Wall studs are typically spaced either 16 inches or 24 inches apart on center (measured from the center of one stud to the center of the next). The 16-inch spacing is the most common in residential construction, especially for load- bearing walls, while 24-inch spacing is often used in non-load-bearing walls or where cost efficiency and better insulation are priorities. Spacing may vary depending on the building codes, wall purpose, and construction methods used. In some cases, spacing might be around 19.2 inches or even closer in special structural situations, but 16 and 24 inches on center are the standard measurements to expect.