How Much Does Reupholstering Furniture Cost?

On February 25, 2026 By newsroom Topic: Home Services

Reupholstering furniture can breathe new life into your favorite pieces, but the cost varies significantly based on size, materials, and labor. Here's a breakdown of the key details to help you decide whether to reupholster or replace.

Average Cost to Reupholster Furniture

National Average: $715 per item
Range: $50 to $4,000, depending on size and repairs
Material Costs: $50 to $70 per yard
Labor Costs: $40 to $100 per hour

Cost by Furniture Type

Sofa
Loveseats: $600–$2,000
Sectionals: $2,000–$4,000
Chair
Dining Room Chairs: $50–$250
Armchairs: $1,000–$2,000
Outdoor Cushions
Small Cushions: $50–$500
Ottoman
$300–$700
Chaise Lounge
$900–$1,500
Leather Furniture
$30–$60 per yard (leather is often cheaper than fabric)
Headboards
$200–$2,000, depending on size and materials

Factors Influencing Reupholstery Costs

Fabric Selection
Polyester: $10 per yard (budget-friendly)
Silk or Velvet: $100 per yard (luxury options)
Condition of the Item
Repairing frames, tufting, or nailheads increases costs.
Furniture Transportation
Professional moving: $100–$300
Labor Time
Small items: 1 week
Large furniture: Up to 1 month

DIY Reupholstery Costs

Fabric Costs: $50–$70 per yard
Padding: $5–$50 per yard
Tools and Materials: $50–$200 (one-time purchase)
Considerations: Time-intensive, requires skill, and is better suited for smaller items like pillows or cushions.

FAQs

1. Is reupholstering cheaper than buying new?
- Usually not, especially for heavily damaged items.
- It’s worth it for sentimental or vintage pieces.

2. Can I DIY reupholstery?
- Small projects (e.g., cushions) are manageable.
- Larger projects are better handled by professionals.

Reupholstering furniture is an excellent way to preserve sentimental value or invest in high-quality pieces, but always weigh the costs and benefits!