Depending on the size, style, and quality you’re looking for, couches can range from affordable to downright expensive, typically costing anywhere from $500 to $5,000.

Lower-priced couches are smaller, have less padding, and are usually made from synthetic materials like polyester or vinyl, while higher-end models feature leather upholstery, quality frames, and comfortable padding.

You’ll also need to consider other factors when buying a couch, such as delivery and installation costs, whether or not the couch comes with a warranty, and whether or not you’ll want to finance your purchase. 

This article will help you understand the average cost of couches, give other factors that affect their cost, and provide tips on smart couch shopping.

The average price of a couch depends on whether you’re buying a budget, mid-range, high quality or luxury piece of furniture. A small budget loveseat costs as little as $300, while a larger sectional sofa could run up to $2,000. Classic leather couches, customized to your liking, could cost $3,000, while luxurious pieces made with expensive fabrics, hardwood frames, and intricate details may cost up to $10,000. 

 Here’s a breakdown of the average cost of couches based on materials used and construction:

• Budget couches (below $1,000): These have a simple design with limited customization options, restricted fabric choices, and basic construction. They feature a cardboard frame with low-quality foam or polyester cushions, lacking comfort and durability.
• Mid-range couches ($1,000-$1,500): More comfortable than their budget counterparts, these couches feature quality materials and a sturdy frame of plywood and little solid wood. The cushion stuffing is denser, with the seating featuring S-shaped sinuous springs to ensure comfort and durability. You can choose from a few designs, upholstery, and customization options.
• Higher quality couches ($1,500-$3,000): Strong, comfortable, and appealing designs are the defining features of these couches. High-quality cushions and cushion stuffing are used with a strong kiln-dried solid hardwood frame. The upholstery is usually made of high-grade leather or fabric and features a variety of colors, styles, and customization options.
• Luxury couches ($3,000-$10,000): These are made with the highest quality materials and feature intricate stitching, durable upholstery, premium cushion stuffing, and frames made of kiln-dried solid hardwood. The designs are sophisticated, the customizations unlimited, and the quality is incomparable. They are handmade to a customer’s specifications and expectations to fit the living room and complement the interior design perfectly.

When purchasing a new couch, consider the quality of materials, construction, and design. Don’t be lured in by low prices, as cheap couches are made with inferior materials and won’t last long. Instead, look for a couch within your budget that offers good quality and comfort.

Furniture prices have fluctuated over recent years due to inflation and other factors, but there are several things that always contribute to the price differences we see in new sofas. 

For example, how you’re planning on using the couch and what kind of style of couch you’re looking for can increase or decrease the price. Related to these, upholstery, size, materials, construction, and delivery can also affect the overall cost of your purchase. 

Here is a detailed overview of some of these factors affecting a new sofa’s cost:

Function 

A couch intended for a busy family room needs a comfortable, padded, and durable frame to withstand daily use. An elegant chaise for an entryway needs a stylish frame and high-quality seat cushions to provide a comfortable place to sit and relax. 

For less frequented rooms, like the sitting room or the den, a cheap couch with less padding and a basic frame will suffice. It also helps to consider how well the fabric handles staining, spills, and other everyday wear and tear. If you have young children and pets, consider upholstery fabrics that are stain resistant and easy to clean, like vinyl or leather.

Type and style

Your personal style and interior design will also influence the type of couch you pick and, ultimately, the price you pay. 

Do you prefer neutral tones, bold colors, modern styles, or classic designs? Do you need a sectional for optimal seating space or an armless chair for the corner of your living room? 

Here are the different sofa types and styles to choose from:

• Modular
• Sectional
• Chesterfield
• Futon
• Sleeper Sofa
• Lawson
• Recliner
• Pillow back
• Low seated
• Contemporary
• English roll arm
• Loveseat

Each type and style has its design, features, customization options, and cost. Minimalist and mid-century designs are cheaper than ornate and classic designs as they are easier to manufacture.

Upholstery and fabric

The type of fabric and upholstery you choose affects the couch’s overall look, feel, comfort, and price. High-quality fabrics such as leather, velvet, and linen are more expensive than low-grade, synthetic fibers such as polyester, cotton, microfiber, and faux leather. 

Leather is the most expensive but offers maximum durability, elegance, and comfort. It also has excellent stain resistance and is easy to clean and maintain. Velvet has a luxurious feel that adds a touch of opulence to your home but requires proper care and maintenance to prevent dust accumulation and fading. 

Linen is breathable and lightweight and is less expensive than leather and velvet. Polyester is the most affordable option and is stain-resistant but not as durable or comfortable as the other fabrics.

Size

Couch sizes vary from compact loveseats to large sectionals depending on the available space and seating needs. Smaller couches are cheaper as they require less materials, labor, and storage space. 

Larger couches have more seating space that requires extra fabric, materials, and labor. They also have extra features like armrests, footrests, back cushions, and recliner options, which add to the overall cost. 

Typically you want to opt for a size that comfortably fits the room without overcrowding it for a cohesive, balanced look.

Construction and durability

A couch’s construction and the materials used in its frame, cushions, and upholstery will affect its overall quality, durability, and price. Sofas with a strong internal frame made from kiln-dried hardwood, steel, and aluminum are the sturdiest and most durable but more expensive. 

Their sturdy webbing and sinuous springs provide extra support and superior comfort. Sofas with cheap frames have a lower price tag and may look appealing initially, but this fast furniture is not as good as long-lasting furniture as it’s more prone to structural damage.

Comfort and cushions

Comfort should be the ultimate priority when shopping for a new piece of furniture. Soft cushions, ample seating space, and good lumbar support will ensure maximum comfort and relaxation. Couches with high-density foam cushions, adjustable backrests, throw pillows, and plush armrests offer a more comfortable seating experience.

The type of cushioning you choose also affects the price. Foam, feather, down, and fiber cushions are the most common options, with foam being the cheapest and down being the most expensive. 

Low-quality cushions of cheap sofas will flatten or sag over time, affecting the overall comfort of the sofa. It’s best to invest in high-end cushions that provide good lumbar support and are soft yet firm to ensure maximum comfort and longevity.

Warranty

Many retailers and furniture stores offer warranties that cover manufacturing defects, structural flaws, and fabric damage. Investing in a good warranty can save you from costly repairs and replacements in the future. Read the store’s warranty policy to understand what’s covered and what’s not. 

It’s also important to register the purchase with the store or manufacturer for a valid warranty.

Delivery costs

Delivery costs vary from store to store and depend on the size of the couch, distance from the store, and access to the premises. Some stores offer free delivery with minimum purchase amounts or as part of promotional discounts, while others charge a flat rate or by the mile. 

According to HomeAdvisor, local shipping costs $170, while cross-country shipping, on average, costs $450. It’s best to shop around for the best delivery options and compare prices to get a good deal. Alternatively, you can pick up the couch from the store to avoid delivery charges and save money.

Furniture financing

Furniture financing is a payment plan that allows you to purchase a couch on credit and pay in monthly installments. It has a set repayment period with varying interest rates and usually requires an initial down payment followed by periodic payments.

You must make the payments on time and within the agreed repayment period to avoid any late fees or penalties that may significantly increase the cost of the couch. 

Other drawbacks associated with furniture financing, such as high interest rates, long repayment periods, and hidden costs, make it a less cost-effective option. Late or missing payments can also damage your credit score.

An alternative to relying on financing to purchase your dream couch is to adopt creative money-saving strategies that will help you make your purchase debt free. 

For example, using Accrue Savings, a revolutionary financial platform that helps people set savings goals and make affordable deposits to their wallets, can help you purchase your new furniture without relying on financing or buy now, pay later options.

Buying a new couch is an investment. It pays to be informed about what you’re buying. Here are some tips to help you shop smarter for your next couch purchase. 

1. Measure your space first (including doorways)

Measuring the space where you plan to place the couch will help you assess how much it can fit and what kind of couch is best suited for the space. Measure the doorways, staircases, and hallways through which you’ll have to move the couch from the store to your home. This will help you avoid complications during delivery.

2. Research brands and retailers

Don’t settle for the first couch you see—research different brands and retailers to compare prices, features, warranties, and quality standards. Get recommendations from friends and family, read customer reviews, and compare prices online. Reputable brands and retailers offer high-quality fabrics, materials, and construction that enhance the comfort and durability of your couch.

3. Determine its function

What do you intend to use the couch for? Is it for everyday use or occasional seating? Do you plan to use it for sleeping, lounging, or entertaining? The purpose of the couch will determine its size, shape, and upholstery material. A living room couch should be plush, comfortable, and strong enough to withstand regular use, while a guestroom couch should be lightweight, stylish, and easy to move around.

4. Understand who will be using it

Who will be using the couch? Kids, pets, and adults have different needs when it comes to seating. If you have kids or pets, choose upholstery materials that are easy to clean and resistant to spills, stains, and pet dander. 

A leather sofa is a classic choice as it’s stylish and handles roughhousing better than most upholstery fabrics. Adults prioritize comfort and require wider seating, deeper cushions, and support for the lower back.

5. Use a savings platform like Accrue

You don’t have to take out high interest loans through furniture financing to purchase the perfect couch. Accrue Savings’ innovative savings platform lets you save for your dream couch in small, budget-friendly payments. You can deposit as little as $1 a week or $50 a month into your Accrue wallet and watch your savings grow. 

The platform also helps you earn cash rewards while you save, helping you faster realize your goals. Accrue Savings partners with American Signature and Value City Furniture brands to help you save more on couches.

Save for your next sofa with Accrue Savings

Buying a new couch doesn’t have to strain your budget. With Accrue Savings, you can avoid the additional interest payments and hidden costs associated with furniture financing options by saving up for your dream couch gradually. 

Create an account, set your savings goal, and start making deposits to reach your goal faster. Our partners, American Signature and Value City Furniture, will kick in a 5% cash reward directly to your wallet (that you can stack with other promotions), helping you score the perfect sofa without breaking the bank.