Where to Buy Affordable Carpet: Top 9 Places Near You (With Unbeatable Prices)

Decorating your home or remodeling can be a fun and exciting project, but it can also be a bit overwhelming and costly. From choosing paint colors to selecting furniture, there's a lot to think about and a lot to spend on. One of the more significant expenses is flooring, particularly carpeting, which can range from $3.50 to $11 per square foot.

However, don't fret! There are ways to get quality carpets without emptying your wallet.

Your best options are national and regional home improvement centers along with specialized flooring stores. Many of these stores also offer free installation, which can save you even more money. Here are some of the best places where you can find affordable carpets near you.

1. Lowe's

If you're on a tight budget, Lowe's is a great place to start. Known for their competitive prices on a wide range of home products, Lowe's offers everything from refrigerators and ovens to carpets, rugs, and tiles. You can find carpet options starting as low as $0.53 per square foot. They have a great selection both online and in-store, making it easy to find the perfect carpet for your home. Plus, you can often find special deals and discounts, which can help you save even more.

2. Home Depot

Home Depot is another excellent place to find great deals on carpets. With prices starting at $0.67 per square foot, you can find affordable options that fit your budget. Home Depot also offers free installation on carpet purchases over $699, which can be a significant saving. You can browse their wide selection of carpets online or visit a local store to see the options in person. They often have special promotions and discounts, so it's worth keeping an eye out for those.

3. Carpet Express

If you're looking for a wide variety of options, Carpet Express is a fantastic choice. They offer both commercial and residential carpets at wholesale prices, with some options as low as $0.71 per square foot. You can order samples to help you decide, and most are shipped for free. Although Carpet Express is based in Georgia and has two store locations there, they ship nationwide and can help you find local installers. Their customer service is top-notch, and you can easily reach them by phone for assistance. They carry carpets from well-known brands like Royal Dutch, Mohawk, and Shaw.

4. Flooring America

Flooring America offers a diverse range of carpets and includes installation services. They also have a price protection guarantee: if you find the same brand and style of carpet for a lower price within 30 days of purchase, they'll refund the difference. With over 500 locations, it's easy to find a store near you where you can view the carpets in person. They often have sales and promotions, so be sure to check their website or visit a store for the latest deals.

5. Empire Today

Empire Today is known for offering a variety of carpet types, including their exclusive hypoallergenic and odor-neutralizing Home Fresh line. They provide installation services and frequently have promotions, such as $250 off when you sign up for their emails. While they don't have showrooms, you can browse their selection online and request a free in-home estimate. This personalized service means you can see how the carpet will look in your home before making a decision.

6. Carpet One

Carpet One, a cooperative with 1,000 stores nationwide, offers a wide selection of carpets, from plush to pet-friendly options. They feature well-known brands like Bigelow and Innovia. You can order up to six samples for $12, including shipping, to help you decide. They also have a satisfaction guarantee called "The Beautiful Guarantee," which promises to replace your carpet for free if you're not happy with it. Carpet One frequently has sales and promotions, so be sure to check their website or visit a store to see the latest deals.

7. Costco

If you're already a Costco member, consider getting your carpet there. Costco has partnered with Shaw Flooring for flooring materials and subcontracts local contractors for installation. Costco offers a 15% Shop Card on qualifying purchases, which can be a great saving. Although they don't list carpet options online, you can contact them for details and get a quote for installation. The process is straightforward: just call the number on their website to request a free in-home consultation.

8. Abbey Carpet & Floor

Abbey Carpet & Floor has been around since 1958 and offers a range of carpets from brands like Mohawk, J Mish, and Stainmaster, as well as their own collections. They have over 800 showrooms across the U.S. and Canada, so you're likely to find one near you. They provide a lifetime warranty on their exclusive carpets, giving you peace of mind with your purchase. Prices aren't listed online, so visit a showroom to explore your options and get a quote. Abbey Carpet & Floor often has promotions and discounts, so be sure to ask about any current deals when you visit.

9. Local Carpet Stores

Don't overlook local, family-run carpet stores. These smaller shops often buy directly from manufacturers, offering competitive prices and personalized service. They usually provide installation services as well. While you might not find as wide a selection of carpet brands and styles as at big box stores like Lowe's, you will get great prices and excellent customer service. It's essential to check reviews or get recommendations to ensure you're dealing with a reputable store.

Summary

Buying carpet doesn't have to be a daunting or overly expensive task. There are plenty of affordable options available that don't compromise on quality. With prices as low as $0.53 per square foot, you can find a great deal that fits your budget and style. Whether you prefer a big box store like Lowe's or a local mom-and-pop shop, there are plenty of places to find the perfect carpet for your home. Keep an eye out for sales and promotions, and take advantage of free installation offers to save even more. Happy shopping!