3-Car Garage Dimensions: What You Need to Know Before Building

If you have more than one vehicle or just too much stuff lying around, you have probably thought about getting a bigger garage. But here is the real question: how big should it be?
A 3 car garage is the smart investment with enough space to house all your 3 vehicles.

Many U.S. homeowners are now choosing 3-car steel garages because they offer the perfect balance of space, strength, and style. Planning to park cars, but need extra space for tool storage? It can fit all your needs smoothly. But, before you pick a plan or start building, let’s break down everything you need to know, from how big is a 3 car garage to cost, design options, and the key factors that make your investment worth every dollar.

What Is a 3 Car Metal Garage?

If you are going to buy a garage for your cars for the first time, this is for you.

A 3-car garage is a spacious structure designed to park three cars or vehicles comfortably. You can store them side by side or in a combination of parking and storage spaces. Homeowners usually build it to keep their vehicles safe from harsh weather, add value to their property, or create extra room for hobbies, tools, or seasonal storage. A 3-car steel garage is especially popular among American homeowners because it’s durable, low-maintenance, and can be customized to fit different needs. So, whether you are a car enthusiast, have a growing family, or simply need more space, this type of garage can meet your needs effectively.

How Big Is a 3-Car Garage?

But how can it meet the needs effectively? Is it large enough? Here, you need first to understand how wide is a 3 car garage. The answer depends on your personal needs, vehicle sizes, and whether you want additional workspace or storage. The typical three-car steel garage size varies based on design preference, door arrangement, and the type of vehicles being stored.

If you have small cars, a compact layout will work the best. But if you have larger vehicles like SUVs, vans, or trucks, you will require a bigger structure. The average footprint gives each car enough room to open doors without bumping into another vehicle, as well as space for walking and storage around the edges.

But having an idea of sizes is crucial. This is why we have shared dimensions of 3 car metal garage that typically fall within some ranges. Most people use 3 car steel garages from this range.

Dimensions of 3 Car Metal Garage:

• Width: 24 to 40 ft.
• Length: 20 to 50 ft.
• Height: 9 to 14 ft.

These numbers give builders a base to start planning. The dimensions of a 3 car prefab garage can change depending on what’s inside. For example, if you are parking three standard sedans, a smaller size works fine. But for full-size trucks or SUVs, you will need more width and length. The minimum size of a 3-car parking garage is usually 20 ft. wide x 30 ft. long, giving you about 600 square feet of area. This compact setup fits smaller vehicles but leaves little space to move around. If you own bigger cars or want a small storage corner, go for at least 30 ft. wide x 30 ft. long.

For tall vehicles or those who plan to install lifts, choose a garage height between 12 to 14 feet. That allows safe clearance and flexibility for future upgrades. Long story short, when thinking about how wide a three car metal garage is, remember that comfort and functionality matter just as much as fitting three vehicles.

Other Common Three-Car Garage Sizes Are

Here are the most common three car garage dimensions homeowners across the U.S. prefer. Knowing them will help you determine what size garage can fit your vehicles.

• 30 x 24 ft. – A balanced option for three cars with limited storage.
• 36 x 26 ft. – A little extra space for shelves or a small workspace.
• 38 x 26 ft. – Great for SUVs or family vehicles, offering more walking room.
• 40 x 30 ft. – Spacious enough for large vehicles, workbenches, and storage.
• 30 x 70 ft. – Ideal for combining parking, storage, and even a home workshop.

Each size fits different lifestyles. A family with everyday sedans may prefer the 30 x 24 ft. setup, while a contractor or collector may choose 40 x 30 ft. or more. Some property owners add a garage with lean to on one side for extra covered storage. It’s perfect for garden tools, firewood, or small outdoor equipment. A lean-to keeps the main garage area clean and organized without requiring a separate structure. For homes with limited driveway space, side entry garages make a stylish and practical choice. The doors open from the side rather than the front, offering easier access and better use of narrow lots.

How to Decide on the Size of Your 3 Car Garage

Knowing the dimensions helps determine the total size, but the size can be incorrect if you have not analyzed your needs correctly. So, choosing the right 3-car garage size depends on how you plan to use it. Here’s what you should consider before finalizing your dimensions:

• Measure Your Vehicles: Start by measuring your vehicles you want to store inside the metal garage. If you are planning to store one more vehicle in the near future, it’s better to consider it now. Include the length, width, and height of all the vehicles. Remember, SUVs and trucks need wider bays and taller doors, so plan accordingly.
• Plan for Extra Space: A slightly extra space will never disappoint you. Even if you are only parking three vehicles, always include a few extra feet for comfort. It allows more effortless movement, space for tools, and avoids accidental dings when opening doors.
• Think About Storage: Do you want storage for bikes, gardening tools, or seasonal decorations? You might need an extra 5–10 feet of length or width for cabinets or a small workbench. Some homeowners use one section of their garage purely for storage, and that’s when designs like a Garage with lean to or side utility room become ideal.
• Check Local Building Rules: Always check local building codes, permits, and HOA restrictions before you finalize your plan. This way, you can find out about the maximum height, setback distance, or even the type of materials allowed for construction in your location. It’s a safe and smart move to install a garage for 3 cars.
• Set Your Budget: Without setting a budget, you can end up with either a tight space or too large. The final size depends on your budget. But remember, a slightly larger garage adds more convenience and can even increase property value.
• Choose the Right Layout: The Design of a garage can be of your choice and needs because the structure is customizable. You can choose from front entry, side entry, and tandem parking. Side entry designs often look more elegant and fit better in large garages, such as 3-car and 4-car garages.
• Think About Functionality: If you plan to use the space for hobbies or mechanical work, you might want higher ceilings or more outlets. Taller garages are great for installing lifts or mezzanines. By thinking long-term and balancing practicality with cost, you can choose the ideal design that meets both your needs and your budget.

What Is the Cost of a 3 Car Steel Garage?

The cost of a three-car steel garage can vary depending on design, materials, and customization. A basic pre-engineered structure with a vertical roof starts at $6,495. But if you want to customize and want a larger space, the price can go up to $15,000 or more, depending on the customization you’re doing.

Several factors influence pricing:

• Size and dimensions: Larger garages use more material and labor.
• Steel gauge: Thicker steel costs more but provides better durability.
• Roof type: Vertical roofs usually cost more than horizontal ones but shed water and snow more efficiently.
• Foundation type: A concrete slab base is more expensive than gravel or asphalt but adds strength and longevity.
• Doors and windows: Adding roll-up or automatic doors increases cost but improves convenience.
• Customization: Features like insulation and interior partitions add both comfort and expense.
• Labor and location: Installation costs can vary by state, accessibility, and site preparation needs.

Prefab structures help control cost because they come with pre-measured parts and simple assembly instructions. However, if you want a fully custom look with specific door placements or added rooms, expect a higher investment.

Final Thought

So, measure your vehicles, consider future and storage needs, know any construction restrictions, and all the factors that help you install a garage without any mistakes. From compact 30 x 24 ft. setups to large 40 x 30 ft. layouts, understanding your three car garage dimensions helps you design a space that fits your lifestyle. Choose a layout that allows comfort, mobility, and flexibility for future upgrades. If you don’t have time to decide all the things yourself and need someone who can do all the analysis for you, find the best metal garage building dealer. They will understand all your needs and suggest the best solutions.