How Much Does It Cost to Furnish a Home in Ireland?

Moving to Ireland, whether for work or adventure, is a whirlwind of excitement, but let's be honest, it also comes with a hefty dose of "what now?" questions. One of the biggest head-scratchers, especially if you're coming from abroad with just a few suitcases, is the daunting task of furnishing a new home. You've found your perfect rental – perhaps unfurnished – and now you're staring at empty rooms, wondering just how much this whole endeavour is going to set you back. Fear not, fellow expat! I've been there, staring at those blank walls, and this guide is here to walk you through the realistic costs and smart strategies for furnishing your home in Ireland, from big-ticket items to the smallest kitchen utensil.

The Initial Shock and What to Expect from Irish Furnishing Costs

Let's not sugarcoat it: the cost of living in Ireland, particularly in major cities like Dublin or Cork, can be higher than many expect, and furnishing a home is no exception. When you first step into an unfurnished rental here, you might be imagining a quick trip to a local furniture store, filling a trolley with basics, and being done in an afternoon. The reality, for many expats, is a slower, more deliberate, and often more expensive process.

The "unfurnished" label in Ireland often means truly unfurnished. While major appliances like a refrigerator, oven, and washing machine are usually provided by the landlord, this isn't always a guarantee, especially in older properties. You might find yourself needing everything from a bed to a toaster, a sofa to a single spoon. This blank canvas can be exciting, offering you the chance to make a place truly your own, but it’s crucial to go into it with eyes wide open about the financial outlay. Many rentals, particularly in desirable areas, will explicitly state whether they are furnished or unfurnished. For those just starting their search, understanding the nuances of the market is key, and you might want to read up on How Do I Find a Property to Rent in Ireland? or even How Much Does It Cost to Rent in Dublin in 2026? to get a full picture.

The challenge isn't just the price tags, but also the logistics. If you're fresh off the plane, you likely don't have a car big enough to transport a flat-pack wardrobe or a dining table. Deliveries can add significant costs, and lead times for furniture can sometimes stretch for weeks, leaving you to make do with air mattresses and picnic blankets in the interim. This initial phase, often called the "settling-in period," is where many expats feel the pinch and the frustration most keenly. Don't be surprised if your initial budget estimates get a bit of a shake-up once you start pricing things out.

Breaking Down Furnishing Costs by Room

To give you a clearer picture, let's break down the typical costs you can expect when furnishing a standard one or two-bedroom home in Ireland. Remember, these are estimates, and prices can vary wildly depending on whether you're buying new, second-hand, high-end, or budget-friendly.

Major Appliances: The Big-Ticket Items (If Not Included)

As I mentioned, most landlords provide core white goods like a fridge-freezer, oven/hob, and a washing machine. However, if your rental doesn't, or if you're buying a property, these are significant investments.

• Refrigerator/Freezer: Expect to pay anywhere from €300 for a basic, smaller model up to €1,000+ for larger, more advanced fridge-freezers.
• Washing Machine: A standard washing machine will typically cost between €250 and €600. If you want a washer-dryer combo, or a separate tumble dryer, you're looking at similar price points for each.
• Oven/Hob: If not built-in, a standalone electric cooker can range from €200 to €700.
• Dishwasher: While not always considered essential, a dishwasher can be a huge time-saver. Prices usually start around €250 and go up to €600 or more.

It's always worth double-checking with your landlord exactly what is included before you move in. This can save you a lot of stress and unexpected expenses. Sometimes, a unit might come with only an oven and a fridge, leaving you to source a washing machine. This is where understanding your lease and asking direct questions can really pay off.

Living Room Essentials: From Sofa to Coffee Table

The living room is often the heart of the home, and furnishing it can quickly become one of the most expensive parts.

• Sofa: A comfortable two or three-seater sofa is usually the biggest expense. You could find a budget option for €300-€500, but a good quality, durable sofa will more likely be in the €600-€1,500 range, or even more for larger or designer pieces.
• Armchair/Accent Chair: If you want extra seating, a single armchair could cost €150-€500.
• Coffee Table: Basic coffee tables can be found for €50-€150, with more stylish or solid wood options going for €200-€400.
• TV Unit/Stand: Expect to pay €80-€300, depending on size and material.
• Shelving/Bookcase: Simple shelves start from €30, while larger bookcases can be €100-€300.
• Rug: A decent-sized living room rug can add warmth and comfort, costing €50-€250.
• Curtains/Blinds: Don't forget these! Prices vary massively by window size and material, but budget €50-€200 per window.

When I first moved over, I found myself sitting on a camping chair in my living room for weeks, just trying to mentally budget for a sofa that wouldn't break the bank! It’s a common expat experience to furnish piecemeal rather than all at once.

Bedroom Basics: Sleep and Storage

Getting a good night's sleep is paramount, and the bedroom is where you truly unwind.

• Bed Frame: A double bed frame can cost €150-€500 for a new, decent quality one. Single beds are slightly less, and super king sizes more.
• Mattress: This is one area where I'd advise not to skimp. A good quality double mattress can range from €250 to €800+. You can find cheaper ones, but your back will thank you for investing.
• Wardrobe: Storage is key. A flat-pack double wardrobe will typically be €100-€300. Solid wood or built-in options (if you’re buying) would be much more.
• Chest of Drawers: Another essential for clothes storage, expect to pay €70-€250.
• Bedside Tables: Simple ones can be €20-€60 each, while sets might be €80-€200.
• Lamps: A bedside lamp or standing lamp will be €20-€80 each.

Remember that when it comes to mattresses, hygiene is a big concern for second-hand items. It’s one area where buying new usually offers the best peace of mind and, ultimately, a better night’s sleep.

Kitchen & Dining: Stocking Up the Heart of the Home

While major appliances might be covered, you'll need everything else to make your kitchen functional.

• Dining Table and Chairs: A small dining table with two chairs can be found for €100-€300. For a larger table with four chairs, expect €250-€700.
• Crockery (Plates, Bowls, Mugs): Basic sets for two to four people can be €30-€80.
• Cutlery (Forks, Knives, Spoons): A basic set will cost €20-€50.
• Pots and Pans: A starter set of a few pots and a frying pan could be €40-€100.
• Glasses: Pint glasses, tumblers, or wine glasses can be picked up for €10-€30 for a set.
• Small Appliances:
  • Kettle: €20-€50
  • Toaster: €20-€50
  • Microwave: €50-€150 (often included by landlords, but check)
• Utensils: Spatulas, ladles, can openers, chopping boards – these add up quickly! Budget €50-€100 for a basic set of cooking utensils.
• Food Storage: Tupperware, containers, etc. – €20-€50.

I recall my first few weeks, eating off paper plates because I hadn’t budgeted for a full set of crockery. It’s the small things that can sometimes catch you off guard, but they’re just as essential to making a house a home.

Smaller Necessities: The Bits and Bobs That Add Up

Don't forget all the smaller items that truly make a place liveable. These can collectively add a surprising amount to your overall bill.

• Linen (Duvets, Pillows, Sheets): For a double bed, expect to pay €80-€200 for a duvet, two pillows, and a couple of sheet sets.
• Towels: A set of bath and hand towels for two people could be €30-€80.
• Cleaning Supplies: Vacuum cleaner (€50-€150), mop & bucket (€20-€40), various cleaning products (€30-€50 for a starter pack).
• Laundry Basket/Drying Rack: €15-€40 each.
• Bins: Kitchen bin, bathroom bin – €20-€50.
• Shower Curtain/Bath Mat: If needed, €15-€30.
• Decor: Pictures, plants, candles, etc. – entirely optional and budget-dependent, but can easily add €50-€200+.
• Internet Setup: While not furniture, getting your broadband sorted is a huge step. You might want to check out The Expat Guide to Setting Up Utilities Electricity, Gas, Water in Ireland and How to Set Up Broadband and TV in Ireland. For immediate connectivity while you’re sorting everything, remember services like Airalo offer eSIMs that can keep you connected without a physical SIM card, which is super handy for navigating those initial, frantic setup days.

Estimated Furnishing Costs: A Snapshot

Here’s a rough idea of what you might spend, broken down into budget and mid-range options for a basic 1-bedroom apartment, assuming major white goods are included.

Item Category	Budget (Second-hand/IKEA)	Mid-Range (New, Value Stores)
Living Room	€300 – €700	€700 – €1,500
Sofa, coffee table, TV unit, rug
Bedroom	€400 – €900	€900 – €2,000
Bed frame, mattress, wardrobe, drawers, bedside tables, lamps
Kitchen & Dining	€150 – €400	€400 – €800
Dining table & chairs, basic crockery, cutlery, pots/pans, small appliances
Linens & Towels	€100 – €200	€200 – €400
Duvet, pillows, sheets, bath/hand towels
Cleaning & Misc.	€100 – €250	€250 – €500
Vacuum, mop, bins, shower curtain, basic decor
Total Estimated Cost	€1,050 – €2,450	€2,450 – €5,200

These figures give you a starting point. Your personal choices and how resourceful you are will determine where you land on this spectrum.

Strategies for Saving Money on Home Furnishings

Now that you have a clearer idea of the potential costs, let's talk about how to keep that budget in check. Because, let's face it, moving to a new country like Ireland means there are plenty of other expenses vying for your hard-earned cash. For a broader financial picture, you might want to delve into The Complete Guide to Cost of Living in Ireland for Expats (2026).

Second-hand Treasures: Your Best Friend for a Budget

Embrace the pre-loved! Ireland has a fantastic network of second-hand options that can save you a fortune and often lead to unique finds.

• Facebook Marketplace: This is gold. Seriously, join local buy-and-sell groups for your area (e.g., "Dublin Buy & Sell," "Cork Free Stuff"). People are constantly moving, upgrading, or just decluttering, and you can find everything from sofas to kitchenware, often for free or very cheap. Be prepared to arrange your own collection, which might mean a van rental or a favour from a friend with a large car.
• DoneDeal.ie: Ireland's equivalent of Craigslist or Gumtree. A treasure trove for second-hand furniture, appliances, and pretty much anything else you can think of. Always haggle politely and check the item in person before committing.
• Charity Shops (Charity Retail Ireland): Places like NCBI, SVP (Society of St. Vincent de Paul), and Enable Ireland often have furniture sections. While not always the cheapest, you can find good quality items, and your money goes to a good cause.
• ReUse Centres/Recycling Centres: Many local authorities have reuse centres where items that are still in good condition are sold for a nominal fee. Check your local county council's website for details.
• Freecycle/Freegle: These are online networks where people give things away for free. It's all about community and reducing waste.

When buying second-hand, always inspect items carefully, especially for wear and tear, and be mindful of hygiene, particularly for soft furnishings.

Sales and Discounts: Patience is a Virtue

Furniture stores frequently have sales. If you have some time before you need an item, keep an eye out.

• Seasonal Sales: January sales, summer sales, and Black Friday are big shopping periods where you can snag discounts.
• Clearance Sections: Many larger furniture stores, both physical and online, have clearance sections for ex-display items or discontinued lines.
• IKEA: The beloved Swedish flat-pack giant has a store in Dublin and offers delivery nationwide. It's a go-to for affordable, functional furniture, especially if you're comfortable with a bit of DIY assembly.
• Other Budget-Friendly Retailers: Check out stores like JYSK, Woodies (for household items and some furniture), and Argos for more affordable options. Even Penneys (Primark) is great for cheap towels, bedding, and kitchen bits.

Borrowing, Freecycle, and Community Support

Don't underestimate the power of community.

• Expat Groups: Join expat Facebook groups in Ireland. People often post when they're leaving the country and need to get rid of furniture quickly, sometimes for free or very cheap.
• University Groups: If you're a student or near a university town, student groups (especially at the end of academic terms) can be a source of cheap or free items as people move out.

Shipping Your Own Furniture: When Does It Make Sense?

This is a big question for many expats. Is it cheaper to ship your existing furniture from home or buy everything new in Ireland? The answer depends heavily on the volume of furniture, the distance, and the sentimental value of your items.

• For a few sentimental pieces, or if you have a full house of high-quality furniture, shipping might be economically viable, especially if you're coming from another EU country. However, if you're only planning to stay for a few years, buying new or second-hand might be more cost-effective than shipping large items.
• Comparing international movers' quotes is essential. Services like Sirelo can help you get competitive quotes from various removal companies, which is a great starting point for making this decision. They also offer advice on the logistics, which can be a huge headache on your own.
• Remember to factor in customs duties and VAT if you're moving from outside the EU, although personal effects can often be imported duty-free under certain conditions. For more on this, check out How Much Does It Cost to Ship Belongings to Ireland?.

New vs. Second-Hand: A Realistic Look at Your Options

Deciding whether to buy new or second-hand for each item is a balancing act between cost, convenience, quality, and personal preference.

The Appeal of Buying New

Pros:

• Guaranteed Quality: New items come with warranties and are free from wear and tear.
• Choice: You get to pick exactly what you want in terms of style, colour, and size.
• Convenience: Often delivered directly to your door (though sometimes with a fee and lead time).
• Hygiene: Particularly important for mattresses and upholstered items, new means you're the first user.

Cons:

• Cost: Significantly more expensive than second-hand.
• Environmental Impact: Contributes to manufacturing and transport emissions.
• Depreciation: Furniture loses value quickly once purchased.

For some items, like a new mattress or a sturdy dining table that you plan to keep for years, buying new can be a sound investment.

The Charm and Savings of Second-Hand

Pros:

• Cost Savings: Often drastically cheaper, sometimes even free.
• Environmental Friendliness: Gives items a second life, reducing waste.
• Unique Finds: You can discover vintage pieces or items with character not found in mainstream stores.
• Immediate Availability: If you can collect it, you can have it today.

Cons:

• Condition: Items might have wear and tear, or hidden damage.
• Limited Choice: You're at the mercy of what's available at any given time.
• Logistics: You almost always need to arrange your own collection and transport.
• Hygiene Concerns: Especially for upholstered furniture and mattresses, vigilance is required. Checking for pests or significant stains is crucial.

Many expats adopt a hybrid approach. They might buy a new mattress for peace of mind, but then furnish the rest of their living room with second-hand finds. They might buy a new sofa during a sale but pick up kitchen utensils from charity shops. This strategy allows you to balance your budget with your desire for comfort and quality, making your new home in Ireland both affordable and uniquely yours. As you settle into your new place, remember that the goal is to make it feel like home, and that doesn't always mean spending a fortune on brand new items. You might find some useful tips in How Much Does It Cost to Set Up a Home in Ireland? as you get everything sorted.

Disclaimer

Please note that the information provided in this guide is for general informational purposes only and represents current estimates for 2026. Prices for goods and services in Ireland can fluctuate due to market conditions, inflation, and specific retailer pricing. We recommend consulting with local vendors and financial advisors for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing and financial planning advice.