American flag for house

At AmericanFlags.com, one of the most popular questions we receive is, “What flag size should I buy for my house?” While shopping for a flag may seem straightforward, don’t underestimate the importance of choosing the appropriate size for your home. Many people don’t realize that choosing the wrong flag size can shorten the lifespan of both your flagpole and flag or make it look out of place with its surroundings.  

In our latest blog post, we break down the answer, so you can choose the perfect-sized flag for your needs. Understanding the importance of flag dimensions is one of the best ways to ensure your flag display looks great and lasts longer. 

What American Flag Size Should I Buy for My Home? 

The right-sized flag for your home depends on which flagpole you plan to use. If you’re installing an in-ground flagpole, the longest side of your flag should be between one-fourth and one-third of the pole’s total length. For example, a 20’ flagpole (the most common size for homes) should fly either a 3’x5’ or a 4’x6’ flag.   

If using a wall-mount flagpole, or a porch flagpole, your flagpole should be twice the width of the flag. For example, you should use a 3’x5’ flag on a 6’ flagpole. At 3’, the width will cover approximately half of the flagpole.  

American flag hanging outside of a house American flag hanging outside of a house

What Are the Most Common American Flag Sizes for the Home? 

When choosing the best U.S. flag for your home, you’ll want to consider the height of the flagpole, whether you’re mounting it on a wall or freestanding pole, and how it will look in your chosen location. While American flags come in different sizes, there are four that are most common for residential use. 

3’x5’ American Flag 

The 3’x5’  U.S. flag is extremely popular since it’s well-suited for residences and small commercial buildings. It works best when paired with a 20’ freestanding or 6’ wall-mounted flagpole. For reference, a 3’x5’ flag is roughly the size of a 60” TV, making it an excellent choice for hanging on a wall as well. If you’re interested in hanging a 3’x5’ porch flag, AmericanFlags.com has two flag set options: 

Spinning U.S. Flag Set 

Our U.S. Flag Set with a Spinning Flagpole comes with everything you need to display your patriotic pride and is proudly made in the U.S.A.! Unlike traditional flagpoles, spinning flagpoles rotate as the wind changes direction to prevent the flag from wrapping around the flagpole. In addition to a spinning flagpole, this flag set comes with an adjustable bracket, a 3’x5’ American flag with a pole sleeve, and a gold ball top.  

Polished Steel Tint 6’ Flagpole Kit 

Our Value US Flag Kit is the perfect kit to start a new flag display; it’s lightweight and durable. It includes a polycotton printed American flag, a three-piece steel pole, and a gold eagle pole topper.  

All AmericanFlags.com 3’x5’ flags are crafted from high-quality materials and built to last. Our most popular products — Tough Tex American Flags and our All-American All-Weather Nylon Flags include durable brass grommets, embroidered stars, and reinforced stitching on the fly ends. 

2’x3’ American Flags 

Some people with smaller residences prefer the look of a smaller flag, which is why we offer many different sizes of flags, including our 2’x3’ United States flag. Since these flags are slightly smaller than our 3’x5’ versions, pair them with a 5’ flagpole for the best fit. If you’re interested in this size, we recommend our Spinning Pole Accessory Kit, which includes: 

  • 1 - 5’ two-piece brushed aluminum silver spinning pole with ball topper and attachment clip
  • 1 - plastic collar for the flag’s bottom grommet
  • 1 - multi-position silver cast aluminum bracket
  • All mounting hardware 

2’x3’ flags let you display your patriotism without taking up much space, making them ideal for apartments, homes, and small businesses. 

2 ½’ x 4’ American Flags 

A 2 ½’ x 4’ American flag is perfect for anyone looking for something in between the 2’x3’ and 3’x5’ sizes. They work best on a 5’ flagpole and offer the same features and benefits as the 2’x3’ option. 

4’x6’ American Flags 

These flags are not typically used on porches but rather flown atop a 20’ – 25’ in-ground flagpole. However, very large residences wanting to make a statement can mount them using our Heavy-Duty Residential & Commercial U.S. Flag Set

balcony with bunting and flags balcony with bunting and flags

Can I Fly a Larger Flag on My Home? 

Flags larger than 4’x6’ are more commonly flown by businesses rather than homes, but depending on your available space and flagpole size, it is possible. Listed below is a guide for flagpoles in residential and commercial settings. 

  • 20' flagpole / 3' X 5' flag
  • 25' flagpole / 4' X 6' flag
  • 30' - 35' flagpole / 5' X 8' flag
  • 40' - 45' flagpole / 6' X 10' flag
  • 50' flagpole / 8' X 12' flag
  • 60' - 65' flagpole / 10' X 15' or 10' X 19' flag
  • 70' flagpole / 12' X 18' or 15' X 25' flag
  • 80' flagpole / 20' X 30' or 20' X 38' flag
  • 100' flagpole / 25' X 40' flag
  • 120' flagpole / 30' X 50' flag 

For more tips and tricks, checkout our guide on choosing the right flag.  

What Fabric Should I Choose For My American Flag? 

When choosing your flag’s fabric, there are multiple options, but the most popular are nylon and polyester. Nylon flags are excellent for all-weather use; the lightweight material is the preferred choice for wall-mounted flagpoles since they are less likely to cause excess strain when wet.  

Polyester is the preferred material for outdoor flags in areas that experience heavy winds, but when wet could break an outrigger flagpole due to the added weight.  

For more information on what flag fabric to use, check out our resource guide, "Nylon vs. Polyester Flags: A Complete Guide to American Flag Selection.

Eliminate the Hassle of Flag Shopping with AmericanFlags.com 

AmericanFlags.com has an extensive selection of American flag kits that include everything you need to start your own flag display! Some of our top sellers include: 

Regal Never Furl Flagpole Kit with U.S. Flag 

Our Regal Never Furl Flagpole Kit is perfect for windy regions and features a durable, tangle-free design. 

6 Ft. Flagpole Kit with Solar Light 

Effortlessly illuminate your American flag for the ultimate patriotic display day and night! Our 6 Ft. Flagpole Kit comes with a LED solar light for lasting illumination. 

Patriot Residential Aluminum Flagpole Set 

Are you looking to install an in-ground flagpole in front of your house? Make a statement at your home with our Patriot Residential Aluminum Flagpole Set. This flagpole set comes with a five-piece aluminum flagpole, a 3’x5’ nylon American flag, and a gold flagpole topper. 

Military Flags 

  • U.S. Army
  • Marine Corps
  • Air Force
  • Navy
  • Coast Guard
  • POW/MIA 

State Flags 

  • California
  • Florida
  • South and North Carolina
  • New York
  • Texas
  • Washington
  • Pennsylvania 

We also offer display flags for multiple occasions for holidays like Independence Day and the Fourth of July. Flag styles include: 

With over 20 years in the industry, AmericanFlags.com proudly sells the highest quality flags that are always made in America. For more information or for help choosing the perfect flag for your home, contact one of our friendly customer care representatives today!