AVERAGE COSTS
In 2024, the average price of a home in the U.S. was around $438,837. As a general rule of thumb, you can expect to spend 20–30% of a home’s purchasing price on furniture to reflect the value of the home. This means you could spend at least $87,700 on furnishing an average sized home around 2,600 square foot from scratch.
Furnishing costs vary wildly depending on your needs, budget and what you already own. It helps to get a general idea of a moderate budget for each main room in the home and make personal adjustments from there.
LIVING ROOM
The living room is what guests are most likely to see and it’s where we spend much of our downtime. Here’s what furnishing a living room on a moderate budget might look like:
Sofa: $1,000
Lamps (2): $200 each
Coffee Table: $400
Side Tables (2): $100 each
Drapery: $200
Area Rug: $300
Pillows (4): $100 each
Mirror: $300
Accessories and Décor: $200
Total Cost = $4,000
DINING ROOM
The dining room is where we gather with families and friends for dinners and special occasions. Here’s what furnishing a dining room on a moderate budget might look like:
Dining Table: $500
Dining Chairs (6): $200 each
Mirror: $150
Buffet: $500
Lamps (2): $200
Accessories and Décor: $150
Total Cost = $3,000
BEDROOM
The bedroom is a sanctuary from the outside world. Here’s what furnishing a bedroom on a moderate budget might look like:
Bed: $600
Sheets and Pillowcases: $200
Rug: $300
Mirror: $300
Table Lamps (2): $75 each
Dresser: $600
Nightstands (2): $300 each
Accessories and Décor: $150
Total Cost = $2,900
HOME OFFICE
Home offices are highly practical rooms and essential for many of us. Here’s what furnishing a home office on a moderate budget might look like:
Desk: $100–$500
Office Chair: $80–$300
Lighting: $300
Cabinets and Storage: $200–$800
Office Supplies: $100
Color and Décor: $150
Total Cost = $930–$2,150
This list does not include equipment like a desktop, monitor, printer and scanner. Home office necessities will vary based on your needs and the nature of your work.
EXPERT TIPS TO SAVE
The following tips can help you save big on furniture:
- Utilize garage sales and online marketplaces for used furniture.
- Strive for quality over quantity by investing in furniture that will last you a lifetime.
- Take advantage of seasonal sales cycles, especially at the end of summer and winter.
- Start with the rooms you’ll be spending more time in.
- Utilize garage sales and online marketplaces for used furniture.
Furnishing your new space is a rewarding experience. Planning ahead will go a long way toward reaching your goals. If you have questions about how to budget for your new home, give me a call!
