Starting a new life in the U.S. often means setting up a household from scratch. For new immigrants, this can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re trying to keep costs low. Whether you’re moving into your first house or a small apartment, one of the biggest early expenses is buying furniture and household items.
The best way to furnish a new home on a budget is to focus on essentials first, then slowly add more pieces as your needs grow. This method helps you spread out your expenses over a few weeks or months, which is important if you’re still looking for a job or saving money for other priorities. In this guide, we’ll show you practical tips to furnish your entire house or apartment without overspending.
Affiliate Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may receive a small commission to help support our site, at no additional cost to you.
Set a Realistic Budget and Prioritize Essentials for Your New House
Before you buy anything, decide how much you can afford to spend. Remember that you don’t need to fill your entire house in one week. Focus on the rooms you’ll use most often and make a list of what you truly need right away.
Start with the basic furniture pieces:
Bed and mattress
Small dining table and a few chairs
Couch or comfortable seating
Coffee table or side tables
Basic storage like shelves or a dresser
Once these are covered, you can begin to think about extra furniture or decorating. Keep track of your total cost and look for ways to cut prices through sales, second hand options, or online discounts.
Best Online Retailers for Budget Furniture
Shopping online can save time and help you compare prices before buying. Many websites offer low-cost options and bundle deals that reduce the total price. You can also read reviews to make sure the furniture is of decent quality before you buy.
Here are some trusted online retailers to consider:
Amazon – Offers a wide selection of beds, couches, and bedroom furniture with fast delivery. You can also find basic items like dishes, appliances, and bedding, making it easy to shop for multiple things at once.
Walmart – A good place to buy affordable furniture items, small kitchen appliances, and household goods. Many locations also offer in-store pickup.
Wayfair – Known for furniture and home decor. Wayfair runs regular sales and has a large inventory of items for different price ranges.
IKEA – Great for furnishing small spaces. They offer furniture that’s simple, functional, and often lower in price. Some stores allow you to order online and pick up in person.
These sites also sell essentials like plates, utensils, sheets, and pillows, so you can buy many items from one place to save time and shipping costs. Always compare the total cost at checkout, especially for delivery fees, and try to shop during sales for the best deals.
In-Store Options That Fit Your Budget
If you prefer to see furniture in person before buying, shopping in-store is a good choice. Many large retailers offer budget-friendly options for couches, tables, beds, and more. You can also check clearance sections or ask staff about upcoming sales.
Popular in-store options include:
Walmart – Offers a wide range of furniture and home goods at low prices. Many stores carry basics like bed frames, dressers, dining tables, and chairs.
Target – Sells affordable furniture, home decor, and essentials like bedding, kitchenware, and small appliances.
Local discount furniture stores – Search online for budget furniture shops in your city. These stores often carry both new and overstock items at reduced prices.
When shopping in-store, consider how you’ll transport your items. If you don’t have a car, check if the store offers delivery. Some stores provide setup services and can even remove old furniture or appliances for a small fee. This can be helpful if you’re replacing an item like a dishwasher or a couch and don’t want to be stuck with the old one.
Timing is important too. Try to shop during seasonal promotions like Memorial Day, when many stores lower prices on big-ticket items.
How to Furnish Room by Room
Breaking your home down by room makes the process more manageable. This helps you avoid buying things you don’t need and focus on what will actually make your space more comfortable.
Living Room:
Look for an affordable couch or futon that fits your space
Add a small coffee table and side tables if needed
Floor lamps or table lamps can brighten the room without installing new fixtures
Bedroom:
Start with a solid bed frame and comfortable mattress
Consider buying a basic bedroom set that includes a bed, dresser, and nightstand
Add shelves or plastic drawer units for extra storage
Dining Area:
A small dining table and 2–4 chairs are enough for most apartments
Foldable or stackable chairs can save space and money
Kitchen:
Focus on appliances you use daily like a microwave, toaster, or coffee maker
Stores like Amazon and Walmart sell bundles of plates, utensils, and cooking tools to help you save money and time
Decorating:
You don’t need to decorate right away. Start with simple items like throw pillows, curtains, or secondhand wall art
DIY projects or low-cost finds from places like Dollar Tree can help your home feel cozy without adding much to your total cost
Each room can be furnished gradually. Start with what you need to sleep, eat, and relax. As your budget allows, you can add more comfort and style to each space.
Buy Secondhand to Save Big
Buying second hand furniture is one of the best ways to keep costs low when furnishing your new home. Many new immigrants choose used items because they are often much cheaper than new ones and still in great condition.
Here are some of the best places to find second-hand furniture and home items:
Facebook Marketplace – A popular option for buying local items. You can search by location and price, and even message sellers to ask questions or negotiate.
Yard sales and garage sales – These are common in spring and summer. You can find everything from bed frames to side tables and kitchenware for just a few dollars.
Second hand shops and thrift stores – Stores like Goodwill and Salvation Army often have furniture, appliances, and decor for a low price. You may even find brand-name items for a fraction of the original cost.
Community giveaway groups – Look for local “Buy Nothing” groups or neighborhood sharing pages where people give away furniture and other household goods for free.
When buying used furniture, make sure to check for:
Sturdiness (especially for beds and tables)
Cleanliness and signs of damage
Any smells, stains, or pet hair
If you don’t have a car, ask the seller if they offer delivery or if they can help load items into a rideshare vehicle. Used furniture may not be perfect, but with a little cleaning, it can be a smart way to furnish your home for less.
Tips to Stretch Your Money Further
Furnishing your home on a budget takes planning and smart shopping. These tips can help you make the most of your money:
Combine secondhand and new purchases to balance quality and savings
Shop during sales or off-seasons when prices are lower
Use cashback or coupon apps like Rakuten or Honey when shopping online
Look for free delivery or bundle deals when buying large items
Plan your purchases around your space—avoid buying oversized furniture that doesn’t fit your room
Wait for a few weeks, if needed, before buying everything. There’s no need to rush
If you’re replacing an old couch, dishwasher, or other large item, ask if the delivery company will take away the old one when they drop off the new one. Not all companies include this, and getting rid of bulky items can be difficult without a truck.
These small decisions can make a big difference in the total cost. A little patience and research can help you set up a home that is comfortable, clean, and affordable.
Start Building a Comfortable Home Today—Without Overspending
Furnishing a new home doesn’t have to drain your savings. Whether you’re moving into your first apartment or settling into a house with your family, you can fill each room with what you need at a price you can afford.
Focus on what matters most—safe and clean places to sleep, eat, and relax. Then slowly add to your home as your budget allows. With smart planning and the tips shared in this guide, you’ll find that the best way to furnish a new home on a budget is both possible and practical.
You’re not alone—and your new home can be everything you need, one smart step at a time.
