Affordable Counter Height Bar Stools with Backs

When we remodeled our kitchen a few years ago, we built a counter height bench to go at our kitchen island. At first I really loved it because the kids couldn’t drag it around and it fits three kids (four if they’re really young).

white kitchen with counter height bench at island

However, after living with it for a few years, we realized that no one liked to sit there. Why? Two reasons: it’s uncomfortable to sit with no back support and because it was one long surface, it became a place that clutter would build up.

So as a test, I swapped the bench for two counter height bar stools that I already had. They go with the counter height craft table in my studio. And guess what? Now we all sit at the island and the chairs don’t gather junk!

counter height black bar stools in a white kitchen with blue island

Isn’t that interesting? You just never know the little things that will or won’t work in your home. I’m glad I tried out the counter height stools because it gave me confidence that it’s worth spending money for new stools. But I do need to put those stools back where they belong eventually.

That means I’ve been shopping for affordable counter height bar stools with backs and I thought I’d share my favorites with you today in case you’re also looking.

Pamela 26.5″ Counter Stool Set of 2
AllModern Solid Wood Spindle Stool Set of 2
Odis Solid Wood Stool
Yanique Bar & Counter Stool
Laceyville Counter Stool Set of 2
Spindle Counter Stool Set of 2

7. Farthin Counter Stool
8. Dunlop Modern Geometric Counter Stool Set of 2
9. Wong Solid Wood Counter Stool
10. Kinsey Bar Stool Set of 2
11. Courtdale Solid Wood Counter Stool
12. Dovercliff Counter Stool

I like each of these stools for different reasons and they are all on the more affordable side. #3 is a dead ringer for the x-back black chairs I have in my craft room and I love them. They’re sturdy and comfortable.

There’s a huge range of styles though, so I’m trying to decide which way to lean aesthetically. Should I go traditional? Funky? Farmhouse? It’s so hard to pick!