How Big is a Prison Cell? The Average Size Of Jail Cell

The average size of a prison cell in different countries.

In correctional facilities, prison cells serve as the living quarters for inmates. Generally, most prisons have a common standard regarding cell size.

However, there are also differences in varying countries. In this article, you’ll learn how big a prison cell is, along with the average size of the jail. So, without further ado, let’s get started. 

How Big is a Prison Cell? 

Size of a Prison Cell 

Usually, a prison cell is around 6 feet by 8 feet in size, and the approximate space is 48 square feet. In most places, the general dimension of a prison is 6×8. 

Furniture and Facilities

Some basic furniture inside a prison cell includes a table, chair, bed, and a private bathroom. However, these facilities can vary between prisons.

Some prisons need more furniture and facilities to offer, like providing only a bed and a few places to walk. 

Space Limitations

Inmates in prison may face difficulties in a cell because of its small size. For example, some prison cells are so small that they only have a bed and little space to walk around.

Such little space can restrict their movement. This limited place can lead to an increase in stress. 

How Big is a Jail Cell? 

Size of a Jail Cell

A normal jail cell is about 6 feet by 8 feet in size. It has a total of 48 square foot area. It may seem that jails have the same size as the prison cell. However, the precise size can vary depending on the size of the buildings. 

Furniture and Facilities

There is hardly any furniture in jail cells. Usually, some jails have only a bed, while others don’t even provide a bed. 

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Space Limitations

Jail cells are tiny. Hence, jailbirds have little to no privacy. Most times, inmates have to share cells, limiting their freedom to move around. 

What is the US Prison Cell Size? 

Although prison cell sizes vary in the United States, general standards exist. According to the suggestion of the American Correctional Association, the minimum size of a cell should be 70 square feet, and only one prisoner should be kept in it.

The size of  US Prison cells.

Also, it’s suggested to keep a prison cell dimension from 6 feet by 8 feet to 8 feet by 10 feet. 

What is the UK Jail Cell Size? 

Depending on the facility, jail cells in the UK can vary in size. Usually, the recommended cell size for a jail to hold one person is 75 square feet. However, the cell size in the UK is more minor, measuring only 6.5 meters square. 

What is the Federal Prison Cell Size? 

The Federal Bureau of Prisons in the US decides the required size for federal prison cells. A federal prison cell’s size is generally 6 feet by 9 feet.

These measurements are believed to be the minimum needed to keep one person. Still, reports say there could be various size cells in the federal prison system depending on a particular facility. 

What is German Jail Cell Size?

Germany’s jail cell size can vary like every other facility in the world. However, the Germs Correctional Act offered some guidelines for making jail cells. Keeping a jail cell size of 10 square meters or 107 square feet is suggested. 

Final Words

A general prison size is measured around 6 feet by 8 feet. This space gives an offender 48 square feet of living area, which is not enough.

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Also, inmates live in a little room in jail. Learning about the size of prisons and jail cells can make us understand how inmates endure hardships in confined living conditions.

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