Budgeting for new carpet can be tricky, but this guide offers clear starting points for basic, mid-grade, and luxury options. With prices including carpet, padding, installation, and more, you can confidently estimate the cost of transforming your home with cozy new flooring.
Did you know that carpet still accounts for nearly 50% of all floors installed throughout America? Carpet is still the best flooring option for bedrooms, upstairs areas, game rooms, media rooms, and more. Carpet’s warmth, sound absorption, and budget-friendly pricing help keep it one of the top flooring choices for families today.
You can schedule a free in-home estimate here.
So how much should you budget for new carpet?
That will depend on the type of carpet you select which is often dictated by your lifestyle and how long you plan on living in the home. Our budget recommendations are as follows:
For Basic carpet, budget $3 per SQFT.
For Mid-Grade carpet, budget $4.50 per SQFT.
For Luxury carpet, budget $6 per SQFT.
What is included in this carpet pricing?
Carpet, carpet padding/underlayment, professional installation labor, old carpet removal, disposal fees and taxes.
(Note: When price shopping, keep in mind most places like Home Depot only show you pricing for the carpet materials. They don’t include things like padding or taxes.)
Below is a quick and easy guide for ballpark pricing for Basic, Mid-Grade and Luxury Carpet Pricing. Keep in mind all prices are subject to scope of work, materials selected and variables that change from job to job.
How Much Does Carpet Installation Cost?
| Square Footage | Cost to Install Basic Carpet | Cost to Install Mid-Range Carpet | Cost to Install Luxury Carpet |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100 sqft | $600 | $750 | $900 |
| 200 sqft | $800 | $1,100 | $1,400 |
| 300 sqft | $1,000 | $1,450 | $1,900 |
| 400 sqft | $1,300 | $1,900 | $2,500 |
| 500 sqft | $1,600 | $2,350 | $3,100 |
| 750 sqft | $2,400 | $3,500 | $4,600 |
| 1,000 sqft | $3,000 | $4,600 | $6,000 |
| 1,200 sqft | $3,700 | $5,500 | $7,300 |
| 1,500 sqft | $4,650 | $7,000 | $9,000 |
| 2,000 sqft | $6,000 | $9,000 | $12,000 |
Prices listed above include Carpet Material, Padding, Installation Labor, Furniture Moving, Disposal Fees and Taxes.
Want more exact pricing? Please click here to use our Carpet Calculator.
Ready to schedule your free in home estimate? Please click here to schedule today!
How Much Does It Cost to Carpet a 12x12 Room?
A 12×12 room covers 144 square feet. Here’s your investment:
- Basic carpet: $1,663 to $1,838
- Mid-grade carpet: $2,375 to $2,625
- Luxury carpet: $3,088 to $3,413
Price includes: Installation Labor, Carpet, Pad, Tax and Disposal Fees.
Want to see what the carpet installation process looks like?
Watch our video below!
What Factors Affect Carpet Installation Costs?
Carpet Type and Material
- Polyester: Most affordable option
- Nylon: Durable, mid-range pricing
- Wool: Premium natural fiber, highest cost
- Olefin/Polypropylene: Budget-friendly, stain-resistant
Learn more: The Ultimate Guide to Carpet Fibers, Textures and Materials.
Room Size and Layout
- Larger rooms offer better cost per square foot
- Complex layouts with angles increase labor costs
- Stairs require additional installation time and materials
Geographic Location
- Urban areas typically cost 10-20% more
- Rural areas may have limited installer availability
- Regional labor rates vary significantly.
What Are Common Carpet Installation Mistakes to Avoid?
1. Focusing Only on Material Cost
Many retailers advertise carpet prices without including padding, installation, or taxes. Always ask for total project cost including:
- Carpet materials
- Quality padding
- Professional installation
- Furniture moving
- Old carpet removal
- Disposal fees
- Applicable taxes
2. Skipping Professional Installation
DIY installation may seem cost-effective but can lead to:
- Premature wear and tear
- Bubbles or wrinkles in carpet
- Voided manufacturer warranties
- Poor appearance and comfort
- Potential safety hazards
3. Choosing Inadequate Padding
Quality padding extends carpet life by 50% or more. Invest in:
- Proper thickness (typically 7/16″ to 1/2″)
- Appropriate density for traffic level
- Moisture barrier in basements
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does carpet installation take?
Most residential carpet installations take 4-8 hours for 1-4 rooms of carpet. Whole-house installations require a full day.
When is the best time to install carpet?
The real answer is whenever is best for your schedule. Time of year does not effect the carpet installation.
How often should carpet be replaced?
Quality carpet typically lasts 10-15 years with proper maintenance. Some carpet options can last longer depending on the quality of the carpet and proper installation.
Can I install carpet over existing flooring?
Carpet can be installed over most hard surfaces, but removing old flooring often provides better results and longevity.
Conclusion
Carpet installation costs range from $3-$6 per square foot for complete installation. While basic carpet offers budget-friendly options, investing in mid-grade or luxury carpet provides better durability and long-term value. Always obtain multiple quotes and ensure all costs are included in your estimates for accurate budgeting.
Remember that professional installation is crucial for warranty coverage and optimal performance. With proper planning and research, you can find quality carpet installation that fits your budget and enhances your home’s comfort and value.
