Pickleball Net Height: 36 in Sides, 34 in Center
The official pickleball net height, how it compares to a tennis net, how to measure it, and how to set up a portable net correctly.
What this page covers
Net height is 36 inches at the sidelines and 34 inches at the center.
The center strap creates the 2-inch dip in the middle.
Pickleball nets sit lower than tennis nets at both points.
Measure from the surface to the top of the net to confirm.
Official source
This plain-English guide was reviewed against the official USA Pickleball rules resources. Check event or league rules as well when a local format differs.
The official numbers
A regulation pickleball net measures 36 inches high at the sidelines and 34 inches high at the center. The net is hung slightly higher at the posts and pulled down in the middle by a center strap, which is why the lowest point over the middle of the court is 34 inches. This is the same for singles and doubles.
Pickleball vs tennis net height
| Sport | Height at posts | Height at center | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pickleball | 36 in | 34 in | Center strap sets the 34 in center height. |
| Tennis | 42 in | 36 in | Higher at both the posts and the center. |
Because a tennis net is 2 inches higher at the center, playing pickleball on a tennis net without lowering it makes drops and dinks harder and changes the height of every shot near the kitchen.
How to measure and set a portable net
- Assemble the net frame on a flat surface and center it across the court.
- Tension the net so the top tape is straight, not sagging, between the posts.
- Measure from the surface to the top of the net at a sideline post; aim for 36 inches.
- Measure at the exact center; adjust the center strap until it reads 34 inches.
- Re-check both points after play, since portable nets can loosen over time.
Related setup guides
See the full court dimensions and diagram, or read how to play pickleball on a tennis court and lower the net safely.
Quick answers
What is the official pickleball net height?
A pickleball net is 36 inches high at the sidelines and 34 inches high at the center. The 2-inch dip in the middle is created by a center strap that pulls the net down to 34 inches.
Is a pickleball net the same height as a tennis net?
No. A pickleball net is lower. Tennis nets are 42 inches at the posts and 36 inches at the center, while pickleball nets are 36 inches at the posts and 34 inches at the center. If you convert a tennis court, lower the net for pickleball.
How do you measure pickleball net height?
Use a tape measure from the playing surface to the top of the net. Check 34 inches at the exact center, then check 36 inches near each sideline post, and adjust the center strap until the middle reads 34 inches.