How to Find the Best Couch Under $500 for Your Space, According to an Interior Designer
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If you're here looking for your next sofa, you already know how important it is to do your research before buying a new couch. You'll want a sofa that's comfortable (obviously!), maybe an extra-deep one you can cozy up on, or one that converts to a futon for guests. It's key to find a couch that is suitable for your space, both in terms of size and aesthetic. And, you'll want to determine your budget. If you're not ready to splash out, we've rounded up the best couches under $500 that you can shop now.
"While more expensive sofas often come with better durability, a well-maintained budget-friendly couch can last for several years," shares interior designer Mina Lisanin.
If you've got a budget of $500 or less for a new couch, you might also consider looking to local thrift stores, online flea markets, or Facebook Marketplace to find a durable, high-end couch for less. Of course, then you have to transport it, which can be a challenge or extra expense. There's definitely something nice about a couch that shows up on your doorstep! That's why we've identified several inexpensive sofas that can be delivered from Walmart, Amazon, Wayfair, and other budget-friendly retailers.
For more affordable home decor ideas, check out our stories on the best Cloud couch dupes, the best sleeper chairs, and the best outdoor sectionals.
Convertible Sectional Sofa
This compact and comfortable sofa gets plenty of love from reviewers on Amazon. The understated design suits a variety of home aesthetics, and the reversible chaise makes it possible to place it in different configurations depending on your room's setup. Reviewers also note that this couch is on the firmer side, offering plenty of support.
Faux Leather Convertible Folding Futon
This sofa is the #1 best-seller in the sofas and couches category on Amazon, and it's incredibly affordable to boot. The sleek faux leather exterior is perfect for a modern living room or office. It also has an adjustable backrest that converts it for lounging or sleeping, and it has built-in cupholders to keep your beverage close at hand.
L-Shaped Sectional Sofa
This plush sectional is ideal for a contemporary or farmhouse-inspired living room. According to reviewers, it's easy to assemble and suitable for a variety of spaces. Doesn't it make you want to curl up with a blanket and bowl of popcorn for a good Netflix binge?
Perdue Velvet Convertible Sleeper Sofa
This chic couch makes for a perfect focal point of your living room, thanks to the lush velvet construction and bright color. Beyond the maximalist design appeal, it's also comfortable and easily converted into a sleeper sofa. This would be an especially great piece for a home office that doubles as a guest room.
Seylow Faux Leather Convertible Sofa
A leather sofa is a perfect way to add rustic, stately vibes to any room in your home. We're fans of this convertible one made with a solid wood frame and faux leather. The tapered legs and square arms make it a particularly good fit for a mid-century modern room.
Reversible Sofa Sectional
Your search for a comfortable, stylish sectional under $500 might just end here. With a reversible chaise and a cozy, comfortable feel praised by reviewers, this is the ideal size for an apartment or small living room.
Oversized 3-Seater Sofa
This fashionable couch is covered in plush bouclé material that you'll love cozying up with. The overstuffed silhouette adds a chic but whimsical atmosphere to any living room or den. It also looks far more expensive than the affordable price tag — friends won't believe how little you paid for this one.
Aria Round Arm Convertible Sofa
This elegant, eye-catching sofa is soft and durable enough for everyday use, thanks to the stain-resistant and mildew-resistant linen. It also features an adjustable back to turn this couch into a recliner or twin bed, making it a versatile addition to any home.
Pull Out Loveseat Sofa Bed
Forget futons — this loveseat turns into a spacious and comfortable full-sized bed. Sure, it's a great option for guests, but we also think you'll want to unfold it and cozy up with some blankets for your next movie night. It also has a built-in USB port and pockets on the side to hold remotes, books, or other small items. It's practically built for binge-watching!
Whitman Sofa
This contemporary sofa can be easily styled to match any design aesthetic. The overstuffed design makes it comfortable, and plenty of reviewers say it was delivered quickly and smoothly. It comes in three colors and can seat up to three people.
What to look for when shopping for a cheap couch
?? Size: Lisanin suggests measuring the room to determine what size your couch should be. You'll want to measure both the length and the width of your space. When shopping for couches, pay attention to the measurements and consider how they compare to the space.
When I was moving into my last apartment, I measured and taped out the area where I wanted to place a couch, so that I could understand how it would feel in the space and determine how long and wide my couch should be.
?? Style: "Choose a sofa that complements your overall interior design," says Lisanin. "Consider factors like color, shape, and upholstery." For instance, you might invest in a white linen couch for a coastal-inspired living room or a bright velvet couch for a maximalist space.
?? Maintenance: Lisanin suggests considering the ease of cleaning and maintenance before you make your purchase. "Choose a fabric that suits your lifestyle, especially if you have pets or young children," she suggests. Some couches come with removable covers that can be tossed in the laundry. Others, like faux leather, are especially easy to wipe clean.
?? Comfort: Arguably the most important factor to consider when shopping for a sofa is comfort. Most families spend several hours a week on the sofa, so you want something that is comfortable to sit on. "Check the seat depth, back support, and cushion firmness to ensure it meets your preferences," says Lisanin.
FAQ
What is a good price for a decent couch?
"While higher-end sofas often come with better quality materials and construction, there are affordable options that provide good value for the money," says Lisanin. A good price for a decent couch can be anywhere from $300 to thousands of dollars. The price will depend on several factors, including size, materials, brand, delivery costs and more. Lisanin suggests determining your budget before shopping, so that you only look at couches within your price range.What couches are most durable?
The most durable couches will be ones made with a high-quality wood or steel frame. Couches made with softer woods, plastic, or particleboard will be less durable over time, but will likely be more affordable. When it comes to the sofa materials, you'll want to look for canvas, microfiber, polyester, nylon or leather fabrics, since these tend to be durable and easy to clean. If you're looking to increase your couch's lifespan, you can also invest in cushion covers that protect the couch and can be machine-washed.What is a good brand of sofa?
This will depend on your sofa needs. You can always read reviews for individual couches and brands to see which ones customers have positive experiences with. Raymour & Flanigan and IKEA are frequently recommended by experts; couches from Mercury Row and Sand & Stable get plenty of positive reviews on Wayfair.
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