Furnishing your new apartment shouldn't break the bank. Learn how to prioritize essentials and maximize the usability of your space,  no matter the size. From living rooms to bedrooms, let's talk about how much it costs to furnish an apartment in Canada.

How Much Does it Cost to Furnish an Apartment in Canada?   

Furnishing your new apartment shouldn't break the bank. Learn how to prioritize essentials and maximize the usability of your space,  no matter the size. From living rooms to bedrooms, let's talk about how much it costs to furnish an apartment in Canada.

The cost of furnishing your apartment can vary depending on several factors:

• Square Footage: A one-bedroom apartment naturally requires less furniture than a sprawling three-bedroom space.

• Delivery Costs: Depending on how much furniture you need and what floor you live on, this could warrant hiring a moving company or paying extra for delivery.

• Pre-Furnished: Do apartments come with furniture? Yes, some apartments are leased partially or fully furnished. They’re hard to find, but will obviously save money.

Here's a general cost breakdown to provide a starting point:

• Essentials: $3,500 to $5,800—this covers the essential items for daily living.

• Mid-Range Comfort: $7,000 to $11,000—offers better quality furniture that will last longer.

How Much to Furnish an Apartment: Room by Room

Break it down room by room, so you know exactly what you need (and what you can skip for now).

The Hangout Haven: Living Room

The living room is the heart of your apartment, a space for relaxation, entertaining guests, and unwinding after a long day. But how do you create a comfortable and inviting living space without breaking the bank?

Must-Haves for Cozy Comfort:

• Seating: Invest in a comfy sofa or futon for lounging, movie nights, and even occasional guests ($200-$500+). When buying furniture, consider a two-seater for smaller spaces or a sectional for larger areas. 

• Coffee Table: A sturdy coffee table for drinks, snacks, and books is key ($50-$200+). Look for a size that complements your sofa and offers storage options like shelves or drawers.

• Lighting: Overhead lighting is a must, but table and floor lamps add warmth and ambiance to your entire apartment, especially in the evenings. Choose lamps with shades that suit your style (table lamps: $20-$100+, floor lamps: $50-$200+).

Ways to Save Money:

• Shop around: Compare prices at furniture stores, online retailers, and even thrift stores. You might unearth a hidden gem at a fraction of the cost.

• Multitaskers are magic: Look for furniture that serves multiple purposes. A futon is both a sofa and a guest bed. A storage ottoman provides extra seating and hides clutter.

• Embrace DIY: Channel your inner creative! Build floating shelves, repaint an old side table, or reupholster chairs for a personalized touch (materials typically cost around $20-$50).

Remember, the key to furnishing your living room on a budget is to prioritize your needs and be creative.

Meals and More: Dining Room

The dining room isn't just for meals anymore! It can be a space for entertaining guests, working on hobbies, or simply enjoying a cup of coffee. Here's how to create a stylish dining room on a budget:

Must-Haves for Meals and Gatherings:

• Dining tables: Choose a table size that fits your space and how many people you typically dine with (typically $100-$500+). Expandable tables offer more flexibility, especially in smaller apartments.

• Chairs: Opt for chairs with backs that provide good support, especially if you linger over meals or game nights. Consider the number of chairs you need and whether they should match the table material (wood, metal, etc.) or your personal style (expect $50-$100 per chair).

Stretch Your Dollar:

Prioritize your needs first. If you rarely entertain, a small bistro set might be sufficient.

• Think outside the box: Don't limit yourself to traditional dining sets. A pub table with bar stools works well in smaller spaces ($100-$200 for the table, $30-$60 per bar stool). Folding tables tucked away when not in use, ideal for studios or apartments that need to save space ($50-$100).

• Shop factory direct: Find brand-name essential furniture at incredible value when you purchase from factory-direct retailers! Dinettes and other dining room furniture are all in their original packaging and available at warehouse prices.

Your Relaxation Retreat: Bedroom

The bedroom is your haven—a place to unwind, recharge, and get a good night's sleep. Here are the key furniture pieces to create a peaceful and comfortable retreat, all while keeping an eye on your budget:

Must-Haves for Sleep and Storage:

• Bed frame and mattress: This is a worthy investment for quality sleep in your new apartment (expect $200-$2,000+). Platform beds eliminate the need for a box spring, saving you money. Mattresses vary greatly in price depending on size, brand, and features.

• Dresser: Provides essential storage for clothes and linens. Choose a size that complements your bedroom and offers drawers for various clothing items ($100-$500+).

Ways to Save a Buck:

• Mattress sets: Box spring and mattress together for one price, like our Mattress Sets.

• Platform beds: Budget-friendly and available in various styles.

• DIY headboard: Get creative with painted wooden pallets or upholstered panels (under $100) for a fraction of the cost of a traditional headboard.

Remember: stick to essential furniture at first. You can always add decorative touches over time.

Your Self-Care Space: Bathroom

Even a small bathroom can be a spa-like retreat. Here are the essentials to creating a clean and functional space without breaking the bank:

Must-Haves:

• Shower curtain or shower door: Shower curtains are more budget-friendly ($10-$50), while doors add a luxurious feel ($100-$200+). Both provide privacy and prevent flooding.

• Bath mat: A slip-resistant surface for safety (around $10-$20).

On a Tight Budget:

• Shower storage solutions: Maximize vertical space with hanging organizers or caddy shelves to keep essentials within reach (around $10-$20).

• Multitasking towels: Look for absorbent and stylish bath towels ($10-$20 each). Consider separate hand and bath towels for drying.

Prioritize function first, especially in a one-bedroom apartment. Creative storage solutions can help maximize your bathroom's potential when you’re furnishing an apartment on a budget.

Make Your New Apartment Yours!

While the cost of furnishing an apartment might be high, these wants will help you personalize your apartment and create a comfortable, inviting atmosphere that reflects your unique style:

• Artwork or Photos: Showcase your personality with art, photographs, or inspirational quotes that reflect your style (costs vary depending on size, frame, and source—expect $10-$100 per piece).

• Plants: A small potted plant in the living room or bathroom can add a touch of life and improve air quality ($15-$50 per plant). Choose low-maintenance varieties that thrive in your apartment's lighting conditions.

• Rugs: Area rugs define spaces, add warmth, and protect your floors. Look for a rug in a size and colour scheme that complements your furniture and overall decor ($50-$200+).

• Mirrors: Mirrors strategically placed can create the illusion of a larger space and reflect light ($20-$100+).

• Curtains & Blinds: Window treatments provide privacy, light control, and can also enhance the overall style of your space ($20-$200+).

• Bookshelves: Display your favourite books, decorative objects, or plants on stylish bookshelves ($50-$200+).

• Textiles: They're an inexpensive way to update the look and feel throughout the seasons (expect $10-$50 per throw pillow and $20-$100 for a blanket).

Ready to create your dream apartment but want to know exactly how much does it cost to furnish an apartment in Canada? With a little planning, resourcefulness, and creativity, you can transform your space into a stylish and comfortable haven with Surplus Furniture. So grab your favourite finds, unleash your inner decorator, and get started!