Where can you buy affordable rugs in NYC?

Some of the best spots for affordable rugs in NYC include ABC Carpet & Home, West Elm (search their sale items!), HomeGoods, or TJ Maxx. Then there are boutique shops like Carpet Culture in SOHO and Ernesta in Manhattan that offer affordable, upscale options, too, balancing price, quality, and style, so you can find a rug that works for your budget and your home.

Rugs are the unsung heroes of any room. They define your space, add texture, and pull the whole design together. But if you’ve ever gone rug shopping in New York City, you know the options range from suspiciously cheap to second-mortgage expensive.

That said, there are plenty of places to find affordable rugs in NYC that still look elevated. You just need to know where to go, what to look for, and how to pick the right one for your space.

Here’s our guide to finding affordable rugs in NYC:

First, Let’s Talk Rug Size

One of the biggest design mistakes we see? Rugs that are too small. In a living room, your rug should be big enough for at least the front legs of the furniture to sit on it. In a bedroom, aim for the rug to extend at least two feet around the bed.

Here’s a quick size cheat sheet for NYC apartments:

Living room: The rug should be large enough to fit at least partially under all the pieces of seating (i.e., sofa, side chairs, chaise, and so on).

Bedroom: Aim for a rug that creates a “U” shape at the foot of the bed. Place the rug perpendicular to the bed, and roughly 6-12″ in front of the nightstands, centered side to side. 6’x9′ is perfect sizing for a queen bed, and 8’x10′ works for a king.

Getting the rug size right makes the whole room feel more grounded and intentional.

Tumble

Where We Actually Shop for Affordable Rugs Online and in NYC

We’re big fans of a high-low mix, and rugs are a great place to save without compromising style. Here are some of our favorite local and online sources:

1. Rugs USA: Huge online selection with deep discounts. We love their washable lines and vintage-inspired styles. Bonus: fast shipping on most items and frequent sales.
2. ABC Carpet & Home: The Manhattan and Southampton locations are luxe, but the Brooklyn outlet offers high-end rugs at a fraction of the cost. Bring your measurements and be ready to dig.
3. West Elm: Modern rugs with big markdowns on sale items. Inventory changes often, so check regularly.
4. HomeGoods or TJ Maxx: A treasure hunt worth trying. Look for natural fibers like jute or wool blends for better quality at lower prices.
5. Boutique NYC Shops: Retailers like Carpet Culture and Ernesta carry unique pieces at a variety of price points, some well below luxury showroom pricing.

Ernesta

Rug Materials 101: What to Know Before You Buy

If your rug going in a high-traffic area (which is the case most likely), durability is key:

• Polypropylene: Budget-friendly, durable, and great for living rooms and hallways.
• Wool: Soft, long-lasting, and naturally stain-resistant.
• Cotton: Good for layering or low-traffic spots.
• Jute or sisal: Textured and earthy, but not ideal for messy areas.

For homes with kids or pets, washable rugs are a smart move. Ruggable and Tumble both offer styles that clean up easily without looking like bath mats.

Ruggable

Don’t Forget a Rug Pad

A rug pad prevents slipping, adds cushioning, and protects your floors. Make sure the pad is sized to the rug (and a little bit smaller than the rug is fine), not the room.

Rugs USA

Final Affordable Rug Thoughts

Finding affordable rugs in NYC is about shopping smart, knowing your size, and picking the right material for your lifestyle. From hidden outlets to designer favorites, there’s no shortage of options to get a rug you love.

Need help picking the right one? Book a complimentary consultation and let us help you choose the perfect rug for your space and your budget.