Airbnb Furniture Guide: What to Buy, Where to Shop, and What It’ll Cost

Key Takeaways

• The right Airbnb furniture aligns with your market, price tier, and the experience guests expect. 
• Comfort and durability matter most. Choose pieces that photograph well, hold up to wear and tear, and actually meet guest needs based on your property type.
• Furniture will be one of your biggest startup costs, but it’s often tax-deductible and can be safeguarded with insurance, security deposits, and smart sourcing.

Picture “grandma’s house.” An overstuffed floral sofa. Doilies on the coffee table. Maybe an old stuffed animal on the couch. Like it or not, it’s a curated experience. If grandma suddenly threw in a gleaming chrome end table, it’d stick out like a sore thumb and disrupt her lovingly layered aesthetic.

Furnishing an Airbnb works the same way, but with higher stakes. Every piece of furniture sends a message about the kind of stay you’re offering. With so many styles, price points, and guest expectations to juggle, making the right choices can feel like a big (and expensive) decision.

The right Airbnb furniture helps your space stand out, supports great guest experiences, and directly impacts your bottom line. In this guide, we’ll cover how to furnish your Airbnb on a budget, what to know about Airbnb furniture packages, how much it costs to get started, and where to shop for the best value. You’ll also learn what to prioritize and how to protect your Airbnb furniture investment over time.

How to Furnish Your Airbnb Property

Furnishing an Airbnb is more than just filling rooms with stylish pieces. It’s about creating an experience and doing it with purpose.

From the furniture you choose to how it all fits together, every detail helps set guest expectations and shapes how your space feels, photographs, and performs. A thoughtfully furnished rental can drive better reviews, stronger bookings, and higher revenue over time.

Whether you're working with a tight budget or aiming for a luxury feel, putting strategy behind your furniture choices will help your space stand out for all the right reasons.

Here’s what to think about before you go on an Airbnb furniture shopping spree.

Understand your market

Before you start shopping, take time to assess the dynamics of your local short-term rental market. A downtown loft with a high Average Daily Rate (ADR) in a major city will need a very different setup than a seasonal mountain cabin or a coastal bungalow in a vacation-driven market.

Start by analyzing your submarket: the specific neighborhood or area where your property is located, not just the broader city. Look at what types of listings perform well nearby, how much guests are paying, and what styles or amenities appear in top-performing properties. Use local comps to see how similar listings are furnished and positioned.

This matters because guests make decisions based on comparison. If other rentals in your submarket offer a cohesive, high-quality look, yours will need to meet or exceed that standard to stay competitive. Understanding your market helps you choose Airbnb furniture that aligns with your price point, photographs well, and meets the expectations of the guests booking in your area.

Define your property's aesthetic

Once you know your market, it’s easier to choose an aesthetic that fits. Trends like Scandinavian or modern farmhouses are popular, but you don’t have to follow them blindly. Instead, find a look that reflects both your property’s character and your target guests.

Cohesive interior design matters more than the price tag. Upscale West Elm pieces may feel out of place in a value-focused rental, just like budget furnishings won’t cut it in a luxury space. Your furniture should tell a consistent story that feels natural and lived-in, not pieced together at random.

Keep your guests in mind

You’ve decided on a look. Great. Now you need to consider the typical guest who stays at your STR, and what furniture their lifestyle calls for.  For example, if your property caters to a lot of business travelers or digital nomads, make sure you furnish a workspace with a desk, chair, and any other office essentials. If your property caters to families, consider adding kid-friendly furniture or stocking a toy chest.

It’s important to ensure the furniture you choose will make your guests’ lives better for the little while they’re staying in your Airbnb. A hip, hanging chair would make for a great TikTok, and it might even inspire a few bookings. However, if your guests arrive and there’s nowhere truly comfortable to sit? That’s a bust. This goes for your more practical furniture pieces, too. Don’t opt for a trendy dining room table that only seats four if your STR sleeps eight.

Above all else, don’t fall for style over substance. Although it’s tempting to prioritize the look of your space, you shouldn’t sacrifice functionality and comfort to get there.

Choose furniture that's easy to clean

Prioritize Airbnb furniture that is easy to clean. Opt for materials that resist stains and are quick to wipe down, such as leather or faux leather upholstery, laminated wood surfaces, and machine-washable fabrics. Consider furniture with removable and washable covers, making it effortless to freshen up between guest stays. Furniture and fabrics that are easy to clean are especially crucial if your vacation rental is pet-friendly.

Easy-to-clean furniture streamlines your turnover process and keeps your Airbnb in top condition for each new arrival.

Follow safety standards

Whether your furniture comes from Pottery Barn or a garage sale down the block, there’s one thing it must be: safe. While safety may not come to mind when you think of Airbnb furniture, it should. Taking a little time to properly secure furniture can save you big down the road.

Here are some tips to make sure your Airbnb furniture keeps to the highest levels of safety. 

• Anchor beds, dressers, and other large furniture to the wall.
• Install guard rails on all bunk beds.
• Make sure electrical outlets are grounded and otherwise up to code.
• Install cordless blinds to limit choking hazards
• Consider providing other child-proofing items like baby gates.
• Tie down or otherwise secure outdoor furniture (also a key strategy for natural disaster preparedness)

Balance quality and cost 

Finding the right Airbnb furniture means balancing durability, cost, and guest experience. Skip the splurge on every item. Guests won’t always treat pieces with care. Instead, choose sturdy, easy-to-maintain furniture that can handle frequent use. Focus your budget on high-impact items like beds and sofas, and save on lower-use pieces like dining chairs. Shopping secondhand or at budget-friendly stores can stretch your dollars further, and eco-conscious choices may even appeal to guests.

Choose sensible furniture for common areas

Common areas like living rooms and dining spaces see the most guest traffic, so it pays to invest in sofas and tables that can handle frequent use. Opt for sturdy frames made from solid wood or metal, and prioritize machine-washable fabrics to simplify your turnover process.

High-impact pieces such as eye-catching sectionals or statement dining tables can boost listing photos, particularly when paired with cohesive accent decor. Before purchasing, hosts can gather feedback from early guests on mattress firmness or seat cushioning, then make adjustments for improved usability and longevity.

How to Furnish an Airbnb Room by Room

Some Airbnb furniture essentials are more obvious than others. We probably don’t need to tell you that your STR should have at least one bed, and it should probably have a couch, too. Everything else, though, very much depends on your specific rental property.

Here’'s a solid guide to what furniture your Airbnb needs, organized by room:

Bedrooms

• Bed with a headboard: Opt for a nice bed with a headboard to make the room feel a bit higher-end. Also, don’t skimp on the mattress; a comfy bed can make or break a guest’s experience! Opt for a mattress that’s at least 8 inches thick.
• Bedside tables and lamps: Make it easy for guests to leave their belongings on a nightstand and read in bed.
• Accessible outlets:If your outlets are behind the bed or otherwise tough to reach, run an extension cord so guests don’t have to bend over backwards to charge their electronics.
• Dresser: Choose a piece that is sturdy and matches your property’s aesthetic. A dresser is important if you cater to longer-term stays, and especially important if the bedroom doesn’t have much closet space.
• Mirror: Don’t make your guests venture to the bathroom to check a mirror. If you have the space, opt for a full-length floor mirror, or a simple wall mirror will do.

Living Room

• Couch or sectional: First and foremost, make sure that there is enough seating for the number of guests your property accommodates. A high-quality couch is a worthwhile investment since your guests will likely use it a lot.
• Sofabed with a pull-out mattress: Go the extra mile and choose a couch that has a pull-out sofa bed to accommodate more guests. Offering up additional sleeping spaces can justify higher nightly prices, too.
• Armchairs or recliners: Amp up the seating with comfy armchairs that complement the sofa and match the property’s vibe.
• Coffee table or ottoman: Choose a coffee table that makes sense for your unique property. For example, if you cater to families, you might want to avoid a glass coffee table that could break easily.
• Side tables: Make sure you have ample table space with small end tables placed strategically around the room, particularly near any armchairs.
• TV: Unless your property is a cozy cabin that advertises itself as a screen-free retreat, invest in a TV for your living space.
• Adequate lighting: Guests will appreciate tasteful lighting choices, such as table or floor lamps in addition to any overhead lighting.
• Area rug: Liven up the space and add some color or texture with a nice area rug.

Kitchen and Dining Room

• Kitchen island: If your kitchen floor plan allows for an island, it’s a worthwhile investment. Lots of travelers choose Airbnbs over hotels specifically for the kitchen and the ability to cook meals. A kitchen island provides more counter space, a must for larger properties where guests will be cooking for a group.
• Barstools for the island or breakfast bar: If your floor plan can accommodate kitchen seating, definitely invest in stools at the island or counter.
• High chair: If your property is family-friendly, provide a high chair for the kiddos.
• Dining table and chairs: Whether your property sleeps two or ten, include a dining table that matches your guest capacity whenever possible. Guests appreciate having a dedicated place to eat, especially in properties meant for longer stays or group travel.
• Bench seating or expandable tables: If you’re short on space but want to seat more guests, consider a dining bench or expandable table. These offer flexibility without crowding the room.

Patio and outdoor spaces 

• Outdoor couch or loveseat: Give guests the opportunity to lounge outdoors. It’s a huge selling point and can give your property a competitive edge.
• Dining table and chairs: Whether you have space for a small bistro table or a sprawling outdoor dining table, give guests a place to enjoy al fresco dining.
• Umbrella/shade covering: Guests won’t want to use your outdoor space if there isn’t anywhere to sit outside of direct sunlight.
• Fire pit: Opt for a gas fire pit so guests can easily enjoy a cozy fire outside. Provide clear instructions for safe operation. Make the guest stay more memorable with a s'mores kit in your welcome basket.

Workspace or Office 

• Desk: Consider investing in an adjustable standing desk for better ergonomics.
• Desk chair: Choose a chair that is durable and won’t start squeaking after a few hours of use.
• Lighting: Opt for a nice desk lamp to add ambiance.
• Accessible outlets: Make sure there’s an outlet near the desk—and even better, add an outlet extender so guests can plug in all their electronics.

How Much Does It Cost to Furnish an Airbnb?

Furnishing will likely be one of your biggest Airbnb startup costs as a short-term rental host and the total can vary widely depending on your property and goals. If you're looking for a ballpark, here’s what most hosts can expect:

• $3,000–$5,000 for a smaller property furnished on a budget
• $10,000–$20,000 for a mid-range, whole-home setup
• $25,000–$50,000+ for high-end or luxury-level furnishings

Your final spend will depend on the size of the home, how many rooms you’re outfitting, and the level of quality you’re aiming for. Investing in well-made, guest-ready furniture can add up. However, it also tends to pay off in guest experience, nightly rates, and long-term durability.

Tax benefits that can offset the costs of furnishing an Airbnb

Furnishing your Airbnb isn’t just an expense. It may also come with tax benefits. In many cases, the cost of Airbnb furniture can be written off as a business expense, helping you recover some of what you spend.

There are a few ways hosts can do this. Some deduct the full amount in the year they buy the furniture (called Section 179), while others spread the deduction over several years. You may also qualify for bonus depreciation, which lets you write off a larger portion in year one.

If you’re furnishing multiple properties or spending more on setup, ask your tax advisor about cost segregation. It’s a strategy that helps you break out furniture and other items into shorter depreciation periods so you can write them off faster.

Just make sure to keep your receipts and track when items were installed. If you also use the property yourself, part of the cost may need to be prorated.

A quick chat with a tax professional can help you make the most of your deductions, especially if you’re just getting started.

Where to Buy Quality Airbnb Furniture

Furnishing your Airbnb is a big task and choosing where to shop can be just as overwhelming as deciding what to buy. With so many retailers out there, it’s easy to lose time (and money) chasing the wrong options.

Still, there are some tried and true places where short-term rental hosts shop for Airbnb furniture. These sources offer what hosts need most: fast shipping, solid quality, guest-friendly designs, and options for every budget and property type.

IKEA

No, it’s not all about the Swedish meatballs. IKEA is something of a one-stop shop for your Airbnb furniture.

Here, you can buy your bed, bed frame, and bedding all in one place. The same goes for your living room furniture and decor, as well as every other room in your unit.

While IKEA is often a better fit for budget-friendly rentals, many hosts are surprised to find pieces that feel stylish and modern without the luxury price tag. With smart styling and a few upgrades, even lower-cost items can photograph well and hold up to guest use.

Wayfair

Wayfair is a go-to for STR owners thanks to its massive selection, flexible price points, and quick shipping. It’s especially helpful if you’re furnishing multiple units or managing remotely. You can outfit an entire space from one site. Frequent sales and helpful reviews also make it easier to stay on budget without sacrificing quality or style.

West Elm 

West Elm is a favorite among more luxury travelers. If your property has a hefty ADR or is competing against other upscale STRs, consider shopping at West Elm. Their furniture is not only comfortable. It also pops in photographs. Keep in mind that their furniture is pricey and could eat into your profit margins if you’re targeting a lower ADR. If you do choose to shop at West Elm, be strategic about the pieces you invest in. A nice couch will probably garner more guest notice than a fancy coat rack.

Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace

If you’re hosting Airbnbs locally and have time to dedicate to buying furniture in person, Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace may be a great fit for you. You can find great quality pieces at unbelievably low prices. This kind of shopping requires a little more hands-on time, though, as it may take you longer to find furniture that fits your aesthetic.

American Furniture Warehouse

The great thing about American Furniture Warehouse (AFW) is that you know what you’re getting. You can go into an AFW wherever you live, try out some couches, and then order one for wherever your unit may be. This is also a great way to standardize your listings and ensure that all your furniture is comfortable and high-quality. Keep in mind, though, that AFW can have long wait times on their orders, so check delivery times before you make your purchase.

Article 

Article.com is a popular online furniture store known for its modern and stylish designs. With a focus on simplicity and quality craftsmanship, Article offers a wide range of furniture pieces suitable for various Airbnb aesthetics.

One of the standout features of Article is its direct-to-consumer model, which allows it to cut out the middleman and offer competitive prices without compromising on quality. Additionally, Article provides hassle-free delivery and a generous return policy, making it a convenient choice for Airbnb hosts looking to furnish their properties with ease.

Etsy 

Etsy is a treasure trove for unique and handcrafted furniture pieces that can add character and charm to your Airbnb property. From vintage finds to custom-made items, Etsy offers a diverse selection of furniture that caters to various styles and preferences. Whether you're looking for rustic farmhouse tables, bohemian-inspired decor, or one-of-a-kind artisanal pieces, Etsy has something for every taste.

Shopping on Etsy allows Airbnb hosts to support independent artisans and small businesses while also finding pieces that can help set their rental property apart. With Etsy's user-friendly platform and extensive range of sellers, finding the perfect furniture pieces to complement your Airbnb's aesthetic has never been easier.

Pottery Barn

Pottery Barn is a well-known destination for high-quality, stylish furniture and home decor, making it an excellent choice for Airbnb furniture. From classic sofas and beds to chic dining sets and accessories, Pottery Barn's curated collections provide options to suit different tastes and preferences. Additionally, Pottery Barn's attention to detail and craftsmanship means that their pieces stand the test of time, making them a worthwhile investment for your rental property.

Budget-Friendly Airbnb Furniture Ideas

If you're a newer STR host trying to furnish your Airbnb without draining your savings, you're not alone. Startup costs can add up fast, but creating a guest-ready space doesn’t have to mean maxing out your credit card or settling for low-quality pieces.

Here are some tips to help you furnish your Airbnb affordably. 

Shop secondhand

Explore thrift stores, garage sales, and online marketplaces like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace for gently used furniture at discounted prices. You can find unique pieces with character that add charm to your space without breaking the bank.

DIY

Get creative and consider refurbishing or upcycling old furniture to give it a new lease on life. Painting, reupholstering, or adding new hardware can transform outdated pieces into stylish additions to your Airbnb.

Rent or borrow

If you're on a tight budget or only need furniture temporarily, consider renting or borrowing items instead of buying them outright. Look for furniture rental companies in your area that offer flexible rental terms and a variety of styles to choose from.

Choose multifunctional pieces

Maximize space and functionality by investing in multifunctional furniture pieces that serve multiple purposes. For example, a sleeper sofa can double as a bed for guests, while a dining table with built-in storage provides extra space for essentials.

Shop at discount retailers

Shop at budget-friendly retailers or online stores that offer affordable furniture options without compromising on quality. Look for sales, clearance items, and discount codes to save even more on your purchases.

If you're still coming up short, some hosts explore Airbnb business loans to ease the upfront cost and get their rental guest-ready faster.

Renting vs. Buying Airbnb Furniture

Buying furniture outright isn’t your only option. If you’re furnishing your first property, testing a new market, or trying to keep startup costs low, renting can offer a flexible way to get set up without a large upfront investment.

With furniture rentals, you pay a monthly fee instead of purchasing everything at once. Many rental providers also offer Airbnb furniture packages: pre-designed sets that include coordinated pieces for bedrooms, living rooms, and dining spaces. These packages can speed up the setup process and create a cohesive look with minimal effort.

The trade-off is long-term cost and control. While renting or using furniture packages may be easier in the short term, costs can add up over time and eventually exceed the price of buying. Packages also limit customization, and some providers lock hosts into contracts that reduce flexibility if your needs change.

Buying, on the other hand, requires more capital upfront but typically delivers better long-term value and full control over style, quality, and upgrades.

In most cases, the right choice comes down to your budget, timeline, and how long you plan to operate the rental. Renting or packages can make sense for short-term or cash-conscious setups, while buying is often the better move for long-term hosts.

Top Airbnb Furniture Services and Memberships

Did you know that there are membership programs you can join to get discounts on furniture (and other supplies) for your Airbnb?

Let’s take a look at two of the leading companies dedicated to helping hosts furnish their short-term rentals.

HostGPO

HostGPO is the vacation rental industry’s original group purchasing organization (GPO), which you can think of as a collective that unites to leverage its purchasing power to get discounts for members. GPOs are common in the hospitality and healthcare industries, and now they’ve arrived in the STR market.

HostGPO offers members-only discounts on furniture, linens, mattresses, and more for short-term vacation rentals, partnering with leading brands to help you save big.

With HostGPO, you can get discounts on furniture from popular brands like:

• Article
• CB2
• West Elm
• Pottery Barn
• Crate & Barrel

Most discounts through HostGPO are between 30% and 75%, and members save an average of $12,292 each year.

Minoan

Minoan is a free-to-join, no-obligations membership program that helps Airbnb hosts and vacation rental owners save money on property essentials, including furniture, from top consumer brands.

You can save up to 60% on goods for your Airbnb by purchasing through the Minoan Shopping Assistant. Minoan’s centralized ordering system also empowers you to check out quickly with just a click and track your deliveries from one dashboard.

Protecting Your Airbnb Furniture Investment

Furnishing a short-term rental isn’t cheap and once everything’s in place, protecting that investment becomes just as important as choosing the right pieces. While you can’t prevent every spill, scratch, or scuff, you can put smart systems in place to minimize damage and recoup losses when things go wrong. 

Here’s what you can do to protect your investment in Airbnb furniture. 

Collect security deposits

On both Airbnb and Vrbo, hosts can implement a security deposit at their own discretion. If your furniture is high-value, you might consider a deposit in the event of damage. Read up on the policies for both platforms before you do.

Get short-term rental insurance

Short-term rentals aren’t covered under homeowners’ or landowners’ insurance. Protect your assets by ensuring you have adequate coverage from a vacation rental insurance company.

Screen your guests

Though everyone deserves the benefit of the doubt, not all guests will have respect for your STR. The best way to separate the good from the bad is toscreen guests. Read what other hosts have said about them. If they damaged the furniture during their most recent stay, you might reconsider accepting that booking.

FAQs

How much does it cost to furnish an Airbnb?

The average cost to furnish an Airbnb rental property in the United States ranges widely based on property size and quality level. For a small property on a budget, expect to spend between $3,000-$5,000. Mid-range, whole-home furnishing packages typically cost $10,000-$20,000, while high-end or luxury properties can require $25,000-$50,000 or more in furnishing costs. The cost to furnish a home varies widely based on the quality of the furniture, the size of the home, and the number of rooms.

Where do Airbnb owners buy furniture?

Many hosts purchase furniture from large online retailers like Wayfair because of its extensive range of styles and price points. Others enjoy browsing IKEA for budget-friendly items that are easy to replace if damaged. Local thrift shops and secondhand marketplaces also attract hosts seeking unique finds at lower costs. Additionally, some hosts utilize specialized membership programs or trade sources to access discounts on quality furnishings.

What is the 80/20 rule for Airbnb?

This principle suggests that around 80% of the impact on your hosting success often comes from 20% of your efforts. In the context of furniture, focusing on big-ticket items like high-quality beds or a showpiece dining area can generate the majority of guest satisfaction.

Can I rent furniture for an Airbnb?

Yes, renting furniture for an Airbnb is a viable option if you prefer to avoid a large upfront cost. The cost of furniture rental varies based on property size and style, but the content gap research notes that mid-range packages might run between $500 and $1,200 per month. High-end setups can go for $2,000 or more monthly, especially if you opt for designer pieces. Rentals also give you flexibility to change styles faster, though cumulative rental fees can exceed the one-time expense of buying outright.

What are Airbnb furniture packages?

Airbnb furniture packages are pre-curated sets of furnishings designed to help hosts quickly outfit their rental properties. These packages typically include everything from beds and sofas to dining sets and decor, often tailored to the size or layout of a typical short-term rental.

They can be a great option for hosts who want to save time or simplify setup, especially if you're furnishing a property remotely or managing multiple units. Just keep in mind that packages can be more expensive than sourcing pieces individually, and you’ll have less flexibility to customize the style or layout.

Can I claim furniture for Airbnb?

Yes, the expenses you incur to furnish your short-term rental can be considered deductible business costs. These items often fall under a 5-year property classification, allowing you to recover costs through depreciation. You may also qualify for accelerated methods like Section 179 or bonus depreciation, depending on your overall tax situation. Keep detailed records of your purchases and consult a tax professional to ensure compliance.