How much does a Murphy bed cost? Well, there isn't just one correct answer to this question. Just like there is no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to choosing the right Murphy bed, there is no one price point that fits all either. And like narrowing down the pros and cons of every major purchase, an intersection of price and quality ticks all the boxes.
Key Takeaways:
- The cost of a Murphy bed can vary based on factors like size, materials, and additional features.
- On average, basic Murphy beds can start at around $400 and run to $6,000 for customized versions.
- It's important to consider the long-term benefits of space-saving and functionality of the Murphy bed.
How Much Does a Murphy Bed Cost?
Murphy beds vary significantly in cost. Some models can start as low as $400, while others can clock in at upwards of $6,000. There’s also a sweet middle where affordability and quality meet the wants and needs of most buyers.
With so much diversity in the marketplace, it’s helpful to gain a basic understanding of what features are available at each price point. With that in mind, this comprehensive guide answers the question, "How Much Does a Murphy Bed Cost?"
Factors That Affect Murphy Bed Prices
Size and material also affect the cost of Murphy beds, of course. But there are other elements to consider. The advantage of a Murphy bed is the ability to transform rooms into multifunctional spaces—a value traditional bed sets can't deliver. Here are a few other points to keep in mind.
Assembly Type
The cost varies depending on if you purchase a ready-made or a custom-built one. Some custom units could cost several thousands of dollars, according to Fixr.com. Some manufacturers offer installation at an additional cost.
(Learn how to assemble a Murphy bed in this post)
Box Spring
Unlike traditional mattresses, Murphy beds and wall beds don't require the expense of purchasing a box spring.
Folding Mechanism
It costs the average homeowner roughly $3,000 to install a full-size Murphy bed with traditional pistons in a solid wood cabinet with adjacent shelves, according to Fixr.com. Models like the Lori Bed lift and lower without standard pistons or metal mechanisms. It's a more efficient and less expensive design to manufacture, in return reducing the cost to the consumer.
Material
Just like Ikea furniture is cheaper than Restoration Hardware, Murphy beds made from poor materials—think MDF or particleboard—will be cheaper than made-to-last models. Murphy beds made from real wood may come at a higher price point but are a better investment and still within financial reach.
Manual lift models are still easy to raise and lower without spring or piston assistance and are a big money saver in comparison. Made from 100% real wood, Lori Beds range from $1,199 for a twin to $1,799 for a queen. They are available in vertical and horizontal orientations.
(Murphy bed cost is important. But there are other considerations to keep in mind before buying a Murphy bed. Read about them in this post)
Protection Plans & Warranties
Similar to traditional mattresses and other large purchases, retailers often offer protection plans and warranties at an additional cost. These one-time fees typically average $500. Alternatively, select companies have 100% satisfaction guarantees upon purchase. It’s helpful to consider the manufacturer's policies before making a payment.
Size
Murphy beds are available in twin, full, queen, and king sizes. And just like regular beds, the price increases accordingly. When it comes to Murphy beds, it isn't just the size of the mattress that affects the bottom line. The size of the cabinets often varies from model to model.
For example, Fixr says, "You may have a twin bed with an extra-large cabinet to accommodate bookshelves or a fold-down table. Therefore, some of the cost of the bed is dictated by the cabinet size."
A Murphy Bed Cost Guide
Less Than $899
DIY Murphy Bed frame kits are available online for as low as $400. At this price point, the cost versus benefit is a serious consideration. DIY Murphy Bed models typically use spring mechanisms constructed from steel. The kits usually come with the hardware needed to make the frame but do not come with any cabinets or wood parts. They are barebones, lack style, and leave a lot up to the talent of the installer.
Typically, Murphy beds at this sticker price (particularly the larger size models) are crafted out of cheap materials like MDF or particleboard, which can be flimsy and deteriorate over time. Beds in this range are not intended for long-term use.
Even at the lowest price point, you'll discover vertical and horizontal models—though the orientation doesn't significantly impact the price tag overall.
$900-$1499
In this price range, you'll find a lot of variation in quality. You'll be hard-pressed to find a quality, easy-to-install queen or king-size model for less than $1,100—but they do exist. Basic metal spring twin models made from manufactured or composite wood are commonly available within this budget from major retailers. However, there are notable exceptions that are crafted with higher-quality materials.
Among the drawbacks of the traditional metal or piston lifting mechanisms is the cost. These models cost more than manual lift, ready-to-install models like Lori Beds.
Note: Installing metal springs is also cumbersome and could be dangerous to install without a pro.
Murphy beds at the mid-range price point are much more stylish than their cheaper counterparts. Models are available with various shelving configurations, stain/paints, and often hardware options.
More Than $1,500
With a budget of $1,500+, you'll see Murphy beds with all the bells and whistles. There’s an abundance of stain/paint and hardware options and dozens of shelving and storage designs to fit any aesthetic.
Many of the options have luxury features, such as built-in charging stations with USB ports and power outlets and built-in desks and light fixtures. One of the most expensive options on the market (nearly $10,000) includes a queen-size wall bed, sofa, ottoman, wall cabinets, and headboard. The back wall of that wall bed is even upholstered to match the sofa.
Customized models with built-in TV units, couches, shelving, and cabinetry also drive up costs.
(Did you know there are options for financing a Murphy bed?)
Final Thoughts
Installing a Murphy bed in your small room is a fantastic space-saving solution. But it’s not only an excellent investment for maximizing your space. Rather, it is an investment in your health.
According to The Sleep Foundation, a quality bed makes a big difference in your sleep habits and happiness. It's not a time to cut corners, but you don't have to break the bank. Well-crafted Murphy bed models, such as the Lori Bed, are the sweet middle where affordability and quality meet the wants and needs of most buyers.
Click here to learn more about Lori Beds or shop them today.
Did you learn a lot from this Murphy bed cost guide? Here are three more posts to read next:
- How-To Create The Perfect Guest Room For Your Overnight Visitors
- What You Should Know Before Buying a Murphy Bed
- How to Choose a Murphy Bed Mattress
This post was first published in 2020. It was updated in 2022 just for you.
