Low Cost Home Decor Ideas For A Beautiful Budget Makeover
What Are Some Low Cost Home Decor Ideas That Make a Big Impact?
Start by improving your lighting, adding candles, and using books as decor to make rooms feel cozy and intentional. Mix affordable finds from Amazon, IKEA, or Facebook Marketplace with small details like plants, mirrors, and wall shelves. These easy touches create a stylish home that looks expensive but costs very little.
Heads up! This post contains some affiliate links. If you shop through them, at no extra cost to you I might earn a little something—like a virtual high-five! I only share products I genuinely believe in and think you’ll love too.
Did you think you needed to drain your bank account to decorate your home beautifully? Nope! Let me tell you, some of the best spaces I’ve ever seen were pulled together with creativity, a little planning, and a smart budget. These low cost home decor ideas prove that style doesn’t have to come with a huge price tag.
From cozy lighting tricks to clever shopping finds, I’m going to show you how to transform your home into a warm space without spending a fortune. These easy home decor ideas work for apartments, houses, or even temporary rentals.
This post is all about low cost home decor ideas.
1. Lighting Makes a Big Difference
If you only take one thing from this post, let it be this, lighting changes everything. It’s one of the most underrated budget decorating ideas that can instantly elevate a room.
Instead of harsh, bright lights, choose warm bulbs that make your space feel cozy. A small table lamp in the corner or a simple pendant light over your dining table can completely change the mood. You can even grab battery operated sconces and stick them on the wall for a designer look with no wiring needed.
Try mixing lighting styles:
- Overhead lighting for the main glow
- Table lamps or floor lamps for warmth
- Accent lights for highlighting corners or decor
The goal is soft, layered light that feels inviting and highend, not flat.
2. Candles and Books as Decor
Two of the easiest low cost home decor ideas that look effortlessly stylish are candles and books. They work in every room and add instant personality.
Stack two or three hardcover books on your coffee table, add a candle or two on top, and you’ve got a magazine worthy setup. On shelves, candles and books fill awkward spaces and make everything feel cozy.
Use them in creative ways too. Place candles on trays with small plants, use books to elevate smaller decor items, or mix both on your bathroom counter for a spa-like vibe. The best part is that these pieces are inexpensive, reusable, and easy to switch around as your style evolves.
Save For Later:
How to Style Your Home on a Budget: Full House Setup for Less Than $3K
Interior Design Your Home Without Spending a Fortune | Bedroom & Living Room Ideas That Look Expensive
3. Decorate With Contact Paper
If you’re looking for cheap decorating ideas for apartments, contact paper is your new best friend. It’s affordable, renter friendly, and can completely transform a space in just a few hours!
Try marble or wood patterned contact paper on countertops, dressers, or bookshelves. You can also cover old furniture to give it a new life or create an accent wall behind your bed.
It’s a low commitment way to add personality and texture without paint or expensive wallpaper. For just a few dollars, you’ll make your space look fresh and custom. Plus, you’ll be able to get your deposit back when you’re ready to move out if you’re renting.
4. Style Your Kitchen With Intention
Kitchens are one of the easiest places to elevate with small touches. You don’t need a remodel to make it beautiful. You just need a few thoughtful details that tie the space together.
Here’s a simple setup that works every time:
- A cookbook with a pretty cover on your counter
- A cute cutting board leaned against the backsplash
- A matching utensil holder that doubles as decor
- A small fake plant for a natural touch
- A set of matching salt and pepper shakers to pull it all together
Each piece is inexpensive, but together they create a polished kitchen that feels warm and inviting.
5. Living Room Decor That Feels Expensive on a Budget
The living room is where you can get creative with easy home decor that looks high-end. Start with one affordable accent chair and pair it with a side table and a faux plant. That combo instantly makes the space feel intentional.
Add cozy throw blankets, textured pillows, and a neutral rug if your budget allows. Wall shelves are another favorite trick because they add dimension while showing off candles, framed prints, or small decor pieces.
Here’s the best part, these items are versatile. You can move them from room to room or restyle them whenever you get bored. It’s all about being flexible with your space and having fun with it.
6. Bathroom Decor That Looks Luxe
Your bathroom deserves just as much attention as your living room. A few small touches can make it feel like a spa without the luxury price tag.
Try adding a marble riser table or tray to hold your soap and lotion. Choose a pretty soap bottle and a matching toothbrush holder instead of plastic ones. Swap your tissue box for a stylish cover that ties in with your colors.
You can also add a small candle, a plant, or even rolled hand towels in a basket to make it look more polished. Functional decor is your best friend here because it keeps your space organized and beautiful at the same time.
7. Entryway and Hallway Details That Shine
Your entryway sets the tone for your entire home. It’s the first thing guests see and one of the easiest spots to upgrade with budget decorating ideas.
Start with a small table or console, then add:
- A mirror to make the space feel larger
- A small lamp for soft light
- A decorative bowl or tray for keys
- A few books stacked neatly for balance
If you have a hallway, hang framed prints or add wall hooks for bags and coats. These small touches turn a basic entryway into a warm welcome.
8. Decorate With Affordable Finds
Let’s talk about the fun part, shopping! You don’t have to hit luxury stores to create a home you love. Some of the best low cost home decor ideas come from stores you probably already shop at.
1. Amazon
Amazon has everything from throw pillows to candles at super affordable prices. It’s perfect for buying multiple small pieces that look cohesive together.
2. Facebook Marketplace
You can find almost anything here for a fraction of the price. Search locally for mirrors, rugs, lamps, or furniture. Just be smart with items like couches or mattresses. Most pieces can be bought for 50–70% less than retail, especially if someone upgraded recently.
3. Five Below
Do not overlook this store. They have fun and trendy decor items like small picture frames, throw blankets, and candles for only a few dollars.
4. IKEA
IKEA is ideal for simple, practical easy home decor. Pick up vases, fake plants, and storage baskets that make every corner look tidy and intentional.
5. HomeGoods or Burlington
These stores are treasure hunts for stylish decor. You might find an expensive looking vase for under $20 or a high quality throw for $12. I once found a $3,000 couch for $700. Total win!
7. Family and Friends
Never underestimate the power of gifts. Tell your family or friends what you’re decorating, and they might pass along something beautiful they no longer use.
9. Small Additions That Make a Big Impact
Once you’ve added the big pieces, it’s time for the details that bring everything together. These are small, affordable updates that make a big difference.
- Swap out basic knobs or handles for pretty hardware.
- Add matching baskets or bins for storage.
- Frame your favorite prints or personal photos.
- Layer cozy blankets and pillows in your living room.
- Stick to a simple color palette so everything feels cohesive.
These finishing touches make your space feel polished, complete, and full of personality.
10. Create a Homey Space
Decorating your home should be fun, not stressful. The best low cost home decor ideas come from mixing creativity with comfort. Every little change adds up. Before you know it, your space will look pulled together and cozy, all without spending too much.
Your home should make you feel good every time you walk in. These budget decorating ideas are proof that with the right lighting, a few candles, and some creativity, you can design a home that looks amazing and feels like you.
This post is all about low cost home decor ideas.
