Christmas Tree Size Calculator
Enter your ceiling height, the shape of tree you want and, if you like, the space you have for it. The calculator uses the rules in our Christmas tree size guide: about a foot less than the ceiling, a full tree about two-thirds as wide as it is tall, and a clear path around it.
How the calculator sizes it
- Height: your ceiling height less about 12 inches, which covers the stand and a topper. An 8-foot ceiling takes a 7-foot tree.
- Width: full trees run about 55 to 75 percent as wide as they are tall; slim trees about half; pencil trees narrower still. Listings give the diameter at the widest point, near the bottom.
- Space: leave at least 30 inches clear on any path people walk through, plus room in front of the tree for presents.
- Lights: about 100 per foot of height for a classic look.
- Ornaments: 10 to 20 per foot of height, more if they're small.
- Check whether the listed height includes the stand. If the stand is sold separately or the topper is tall, leave a little more.
Quick reference
| Ceiling height | Tallest tree | Full tree, across | Slim tree, across |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7.5 ft | 6.5 ft | about 43–59 in. | about 39 in. |
| 8 ft | 7 ft | about 46–63 in. | about 42 in. |
| 9 ft | 8 ft | about 53–72 in. | about 48 in. |
| 10 ft | 9 ft | about 59–81 in. | about 54 in. |
| 12 ft | 11 ft | about 73–99 in. | about 66 in. |
Frequently asked questions
What size Christmas tree for an 8-foot ceiling?
A 7-foot tree. Subtract about 12 inches from the ceiling height to leave room for the stand and a topper.
How wide is a 7-foot Christmas tree?
A full 7-foot tree is usually about 4 to 5 feet across at the bottom; a slim one is closer to 3½ feet. Check the listed diameter and tape it out on the floor.
How many lights do I need for a 7-foot tree?
About 700, using the rule of thumb of 100 lights per foot of height. Use more for a dense glow, fewer for a softer look.