30 Apartment Decorating Ideas on a Budget

Are you tired of your rental feeling bland without breaking your lease or your bank account?

Moving into a new place is exciting, but decorating can drain your wallet fast.

Don’t worry—you don’t need expensive renovations to create a stylish sanctuary.

We’ve rounded up 30 smart, affordable, and renter-friendly ideas for apartment decorating on a budget that will totally transform your space this weekend!

1. Thrifted Furniture Finds

Thrifting is the ultimate secret weapon for apartment decorating on a budget. Save big by shopping secondhand, which is not only cost-effective but also gives your home a unique character that new store-bought items simply can’t match. Thrift stores, Facebook Marketplace, or estate sales often have hidden gems like solid wood dressers or vintage side tables just waiting for a quick makeover. This sustainable approach helps the planet and your bank account simultaneously.

• Look for solid wood pieces, not particle board, as they are easier to refinish and far more durable.
• Negotiate prices politely on online marketplaces, and don’t be afraid to walk away if the price isn’t right.
• Check the structure and stability (legs, drawers, joints) thoroughly before you commit to buying.
• Check community apps like Nextdoor or Buy Nothing groups for free or cheap local pickups.

Pro Tip: Look for well-built furniture you can repaint or reupholster.

2. DIY Wall Art

Instead of spending hundreds on expensive gallery pieces, embrace your creative side and design your own wall art. You can easily create unique, personalized pieces using inexpensive canvas from craft stores, simple printable quotes, or budget-friendly acrylic paints. This method allows you to perfectly customize the size and color palette to match your existing décor, ensuring a cohesive and stylish result without the high cost.

• Use simple geometric shapes and bold colors for a modern look that requires minimal artistic skill.
• Try painting abstract art—it requires zero artistic skill, just layering colors until you love the result!
• Hang small canvases in groups of three (triptychs) or five for impact that rivals large, expensive art.
• Use a potato or sponge for easy, repeating pattern stamps on canvas to mimic high-end textile art.

Pro Tip: Use thrifted frames to elevate the look for less.

3. Multi-Functional Furniture

In smaller apartments, every piece of furniture must earn its keep, which is why multi-functional items are key to apartment decorating on a budget. Choose pieces that solve two problems at once, such as ottomans that offer both seating and clever hidden storage, or sofa beds that seamlessly transition to host overnight guests. This prevents the need for excess furniture, keeping your space streamlined and maximizing utility in every square foot.

• Buy a coffee table with hidden compartments to stow remotes, magazines, or extra blankets.
• Use cube storage units as side tables; they offer a flat surface on top and organization below.
• Invest in a storage bench for the entryway to provide a place to sit and a spot for shoes and keys.
• Look for narrow console tables that can easily double as a desk or a dining buffet when entertaining.

Pro Tip: Opt for pieces that fold or stack to maximize small spaces.

4. Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper

Landlords usually forbid painting, but peel-and-stick wallpaper is a fantastic, commitment-free way to add dramatic style without damaging your walls. This removable wallpaper comes in endless patterns, textures, and even faux finishes like wood or shiplap, making it completely renter-friendly. It’s an inexpensive solution to add personality and visual interest to a boring room, and you can easily peel it off when it’s time to move.

• Measure twice, cut once—this will save material and ensure the pattern lines up seamlessly.
• Use a squeegee or plastic smoothing tool to smooth out bubbles as you apply each strip.
• Choose a bold pattern you really love since it will be the focal point of the space.
• Apply the paper to the inside back wall of a bookcase or hutch for a custom, built-in look.

Pro Tip: Use on an accent wall to save money and make more impact.

5. Upcycle Glass Jars

Don’t toss those glass jars from salsa or pickles—they are perfect for chic, eco-friendly décor! Once cleaned, they can be repurposed as vases, planters, or stylish storage containers throughout your apartment. This not only saves you money on buying new organizational items but also adds a lovely handmade touch to your kitchen, bathroom, or living area.

• Remove stubborn labels by soaking them in warm, soapy water with a tablespoon of baking soda.
• Paint the outside using acrylic or spray paint for an opaque, modern look that hides the contents.
• Group different-sized jars together on a tray or shelf for a cohesive and layered display.
• Use them in the pantry for bulk goods, or in the bathroom for cotton balls and bath salts.

Pro Tip: Add twine or ribbon for a farmhouse or boho look.

6. Layered Curtains

Layering curtains is a professional designer trick that adds immediate visual weight and a luxe, textured feel to your windows without requiring expensive, custom drapes. Hang one set of sheer panels closest to the window to filter light and add privacy, and a second set of solid-colored panels on the outside for depth and full light-blocking capability. This budget-friendly solution instantly makes your rental feel sophisticated and well-dressed.

• Hang the rod high (close to the ceiling) and wide (extending past the frame) to make the windows look significantly bigger.
• Stick to complementary colors, like classic white sheer and neutral gray solid, for timeless elegance.
• Ensure the curtains are long enough to pool slightly on the floor; this draping adds a high-end effect.
• Use clip rings on the curtain rod to make opening and closing the panels easier and faster.

Pro Tip: Use a tension rod if drilling isn’t allowed.

7. DIY Floating Shelves

If you are comfortable with light construction, making your own floating shelves is a great way to gain stylish storage space without the sticker shock of pre-made units. You can purchase inexpensive brackets and lengths of wood from any hardware store and customize the finish to suit your personal style. These are perfect for showcasing books, small plants, or decorative knick-knacks and maximizing vertical storage.

• Measure the space carefully and use a level tool to ensure they are mounted perfectly straight.
• Use them in the kitchen for open-pantry storage, displaying colorful spices and dishware.
• Secure them into wall studs for stability, especially if you plan to store heavy items like books.
• Plan the spacing between shelves based on the height of the objects you intend to display.

Pro Tip: Stain or paint to suit your decor theme.

8. Removable Backsplash Tiles

If your rental kitchen or bathroom is suffering from drab, outdated tile or paint, you can easily transform the area using peel-and-stick backsplash tiles. These budget-friendly alternatives mimic the look and texture of real tiles and are completely renter-approved because they remove cleanly. It’s a fantastic, low-effort way to add a major style upgrade to highly visible areas like the space behind the sink or stove.

• Ensure the existing surface is totally clean, dry, and smooth before you begin application for the best adhesion.
• Use sharp scissors or a utility knife for precise cutting around tricky obstacles like electrical outlets.
• Start from the center of the wall and work your way outwards to maintain perfect symmetry.
• If using a mosaic pattern, try to find sheets that lock together to hide seams for a professional look.

Pro Tip: Stick to classic patterns like subway tile for timeless appeal.

9. Indoor Plants

Adding indoor plants is one of the quickest and most effective ways to instantly freshen up any room, bringing a touch of nature inside your apartment. Plants can be very affordable if you start with small pots or simply take cuttings from existing healthy plants. They not only look beautiful but also help purify the air and add a relaxing, calming element to your living space.

• Choose low-maintenance, hardy varieties like snake plants, ZZs (Zamioculcas zamiifolia), or succulents.
• Group plants in odd numbers (three or five) and varying heights for a natural, layered display.
• Use cute planters, which you can often find thrifted or affordably at yard sales, to complement your style.
• Remember to check the light requirements for each plant and place them accordingly near windows.

Pro Tip: Propagate pothos or spider plants to create even more greenery for free.

10. Gallery Wall with Personal Touch

A gallery wall is a perfect budget-friendly solution for personalizing a large, empty wall space. Create a collage using a mix of family photos, travel postcards, children’s drawings, or DIY prints for a look that is completely customized and meaningful. This setup allows you to showcase your memories and passions while filling a large area for minimal cost.

• Mix different frame sizes, colors, and materials (wood, metal, plastic) for an eclectic and curated vibe.
• Include small, meaningful memorabilia like concert ticket stubs, small mirrors, or vintage keys.
• For a harmonious look, use photos with a consistent color filter or stick to black and white prints.
• Add dimension by incorporating a small wall sconce or a piece of 3D art into the arrangement.

Pro Tip: Use paper templates on the wall to plan your layout before hanging.

11. Use Mirrors to Open Up Space

Mirrors are a decorator’s magic trick, especially in small apartment decorating on a budget projects. Placing a large mirror opposite a window or other light source will reflect natural light deep into the room, instantly making the space feel visually much larger and brighter than it actually is. They also add a great decorative element without taking up floor space.

• Lean a full-length mirror against the wall instead of hanging it to avoid damaging the drywall.
• Group several small, round, or geometric mirrors together to create a striking, modern display.
• Ensure the mirror reflects something attractive, like a piece of art or a beautiful indoor plant.
• Use mirror tiles to create a custom geometric wall feature that adds sparkle and light.

Pro Tip: Thrifted gold-framed mirrors make chic vintage statements.

12. Repurpose Old Furniture

Before you throw out or replace an old, tired piece of furniture, consider repurposing or transforming it to give it new life. A new coat of paint, a change of hardware, or a completely new function can save you a significant amount of money compared to buying new items. Repurposing is a fun and creative way to customize your home décor without purchasing anything new.

• Turn an old, solid dresser into a striking bathroom vanity by cutting a hole for the sink and refreshing the paint.
• Convert a simple bookcase into a display cabinet by adding mesh or glass panels to the front.
• Replace the legs on an old sofa or armchair with sleek, modern tapered legs for an instant contemporary update.
• Use decorative stencils on the front of drawers to add unique patterns and visual texture.

Pro Tip: Chalk paint is easy to use and requires no sanding.

13. Clip-On Railing Planters

If you have a small balcony, clip-on railing planters are the perfect solution to maximize your outdoor space for minimal cost. These easily attach to the railing, allowing you to dress up your exterior space with colorful flowers or fresh herbs without sacrificing floor area. They are a fun way to bring life to a concrete balcony and create an inviting outdoor retreat.

• Choose colorful, weather-resistant plastic or powder-coated metal options that can handle the elements.
• Plant bright, low-maintenance flowers like geraniums or useful culinary herbs like basil and mint.
• Ensure they have proper drainage holes to prevent root rot and to keep the patio tidy and clean.
• Use automatic watering spikes or self-watering pots if you don’t have time for daily watering.

Pro Tip: Add trailing plants like ivy or petunias for a lush vibe.

14. Swap in New Hardware

Swapping out the existing hardware on kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities, or dressers is a ridiculously easy and low-cost way to instantly upgrade the look of an entire room. Removing basic, dated knobs and replacing them with modern pulls or handles can give an old space a fresh, contemporary feel in minutes. This small detail makes a massive difference in the overall perceived value of your apartment.

• Measure the existing hole spacing (center-to-center) carefully before buying new pulls to ensure they fit the holes.
• Matte black, brushed brass, or sleek silver hardware are currently very popular and elevate the look.
• Check the clearance or overstock sections at hardware stores and online retailers for great deals.
• Upgrade your door handles and hinges in addition to cabinet knobs for a fully coordinated look.

Pro Tip: Keep the old hardware so you can replace it when moving out.

15. Use Rugs to Define Space

Rugs are your best friend in a rental apartment, both for aesthetics and functionality. Use large area rugs to break up confusing open-concept layouts into distinct zones (e.g., living versus dining), or simply cover old, unsightly rental flooring you can’t stand. They add essential texture, warmth, and sound dampening, making any space feel more finished and cozy.

• Ensure the rug is large enough for at least the front legs of major furniture pieces (like the sofa) to rest on it.
• Use a high-quality non-slip rug pad underneath; this prevents slipping and adds extra cushioning.
• Use multiple smaller, matching rugs to define pathways in a long hallway or open area.
• For visual appeal, layer a smaller, colorful patterned rug over a larger, cheaper jute or sisal rug.

Pro Tip: Layer a smaller, colorful rug over a cheaper jute rug for more impact.

16. Mason Jar Storage

Mason jars are the versatile workhorse of apartment decorating on a budget and organizing, perfect for nearly every room in the house. Use these affordable glass containers in the bathroom, kitchen, or office to store everything from q-tips and cotton pads to utensils, pens, or spices. They offer clear visibility of contents and lend a rustic yet organized aesthetic to your storage.

• Screw the lids to the underside of a cabinet shelf or floating shelf for clever hanging storage that saves countertop space.
• Use different sizes of jars (pint, quart) for different items to create visual hierarchy.
• Spray paint the lids or bands for a uniform, chic look that matches your room’s color scheme.
• Use vintage blue or green jars for an added pop of color without needing to paint them.

Pro Tip: Label each jar with chalkboard paint or stickers.

17. Temporary Room Dividers

In studio apartments or large, open-plan rentals, temporary room dividers are an essential trick for creating privacy and separation without expensive renovations. Use tall, open bookshelves, hanging curtains, or lightweight folding screens to physically and visually separate sleeping, living, or working spaces. This defines the function of each area, making the entire apartment feel more orderly and intentional.

• Hang a curtain from a ceiling-mounted wire track or adjustable tension rods to create a soft divide in minutes.
• A folding privacy screen made of bamboo or woven material adds a spa-like, calming element and texture.
• Ensure the divider still allows some light to pass through (like an open shelf unit) to prevent the space from feeling too small.
• Place the divider strategically to block sight lines from the front door to the sleeping area.

Pro Tip: Use IKEA KALLAX shelves to divide and store at the same time.

18. Neutral Base with Colorful Accents

This is the golden rule for cost-effective decorating: keep your big, expensive-to-replace pieces (like sofas, rugs, and main drapery) in neutral shades like beige, gray, or white. Then, express your personality and style through colorful, inexpensive accents like throw pillows, blankets, vases, or artwork. This approach makes it easy and cheap to refresh your entire room simply by swapping out accessories.

• Choose shades like beige, gray, or white for the main furniture so they never go out of style.
• Change accent colors with the seasons (e.g., deep rust in fall, bright mint in spring) for a renewed look.
• Throw pillows and blankets are a great chance to play with luxurious texture (velvet, knit, faux fur).
• Use vibrant colored lampshades or statement vases as focal points that are easy to move or swap.

Pro Tip: Swap accessories seasonally without breaking the bank.

19. DIY Candle Holders

Create a cozy, ambient atmosphere in your apartment by crafting your own unique candle holders using repurposed materials. You can upcycle items like cleaned tin cans, small wood pieces, or wine bottles into charming, handmade holders for votives or pillars. This personal touch adds character and warmth, perfect for evening ambiance.

• Drill holes into a thick plank of reclaimed wood to create a simple, rustic linear holder for votive candles.
• Wrap tin cans tightly in decorative paper, twine, or spray paint them metallic gold for a high-end look.
• Use safe, flameless LED candles or battery-operated fairy lights for a completely renter-friendly solution.
• Fill clear glasses or jars with coffee beans, sand, or river stones to safely embed tea lights.

Pro Tip: Look up easy tutorials on YouTube or Pinterest.

20. Repurpose Old Ladders

An old wooden ladder is a versatile, trendy, and non-permanent solution for storage and display in any room. Simply lean the ladder against the wall to hang blankets, towels, or even small potted plants. This utilizes vertical space creatively and adds an architectural, rustic, or industrial element to your décor depending on the ladder’s finish.

• Use S-hooks or clip-on baskets to hang small items like scarves, magazines, or bathroom supplies off the rungs.
• Before placing it indoors, make sure the ladder is clean, stable, and splinter-free.
• Place it in a corner of the living room (for throws) or the bathroom (for towels) for easy access.
• Secure the top with a museum putty or double-sided tape if you’re worried about it slipping against the wall.

Pro Tip: Don’t paint the ladder for a rustic farmhouse look.

21. Gallery Wall with Free Printables

Achieving a high-end gallery look on a super tight budget is easy if you leverage the wealth of free printable art available online. Search for high-resolution images like abstract art, botanical sketches, or vintage patent prints that you can print at home or at a cheap online service. By using cohesive frames, no one will ever know the art was free!

• Print the designs on slightly heavier cardstock or matte paper for a more professional feel.
• Look for abstract, botanical, or vintage patent prints to find timeless, high-quality images.
• Use a mix of thick and thin frames in a consistent color (like all black) to unify the disparate prints.
• Use different orientations (portrait and landscape) to create visual flow and interest on the wall.

Pro Tip: Mix sizes and shapes for better visual interest.

22. Use Baskets for Stylish Storage

Woven or canvas baskets are the perfect blend of style and utility for apartment decorating on a budget. They are fantastic for instantly hiding clutter—like toys, pet supplies, or charging cords—while simultaneously doubling as attractive décor elements. Baskets instantly add texture, warmth, and an organized feel to a sometimes chaotic living space.

• Use large, robust woven baskets for blanket and throw storage right next to the couch.
• Small ones are great for organizing cleaning products, toilet paper, or toiletries under the bathroom sink.
• Look for baskets with interesting patterns, leather handles, or tassels to elevate their decorative appeal.
• Place a thin piece of wood over the top of a wide basket to turn it into a temporary side table.

Pro Tip: Stack them vertically to save floor space.

23. Floor Cushions for Extra Seating

Floor cushions, poufs, or large textured pillows are an absolute lifesaver when you need instant, flexible extra seating for guests but don’t have space or budget for another armchair. They are perfect for movie nights, board games, or casual entertaining in tiny spaces because they are easily brought out and tucked away. Choose interesting fabrics to make them a stylish décor accent.

• Choose a chunky knit, rich velvet, or heavy corduroy fabric for extra texture and durability.
• They’re lightweight and easy to tuck away into a closet or underneath a console table when not in use.
• Look for poufs made from recycled materials (like old clothing or plastic fibers) for an eco-friendly choice.
• Use them as temporary footrests or even small, makeshift side tables in a pinch.

Pro Tip: Choose washable covers if you have pets or kids.

24. DIY Macrame Plant Hangers

Macrame plant hangers are incredibly affordable to create and have enjoyed a major comeback in trendy apartment décor. With just a few basic materials like cotton rope and a simple tutorial, you can hand-tie your own hangers, giving your space a beautiful, organic, and textural element. This allows you to utilize vertical space for plants, keeping them safely off valuable tabletops and adding a boho vibe.

• Requires only rope and a few basic, repetitive knots (like square knots) which are easy to learn.
• Hang multiple macrame hangers at varying heights near a window to create an eye-catching indoor garden.
• The rope material adds incredible texture that contrasts nicely with the smooth, hard surfaces of a typical apartment.
• Dip-dye the ends of the cotton rope using fabric dye for a modern, colorful touch.

Pro Tip: Use cotton rope for a clean boho look.

25. Hang String Lights Indoors

Channeling cozy cafe vibes or a warm, intimate atmosphere is easy when you hang string lights indoors. They provide soft, ambient lighting that is far more inviting than harsh overhead apartment lighting. Drape them around windows, along the ceiling line, or over a canopy bed to instantly make your rental feel magical and personalized.

• Use small, clear command hooks or removable mounting putty for easy hanging and guaranteed removal.
• Drape them around windows or along the ceiling line in the living room or bedroom.
• Warm white, soft glow lights create the coziest atmosphere and make the space feel inviting.
• Use string lights with decorative bulbs (like small globes) for extra visual flair.

Pro Tip: Battery-operated options mean no visible cords.

26. Temporary Contact Paper Countertops

If your rental has ugly, dated, or stained countertops, you can give them a dramatic temporary facelift using adhesive contact paper. This budget-friendly material can mimic expensive finishes like faux marble, granite, or wood grain, completely transforming your kitchen or bathroom for a fraction of the cost. It’s an excellent hack for tired bathroom vanities or kitchen islands.

• Clean the existing counter thoroughly with rubbing alcohol before application to ensure the best stick.
• Take your time smoothing out the paper with a straight edge to avoid frustrating air bubbles and wrinkles.
• Use the grid lines on the back of the paper to ensure you cut straight edges for a seamless look.
• Look for thicker, more durable contact paper, often labeled as vinyl film, for a higher-end look.

Pro Tip: Add a sealant layer on top for extra durability.

27. Arrange Furniture Creatively

The simplest and cheapest decorating hack is entirely free: simply rearranging your existing furniture! Changing the layout can dramatically shift the energy and flow of a room, making a familiar space feel entirely new and maximizing natural light. Take everything out, reassess the room’s function, and place pieces in a way that encourages conversation and intentional movement, completely transforming the space without spending a dime.

• Try dividing a large, square living room into two distinct zones: one for lounging and one for reading or dining.
• Float your sofa in the middle of the room instead of pushing it against the wall to create a dynamic anchor point.
• Rotate art and accessories from different rooms (e.g., swapping lamps or rugs) to give each space a fresh feel.
• Use a floor plan app or sketch to test layouts before doing the heavy lifting.

Pro Tip: Pull furniture away from the wall for a more intentional and open look.

28. Wall Decals and Stickers

When paint and wallpaper are out of the question, wall decals and stickers are a cheap and mobile alternative to add color, pattern, or the illusion of a mural. They come in countless designs, from simple geometric shapes to botanical motifs, and are peel-and-stick, usually removing cleanly without leaving residue. They are a fantastic way to commit to a style temporarily.

• Geometric shapes or simple modern dots are very popular and are easy to apply in straight lines.
• They are peel-and-stick and usually remove cleanly, making them perfectly renter-friendly.
• Use them to create a faux headboard design in the bedroom above your bed.
• Place them in a clustered, random fashion rather than a uniform grid for an organic, artistic look.

Pro Tip: Perfect for kids’ rooms or temporary themed decor.

29. Frame Fabric or Wallpaper Scraps

If you have remnants of beautiful fabric or expensive wallpaper leftover from another project, don’t let them go to waste! Turning these scraps into framed art is an inexpensive, elegant way to create custom pieces that perfectly match your room’s theme or color palette. It’s a smart way to use up every bit of costly material.

• Cut the scraps to fit into standard-sized frames (5×7, 8×10) found cheaply at thrift stores or craft shops.
• Use complementary patterns or the same color palette in a series of three frames to create a cohesive triptych.
• Matting the fabric or wallpaper with inexpensive cardstock elevates the presentation significantly.
• Stretch the fabric over a canvas board and staple the back for a frameless, textural art piece.

Pro Tip: Use thrifted frames in different shapes for an eclectic wall.

30. Decorate with Books and Magazines

Books and magazines are more than just reading material; they are excellent, inexpensive decorative objects that instantly give a room a lived-in, thoughtful, and personal feel. Stack your favorite hardcover books on coffee tables, side tables, or shelves to add height, color, and texture to your surfaces. They are a reflection of your personality and add intellectual warmth.

• Organize books by color on a shelf to create a trendy, curated rainbow or ombré look.
• Use a few decorative objects (like a small plant, a candle, or a coaster) on top of book stacks to anchor them.
• Display beautiful coffee table book or magazine covers on a stand or small easel.
• Use books to lift up small lamps or decorative items to give them extra prominence.

Pro Tip: Flip book jackets inside out for a minimalist look.

We hope these ideas prove that creating a chic home doesn’t require a trust fund!

Which of these apartment decorating on a budget tips are you tackling first, and what room are you starting in? Let us know in the comments below!

Don’t forget to share this post with a fellow renter and pin it on Pinterest for future inspiration!