How to upgrade your decor without going over $250

Updating your home doesn’t have to drain your bank account. With a budget of $250 or less, you can make changes that feel significant and elevate your space without overspending.

The trick is knowing where your money makes the biggest impact—swaps and additions that instantly refresh a room, rather than small purchases that don’t move the needle. These upgrades are practical, affordable, and will help your house feel more pulled together right away.

Swap Out Light Fixtures

Lighting is one of the easiest ways to give your home a more polished look. Replacing outdated fixtures with something modern or stylish can completely change a room’s atmosphere. Even big-box stores carry affordable options under $100 that look far more expensive than they are.

Invest in Full-Length Curtains

Curtains hung high and wide make ceilings look taller and rooms feel bigger. Skip the short panels and invest in full-length ones that frame your windows properly. You can often find quality sets under $60 that instantly make a room feel more custom.

Update Cabinet Hardware

Old or mismatched hardware can make a kitchen or bathroom feel tired. Swapping knobs and pulls for a matching set in a modern finish like matte black or brushed brass gives cabinetry a fresh, intentional look. The best part—it usually costs under $75 for a full room’s worth.

Add Oversized Wall Art

Large-scale artwork has a designer feel, but it doesn’t have to carry a designer price. Printables, poster prints, or even DIY canvases can create a big impact for under $50. Hanging one oversized piece instead of several small ones makes the space feel cleaner and more elevated.

Use Statement Rugs

A new rug anchors the entire room and can bring together mismatched furniture. Look for clearance options or smaller rugs that layer well over larger neutral ones. You can often upgrade your living room or bedroom floor for $100 or less and see a huge difference.

Upgrade Your Bedding

Fresh bedding instantly makes a bedroom feel more pulled together. Swapping out tired sheets and a duvet for crisp white or linen-look sets can give you that boutique hotel feel. For under $100, your entire bed can look refreshed and styled.

Style With Mirrors

Mirrors brighten a room and make it feel more spacious. A large round mirror in an entryway or a leaning floor mirror in a bedroom can completely shift the feel of the space. Many affordable options are available for under $75, and they double as decor and function.

Add Accent Lighting

Table lamps, floor lamps, or even LED strips under cabinets can give your home designer-level warmth. Layered lighting makes a room feel styled rather than flat. You can easily add two or three accent lights for under $100 and immediately notice the difference.

Replace Throw Pillows and Blankets

Textiles are one of the cheapest upgrades with the biggest payoff. Swapping out faded or worn pillows and adding fresh covers gives your sofa or bed new life. For under $50, you can refresh an entire seating area with updated colors and textures.

Focus on Entryway Details

Your entry sets the tone for the entire house. A small console, a mirror, and a storage basket for shoes or keys can make it both practical and stylish. With $150 or less, you can turn a cluttered entry into a welcoming, designed space that feels intentional.

*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.