Furnishing a vacation rental isn’t just a design decision, it’s a bottom-line business move. Whether you’re setting up a studio in the city or a four-bedroom home near the beach, knowing your costs upfront is key to budgeting and ROI planning.

Here’s what you need to know about furnishing costs in 2026, broken down by property size, room type, and budget range.

Average Furnishing Costs by Property Type (2026)

Property Type	Budget Range	Mid-Range Average	Luxury Setup
Studio/1BR Apartment	$6,000 – $10,000	~$8,000	$12,000+
2BR Unit	$10,000 – $18,000	~$14,000	$20,000+
3BR Home	$15,000 – $25,000	~$20,000	$30,000+
4BR+ / Large Homes	$20,000 – $35,000+	~$28,000	$40,000+

Note: These estimates include furniture, decor, kitchenware, and essential electronics, but exclude renovation or large appliance costs.

What You’ll Need (and What It Costs)

Living Room

• Sofa: $600–$2,000
• Coffee table & side tables: $200–$600
• TV + media console: $400–$1,200
• Accent chairs, rugs, lighting: $500–$1,500

Bedrooms (per room)

• Bed frame + mattress: $800–$1,800
• Nightstands + lamps: $200–$600
• Dresser or closet system: $300–$800
• Linens + pillows + decor: $250–$500

Kitchen & Dining

• Dining table + chairs: $500–$1,200
• Cookware, dishes, utensils: $300–$600
• Small appliances (toaster, coffee maker, etc.): $200–$500

Bathroom (per bath)

• Shower curtain + liner: $30–$60
• Towels + bath mats: $100–$250
• Hair dryer + essentials: $100–$200

Extras That Guests Love

• Smart TV & streaming setup: $300–$800
• Outdoor furniture: $500–$2,000
• Washer/dryer (if not included): $1,200–$2,000
• Board games, books, local guides: $50–$150

Where to Save vs. Splurge

Save On:

• Side tables, rugs, lamps
• Kitchen basics (opt for durable, not designer)
• Wall art and throw pillows (affordable but impactful)

Splurge On:

• Beds and mattresses (good sleep = better reviews)
• Seating (comfort matters in living spaces)
• Smart TVs or tech amenities (modern expectations)

Tips to Stay on Budget

• Buy in bundles: Retailers offer furnishing packages for STRs.
• Shop off-season sales: Furnish before peak season.
• Mix high and low: Combine IKEA basics with statement pieces.
• Track ROI: A well-furnished home often earns 20–30% more.

Final Word: Think Long-Term ROI

Your furniture isn’t just for looks, it’s a tool to increase nightly rates, attract better guests, and reduce wear-and-tear replacements. Smart investments in comfort and durability pay off in reviews and rebookings.

Once you’ve furnished your vacation rental, list it with Stay to access professional management, optimized pricing, and seamless guest services.

Ready to turn your furnished property into a five-star listing? List your home with Stay.