizes seamlessly with its surroundings. Available in beige, charcoal, and a beige boucle fabric, it fits an array of design preferences.

This affordable design mimics the high-end style seen in premium versions, offering a visually appealing option without the hefty price tag.

Seat Height: 29.75 inches | Material: Iron, wood, and upholstered fabric | Number in Set: 2

Best Farmhouse

Three Posts Stroupe Bar Stool

PHOTO: Wayfair

$207 at Wayfair

Pros

• This rustic solid wood stool comes in a variety of colors and heights.

Cons

• Assembly instructions can be confusing, necessitating additional assistance.

For those with a farmhouse aesthetic, this versatile set of bar stools is a perfect match for your decor. With options including white, black, gray, sage, oak, denim, and berry, you're sure to find the right style to fit your space. Constructed from solid wood, they are sure to remain sturdy with the right assembly.

We recommend reading the instructions thoroughly, as they can be somewhat challenging to navigate. Having a second pair of hands can help simplify the assembly process.

Seat Height: 24 or 29 inches | Material: Solid wood | Number in Set: 2

Best Wooden

Pottery Barn Cline Counter Stool

PHOTO: Pottery Barn

$199 at Pottery Barn

$199 at Havenly.com

Pros

• This solid wood chair boasts exceptional durability, being resistant to warping, splitting, cracking, and mildew.

Cons

• Requires diligent care to preserve its finish.

Pottery Barn consistently delivers high-quality furniture, and the Cline Bar Stool is a prime example. This beautifully designed piece showcases the wood's natural grain and offers a simple, elegant aesthetic that enhances both modern and rustic kitchens. Properly kiln-dried wood prevents warping and cracking with the right maintenance.

Keep in mind that maintaining this piece requires attention—promptly wipe up spills and avoid abrasive cleaning products. The manufacturer suggests steering clear of prolonged exposure to sunlight or extreme temperature changes.

Seat Height: 24 inches | Material: Solid wood | Number in Set: Sold individually or as a set of 2

Best Faux Leather

Poly & Bark Paxton Counter Stool

PHOTO: Amazon

Orig.

$266

$205 at Amazon

$240 at Target

Orig.

$227

$196 at Bed Bath & Beyond

Pros

• This faux leather option offers high quality and easy maintenance, all at a lower price point than real leather.

Cons

• The low back might not provide adequate support.

For those who desire the leather look without using actual leather, the Paxton stool by Poly & Bark is an excellent choice. It offers all the elegance of leather while being easier to care for and is more budget-friendly. This stool's contemporary design fits seamlessly into modern or industrial kitchens, and its sturdy welded base can support nearly 300 pounds.

Assembly is notably simple, with just four screws needed, and minimal upkeep required. However, the seat's low backing might lack the support necessary for extended seating.

Seat Height: 24 or 29 inches | Material: Metal and faux leather | Number in Set: Sold individually or in sets of 2 or 3

Best Metal

Orren Ellis Yuvaan Adjustable Height Retro Barstool

PHOTO: Wayfair

$68 at Wayfair

Pros

• Featuring a straightforward retro design, this adjustable metal barstool is functional yet stylish.

Cons

• Its glossy finish is prone to fingerprints and scratches.

Adding a touch of glam is easy with sleek metal bar stools like the Yuvaan by Orren Ellis. Despite its solid metal construction, the ergonomic seat is designed for comfort. Available in black, chrome, and rose gold finishes, this adjustable stool fits a range of counter heights.

Its reflective surface may require regular clean-up from fingerprints and scratches, but its flexibility in height adjustments makes it perfect for any bar or counter setting.

Seat Height: 23 or 31 inches | Material: Metal | Number in Set: Sold individually

Best Rattan

Pottery Barn Parisian Woven Stool

PHOTO: Pottery Barn

$399 at Pottery Barn

Pros

• This charming rattan stool fits various kitchen designs and comes in both bar and counter height options.

Cons

• Rattan is delicate, necessitating careful maintenance.

Suitable for boho, beach-inspired, or bistro-style kitchens, these woven rattan and bamboo bar stools provide warmth and style to your space. Their versatile design also pairs well with modern kitchen decor and can seamlessly transition between spaces.

Keep in mind that rattan is fragile; it needs to be preserved carefully. Avoid cleaning with abrasive materials; a soft cloth for dusting and a damp cloth to clean spills will ensure longevity.

Seat Height: 24 or 30 inches | Material: Woven rattan and bamboo | Number in Set: Sold individually or as a set of 2

Best Upholstered

Kelly Clarkson Home Molly Counter & Bar Stool

PHOTO: Wayfair

$170 at Wayfair

Pros

• This upholstered barstool showcases a seamless blend of styles for an appealing transitional design.

Cons

• The light upholstery can quickly become stained or soiled.

Offering both aesthetic and physical comfort, this upholstered stool by Kelly Clarkson Home features a wingback-style seat on a sturdy metal base, bringing together traditional and industrial styles perfectly. This versatile stool is available in two heights to accommodate various counter and table options.

These stools come in gray and white, but homeowners should be cautious; light upholstery attracts spills that may be harder to clean. However, they generally respond well to quick spot-cleaning, even if some stains require extra attention.

Seat Height: 26 or 30 inches | Material: Metal and fabric upholstery | Number in Set: Sold individually

Best Saddle Style

Pottery Barn Tibetan Stool

PHOTO: Pottery Barn

$79 at Pottery Barn

$129 at Havenly.com

Pros

• These classic saddle bar stools blend effortlessly with any kitchen aesthetic and are simple to store away.

Cons

• Limited to two color options, which may limit choices for some.

Saddle bar stools are a traditional and functional choice for various kitchen styles. The Pottery Barn Tibetan Stool enhances this classic design with subtle curves and artisanal craftsmanship, achieving a rustic yet polished appearance.

Available in black or seadrift, both options are hand-finished and sealed for durability. You can purchase them individually or as a pair, allowing flexibility to create the perfect seating arrangement.

Seat Height: 27 or 31 inches | Material: Wood | Number in Set: Sold individually or as a set of 2

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