08.04.25
 

How to Pick the Perfect Size House Numbers

It might seem like a small decision, but choosing the right size house numbers can make a big difference in how your home is seen. Whether you're welcoming guests, expecting deliveries, or just giving your home a modern refresh, house numbers are one of the easiest ways to add personality and practicality to your exterior.

At Modern House Numbers, our numbers come in five sizes—4", 6", 8", 12", and 15" and if you're not sure which one’s right for your project, you're in the right place. Below are our Top 3 tips for choosing the perfect size house numbers, with extra insight on visibility, placement, and style to help you feel confident in your choice.


TIP 1: Pick Your Location

Before anything else, decide where your house numbers will go, and then always make sure to measure your space. Are you mounting your address horizontally on a landscape wall? Vertically next to the front door? Will they be above the garage or on the mailbox?

Knowing the dimensions of your installation area helps you figure out what size will fit best. We have some handy tools to help with this! Just head to the Resources tab on the Modern House Numbers website, where you’ll find Product Widths by font and size, plus Visibility Guides that walk you through the planning process.

Pro tip: Don’t forget to allow for proper spacing between the numbers! Crowded numbers can be hard to read, especially from a distance.


TIP 2: Follow Visibility Guide

We get this question all the time: “How big should my house numbers be so they’re visible from the street?” The answer depends on how far your home sits from the road.

If you’re trying to decide between, say, 4-inch and 6-inch numbers, our Visibility Guide will help. Here's a quick reference:

  • Up to 50 feet → Go with 4 inches

  • Up to 100 feet → Try 6 inches

  • Up to 150 feet 8 inches will shine

  • Up to 200 feet → You’ll want 12 inches

  • Over 300 feet Go bold with our 15 inch size

The goal? Make sure your numbers can be seen easily by visitors, delivery drivers, and most importantly, first responders. It’s not just about looks; it’s about safety.

And remember: our most popular size is 6 inch, since it works beautifully for most homes and delivers great visibility without overwhelming your design.


TIP 3: Trust Your Eye

If you have the space, go big! Large-format house numbers not only increase visibility—they make a bold, modern statement that adds curb appeal and elevates your home's style.

  • 8 inch and 12 inch numbers are loved by design-forward homeowners who want their address to stand out.

  • 15 inch is our largest and boldest option—perfect for large homes, long driveways, and commercial or business properties.

We like to say: Don’t be afraid to be brave with your size choice. A well-sized number makes your home memorable and easier to find.


Other Smart Considerations

Local Regulations

Before ordering, check your local building codes. Some cities and HOAs have specific rules about number height, color, placement, or materials. Typical requirements include:

  • Minimum height (often 4 inches or more)

  • Clear contrast from the background (for visibility day and night)

  • Facing the street named in your address

  • Not being blocked by trees or landscaping

Materials That Last

All of our house numbers are crafted from durable, weather-resistant aluminum. Unlike materials such as wood and plastic, our numbers are durable. In fact, they are rust and corrosion-resistant, keeping them beautiful for years to come. For coastal and industrial areas we recommend a powder coat finish to best contend with the environmental conditions. 


Final Thoughts

To wrap it up, remember these three key points:

  1. Location – Measure your space and check your layout.

  2. Visibility – Use our guide to choose a size that can be read from the street.

  3. Trust yourself – Choose a size that fits your personality and your property.

Whether you want something subtle or something bold, we’ve got the perfect size and style for your project. And if you need help picking the right size, just visit the Sizing + Visibility or Design Guide section of our site, we’ve made it easy.

Ready to elevate your curb appeal with handcrafted, high-quality house numbers?
Contact us at Modern House Numbers, we’re here to help you get it just right. 

Need more inspiration? Watch our Video Tutorial!

 

Picture of the Author

Rick is a licensed architect at Repp McLain Design & Construction. He holds a Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Arizona and an MS from the Department of Architecture at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). When he’s not designing and fabricating he enjoys spending time with Brandy, Jack, Avery & Taylor and restoring his grandfather’s Ford pickup truck. Learn more about Rick on LinkedIn.

You can learn more about Rick on the , on LinkedIn, at the AIA Website, or on Facebook.

You may also be interested in:
How to Create Custom House Numbers That Stand Out
08.22.25

How to Create Custom House Numbers That Stand Out

Most homes blend into their surroundings; not because they’re poorly designed, but because the finer details are overlooked. Custom house numbers are one of those details. They're not just identifiers; they're statements. Well-designed signage enhances curb appeal, complements architecture, and improves functionality. But standing out doesn’t mean going over the top; it means making informed design choices that align with...


READ MORE
Top Benefits of Using a Curb Stencil for Your Address
08.21.25

Top Benefits of Using a Curb Stencil for Your Address

Clear address visibility is more than just a convenience, it's a necessity. In emergency situations, every second counts. If first responders can’t easily spot a house number, critical time is lost. The same applies to deliveries, service visits, and even guests trying to find your home. While traditional methods like door numbers and mailbox plaques are helpful, they’re often not...


READ MORE