You finally found the perfect dining table. Now comes the hard part: finding chairs that don’t cost more than the table itself. If you’ve been scouring NYC stores (or getting lost in online rabbit holes) trying to find budget-friendly dining chairs that are comfortable and actually look good, we’ve got you.
Great options include CB2, West Elm, Target’s online selection, Facebook Marketplace for quality secondhand finds, and Modern sofas from Article for modern mid-century designs. Aim for $100–$250 per chair, check dimensions before buying, and consider mixing styles for a custom look.
As interior designers specializing in affordable design, we know the best spots to shop and what to look for so you can get style and comfort without overspending. Here’s the rundown:
Mikkel Dining Chair from Article, $199
What Counts as a Budget-Friendly Dining Chair?
For our clients, the sweet spot is usually between $100 and $250 per chair. Anything below $100 often sacrifices comfort or quality, and anything above that can quickly add up, especially if you need four or more.
Our Favorite NYC Stores for Budget-Friendly Dining Chairs That Look Luxe
CB2
Modern, sculptural, and surprisingly affordable if you know where to look —namely, their sales. We often recommend their vegan-leather or sculptural-velvet chairs, which add instant edge to a space.
Duke Sienna Brown Vegan Leather Dining Armchair, CB2, On Sale for $249
West Elm
West Elm sports a wide selection of chair options for under $250, and the upholstered varieties have plenty of affordable fabric choices. And when the timing is right, the deals are real. We’ve scored designer-grade dining chairs here more times than we can count.
Range Side Dining Chair starting at $199
Lowes (yes, really!)
Typically online only, but they carry name brands and sleek, minimalist designs that look like they came from an more expensive furniture retailer at budget-friendly prices. Stick with clean-lined styles in neutral fabrics for a high-end look.
Circle 55 Idina Linen Fabric Side Chair with Casters (Set of 2), $439.99
Facebook Marketplace
We love vintage and secondhand pieces, especially when they’re well-made and just need a little TLC. Search by neighborhood and filter by “like new” or “gently used” to save time.
Article
Mid-century stunners, often with padded seats and cool leg details. Bonus: they deliver quickly and the quality is consistently great for the price.
Meja Dining Chair in Oak and Bristol Ivory, $199
And More…
Target, HomeGoods, and World Market offer stylish options in a variety of styles. Just be sure to check the return policy if you buy them online, in case they don’t meet your expectations. We also check sale items at retailers like Pottery Barn and Serena & Lily. There’s a treasure trove of markdowns on high-quality goods, and sometimes you’ll find just the right pieces at a great price point.
Carter Dining Chair, Reg.Price $268, Sale Price $178
Designer Tips for Picking the Right Dining Chairs
- Match the mood, not the set: You don’t need a matching set. In fact, mixing materials—like wood with metal, or upholstered with cane—creates visual interest and makes your space look professionally designed and curated.
- Always check dimensions: Dining chairs come in all shapes and seat heights. Make sure they slide comfortably under your table and leave enough room for legs and movement.
- Try before you buy if you can: Sit in the chair. Wiggle. Lean back. You’ll be using these often, and no one wants to feel like they’re at a middle school assembly.
- Watch for delivery fees: Some online deals aren’t so great once you add in shipping costs. Make sure to factor that into your budget.
Final Thoughts: Smart Shopping Pays Off
You don’t need a designer budget to score stylish, comfortable dining chairs in NYC. With the right sources and a few insider tips, you can outfit your dining area with pieces that feel curated and custom without draining your bank account.
Need help pulling your dining space together? Book a complimentary consultation and let our team create a dining area that feels both elevated and easy.