Cost of an Area Rug: When to Spend & When to Save

An area rug is essential for grouping furniture and anchoring a room.

They are a decorative element and pivotal in tying together a room’s aesthetic while serving practical purposes such as adding warmth and sound absorption. 

Whether you’re seeking to enhance your living room with a vibrant pattern or ground your dining area with a luxurious touch, selecting the right rug involves style and budget considerations.

But how much does an area rug cost? In this article, we’ll explore the factors influencing the cost of area rugs, typical price ranges, and key questions to guide your purchase decision.

Key Takeaways:

• Size, materials, and construction significantly impact the cost of an area rug.
• Synthetic materials are budget-friendly, while natural fibres like wool and silk elevate costs.
• Machine-made rugs are generally more affordable than handwoven options.
• Prices range from $30 for small accent rugs to $10,000+ for high-end, luxury pieces.
• Consider the rug’s intended use and location to balance functionality and aesthetics.

Cost of an Area Rug

Let’s answer the question at hand. The table below represents a general guide to area rug cost ranges based on size, material, and construction:

Please note that La-Z-Boy prices listed in this article are subject to change without notice. Information is current as of December 5th, 2024. Contact your local La-Z-Boy Ottawa and Kingston stores by phone or in person for up-to-date pricing.

Factors Affecting the Cost of an Area Rug

The cost of an area rug depends on several key elements, including its size, materials, construction method, style, and overall quality.

Size

Generally, the larger the rug, the more expensive it is. For instance, a small rug for a bathroom or entryway is typically inexpensive, while a large rug for a dining or living room can be a significant investment.

Materials

Rug materials are a primary determinant of price. Synthetic fibres such as polypropylene and nylon are budget-friendly, durable, and easy to maintain. In contrast, natural fibres like wool and silk offer superior quality and elegance but come at a higher cost. Wool provides durability and softness, while silk represents the pinnacle of luxury.

Construction

The method of rug construction greatly influences its cost and durability. Machine-made knotted rugs are typically the most affordable due to their efficient production.

Machine-made tufted rugs are slightly pricier because they involve some manual labour. Hand-knotted rugs are the most labour-intensive and expensive, prized for their craftsmanship and longevity. The knot count, akin to thread count in sheets, further affects the price—the higher the knot count, the more intricate and valuable the rug.

Style

Trends and design styles can elevate a rug’s cost, particularly if the design is inspired by high-fashion or home décor trends. However, as trends shift, the value of certain styles may decrease.

Overall Quality

High-quality rugs, particularly those that are handwoven, imported, or crafted with unique patterns and dyes, are often considered art pieces. These rugs carry a price that reflects their craftsmanship and exclusivity.

Questions to Ask Yourself Before Buying an Area Rug

When deciding how much to spend on an area rug, there are several important considerations to ensure you make the best choice for your space, lifestyle, and budget.

1. What is the purpose of the rug?

Determine whether the rug is primarily for aesthetic enhancement, practical use, or both. If your goal is to tie a room together visually, you may want to prioritize patterns, colours, and materials that complement your existing décor. On the other hand, if your focus is functionality, such as adding warmth to a space or protecting the floor, consider options that are durable and easy to maintain.

2. What room will it be in?

The location of the rug plays a significant role in deciding how much to invest. High-traffic areas, such as entryways or hallways, are better suited to affordable, durable options made from synthetic materials that can withstand frequent use and dirt. In contrast, formal spaces like living rooms or dining rooms often benefit from high-quality, visually striking rugs that serve as statement pieces, making them worth the splurge.

3. Do you have children or pets?

If your household includes young children or pets, durability and stain resistance become essential. In these cases, synthetic materials like nylon are excellent choices because they are easy to clean, resistant to wear and tear, and more affordable to replace if necessary. Opting for a practical material ensures that your rug will endure the occasional spill, scratch, or accident without losing its charm.

4. Is the design trend-based?

For trend-driven styles, it’s advisable to choose an affordable option that is easy to replace when trends evolve. Rug designs inspired by current fashion and interior design movements can quickly become outdated, so keeping your investment modest allows for greater flexibility to refresh your décor as styles change. Conversely, timeless designs and classic patterns may justify a higher price if they align with your long-term vision for the space.

What’s Next?

Now that you know what factors influence the cost of an area rug, you’re ready to make an informed decision! At La-Z-Boy Ottawa, Gatineau & Kingston, we offer a diverse range of rugs to suit every style and budget. Most of La-Z-Boy’s Area Rug Selection comes from the home decor company Surya, which you can learn more about with this article.

How to Select the Perfect Area Rug

How to Mix Patterns in Your Home

How to Measure a Room to Buy the Right Furniture