There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of how big a living room rug should be. The rug size will depend on the size and layout of your living room, as well as your personal preferences.
However, there are a few general guidelines you can follow to help you choose the right size rug for your space. Let’s explore!
Common Rug Sizes For Living Room
There are a few standard rug sizes that are commonly used for living room rugs.
The most common size is 8 x 10 feet, but you will also see sizes like 9 x 12 feet and 10 x 14 feet. These larger sizes are great for making a statement in your living room.
Another common size is 5 x 7 feet, which is perfect for smaller living rooms or for layering beneath a larger rug.
You can also find rugs in 4 x 6 feet or 6 x 9 feet sizes, which can be used in a variety of ways throughout your living room.
When choosing a rug size for your living room, it is important to take into account the size of your furniture and the layout of the room.
For a Large Room

It’s no surprise that large rooms need a large rug. They offer more floor coverage and can help tie together all the elements in your room.Â
Try to leave 12 to 18 inches of floor space between the area rug and wall.Â
When to Consider a 9'x12' Rug in the Living Room
9’x12′ rugs work great in large living rooms with plenty of space. Dimensions like 11’x13′, 12’x18′, 15’x20′, or larger are perfect for this size rug. You’ll have plenty of room to move around, and the area rug will help to define the space and make it feel cozy.
When to Consider a 8'x'10 Rug in the Living Room
This size of area rug is best for an open floor plan or any room that is 3 feet wider than the rug in width.
For an average size living area, a rug that is 8′ x 10′ will work perfectly in most homes. With this size rug, you have space to set furniture without having to worry about bumping it into the edge of the rug.
For a Smaller Living Room

Small area rugs are best for smaller living rooms. A 6’x9’ or 5’x7′ rug size leaves about 2 feet of flooring on each side.
As a general rule, smaller area rugs are best for smaller living rooms. The reason for this is that larger rugs are usually wider than the width of the room. This creates a visual distortion and makes the room seem smaller.
Another advantage to choosing smaller rug for smaller living rooms is that they will help you save space. When you install small rugs in a small living room, they will add a lot of style and character to the room.
When to Consider a 6'x9' Rug in the Living Room
You should consider a 6’x9′ or 5’x7′ rug in the living room if you are looking to make the most out of the space. This will allow you to have a lot of space on each side of the room. The rug will also create an illusion of the area being bigger than it actually is. This is a good option to choose if you want to save some money.
When to Consider a 5'x7' Rug in the Living Room
A 5’x7′ rug is a good size for a living room with smaller furniture or a more open floor plan. If you have a lot of furniture in your living room, you’ll want to make sure your rug is big enough to fit all of your pieces.
A 5’x7′ rug may be too small for a large living room. Alternatively, if you have a smaller living room or you want your rug to be the focal point, a 5’x7′ rug may be the right rug size.Â
When to Consider a 3'x5' Rug in the Living Room
The choice of a 3’x5′ rug depends on your own personal taste and needs. If you like having a lot of space to move around, then a 3’x5′ rug may be the perfect choice for you. This is because it will allow you to have plenty of room to walk. A 3’x5′ rug will also allow you to place furniture or artwork on the rug.
Another advantage of a 3’x5′ rug is that it is an inexpensive option. You can buy this rug for a very affordable price.
Layering Rugs: Interior Designers Best Kept Secret
If you’re wondering whether you can layer rugs in your living room, the answer is yes! This can actually be a great way to add dimension and interest to the space. Just be sure to choose rugs that complement each other in terms of style and color. And, of course, make sure they’re the right size for the space.

Layering rugs is a very trendy design trend in the interior decorating world. Layering rugs works because of the different patterns, textures and colors they provide. It adds an interesting look to your room, while also making it feel bigger and more lively. To achieve this look, you will need to first pick out rugs with similar patterns and styles. Next, you’ll need to decide which type of rug works best with which rugs.
Living Room Rug Placement: A Few Ideas to Get You Inspired
All Feet On

If your living room is large enough, you can opt for the “all furniture legs on the rug” placement. This will help to create a sense of cohesion and unity in the space. This also helps create a sense of symmetry by placing the rug so that all furniture and décor items are evenly balanced on it.
You’ll want to leave about 8 inches from the edge of your furniture to the edge of your rug. This will ensure that your rug looks great and ties the room together.
No Feet On

This placement means your area rug is under your coffee table, but not your seating.Â
Front Feet On

This is probably the most common rug placement option for living rooms. And for good reason. It creates a clean, polished look.Â
You’ll want the front legs of the sofa or chair to sit about 1/3 deep.Â
This option is aesthetically pleasing. Your living room will appear more pulled together and thought out if you take this small detail into consideration.
Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Living Room Rug
Choosing a Rug That is Too Small
When it comes to choosing a living room rug, one of the biggest mistakes you can make is choosing a rug that is too small. Not only does this make the room look unfinished, but it also makes it look cramped and cluttered.
Instead, opt for an area rug that is large enough to fit the entire space, or at least the majority of it. This will give the room a more polished and put-together look.
Choosing the Wrong Material
Not all materials are created equal when it comes to durability and comfort, so it’s important to do your research before making a decision.
For example, a wool rug might not be the best choice for a high-traffic area like the living room. Instead, you might want to opt for a natural fiber rug or something that’s easier to clean.
Do your research to find the one that’s right for your needs.
Not Investing in a Rug Pad
Another mistake is not investing in a rug pad. Rug pads not only keep your rug in place and add cushioning and comfort, but they also protect your floor from scratches and wear and tear, extending the life of your rug.Â
Choosing the Wrong Rug Pattern
One mistake you don’t want to make is choosing the wrong rug pattern. This can really ruin the look of your living room and make it feel uninviting.
Instead, take some time to think about the overall style you’re going for in your living room and choose a pattern that will complement that.