For typical interior walls in a house, the go‑to thickness is 1/2 inch drywall.

Quick Scoop

Standard answer (most homes)

  • Most interior walls in bedrooms, living rooms, and hallways use 1/2" drywall because it balances strength, weight, and cost.
  • It’s considered the standard thickness for residential interior walls and many ceilings.

When you might use other thicknesses

  • 1/4" drywall
    • Very thin and flexible, used mainly for curved walls or layering over existing walls, not as the main wall surface.
  • 3/8" drywall
    • Sometimes used for remodels or to repair old plaster, but not common as primary wall board today.
  • 5/8" drywall
    • Thicker and heavier, better for sound control and fire resistance, often used on shared walls, in garages, or where code requires fire‑rated board.

Walls vs ceilings and special areas

  • Ceilings : Often 5/8" is recommended to reduce sagging, especially with wider joist spacing.
  • Bathrooms/kitchens : 1/2" works, but you typically choose a moisture‑resistant type near tubs, showers, and sinks.
  • Garage walls/ceilings next to living space : Frequently require 5/8" fire‑rated (Type X) drywall by code.

Simple rule of thumb

  • If you’re asking “what thickness drywall for walls?” in a normal interior room and no special code issues:
    • Use 1/2 inch drywall on the studs.
  • If the wall needs extra fire protection or soundproofing (like a wall to a garage or between units):
    • Consider 5/8 inch fire‑rated drywall , and check your local building code or inspector.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.