If you’re wondering how much are living room built ins right now, I’ll tell you straight up, it really depends, but I found prices ranging from a few hundred to several thousand bucks. I went down this rabbit hole recently because I was thinking of adding some built-ins to our living room, and honestly, the cost surprised me.
Some quotes were super affordable, while others made me blink twice. But it all started to make sense once I learned what affects the price. Whether you’re going for a simple DIY shelf setup or a full-blown custom entertainment wall, there’s a lot to think about.
So, if you’re like me and trying to figure out what’s worth it and what’s not, I’ve broken it down in simple words, just like I’d explain it to a friend over coffee.
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What I Found Out About Built-In Prices (And Why They Vary So Much)
So, I quickly realized built-in prices aren’t one-size-fits-all. The cost really depends on what you want and how you want it. Size matters, for sure. A small bookshelf built-in won’t cost you as much as a full media wall with cabinets and lighting.
Then there’s material, solid wood costs way more than MDF or plywood. And don’t even get me started on labor. If you’re going custom with a carpenter, you’re definitely paying for that skill. On the flip side, if you’re doing some IKEA hacks or pre-made installs, it’ll cost way less.
Also, where you live plays a part too. I saw prices swing big between states. All in all, if your style is simple and you’re a bit handy, you can save a good chunk. But if you want that Pinterest look with fancy trim and lighting, get ready to spend more.
Cheap, Mid-Range, and Fancy: What You Can Get at Each Price
Alright, here’s the deal. If you’re on a tight budget, you can go the DIY or IKEA route for as low as $200–$500. It might not look super custom, but it still does the job and looks neat if styled right. Mid-range options fall somewhere between $800–$2,000.
This is usually when you get some semi-custom touches, better materials, and a more built-in feel. That’s what I personally leaned toward because it looked nice without emptying my wallet. Now, if you’re going full custom with a contractor and fancy woodwork, expect $3,000–$8,000 or even more.
That’s where all the extras like soft-close doors, LED lights, and detailed trim come in. But even if you can’t go all out, trust me, there’s always a version of built-ins that fits your space and budget if you’re a bit creative.
And before you spend a chunk of cash, think about what the built-ins are really for. If you’re planning to set up your TV in there, you’ll want to decide first whether it’s going in the living room or family room. Trust me, that choice changes everything.
Is It Worth the Money? Here’s What I’d Do Before Spending
Before I spent a single dollar, I asked myself: do I really need these built-ins, or do I just like the look? The answer was both. But I didn’t want to spend crazy money and then regret it. So I made a list of what I actually needed, like storage for my books, a spot for the TV, and a few cute baskets to hide the mess.
Then I looked around online, saved a bunch of inspo photos, and compared prices. I even asked a local handyman for a quote before deciding if I should DIY or hire someone. My advice? Plan first, measure everything, and know your style.
The cost really depends on what you want and how you want it. For a more detailed breakdown of factors affecting built-in bookshelf costs, you can check out this guide from HomeGuide.
Built-ins can totally change your space, but only if they make sense for your needs. Don’t rush. If you wait for sales or do some of the work yourself, you can save a lot and still get a great look.
FAQs
How much do built-ins typically cost for a living room?
Anywhere from $500 to $8,000, depending on size, material, and if it’s custom or DIY.
Are custom built-ins worth the extra money?
If you want it to match your space perfectly and last long, then yeah, it can totally be worth it.
Can I do built-ins myself to save money?
Yes! You can use pre-made cabinets or bookshelves. It takes some work, but you’ll save a bunch.
Do built-ins add value to a home?
They usually do, especially if they’re done nicely and fit the space well. Buyers love storage.
What’s cheaper, built-ins or buying separate furniture?
Buying furniture is cheaper up front, but built-ins make better use of space and look cleaner.
Conclusion
Living room built-ins don’t have to break the bank. I found that with some planning and the right choices, you can get something that looks amazing and fits your budget. Whether you go DIY or hire help, just focus on what you really need, and don’t stress about making it perfect. You’ll be surprised how much of a difference it makes once it’s done.
I’m Jeniffer, and I help you create a stylish, luxurious home on a budget with smart shopping, DIYs, and design hacks for a high-end look.