When you’re considering refreshing your home, few things have the instant impact of new carpet. The comfort underfoot, the updated look, the fresh start—it’s all in the details. But one central question always stands out: how much does carpet replacement cost? Whether you’re replacing a bedroom carpet, tackling a whole house, or selecting that plush finish for your stairs, Ready Remodel lays out everything you need to plan, budget, and save.
Average Carpet Replacement Cost Overview
The average cost to replace carpet in 2024 ranges between $3 and $11 per square foot, or $30 to $50 per square yard. This estimate typically includes the price of the carpet, padding, labor, removal of the old floor, and disposal. For a standard living room—about 330 square feet—the average carpet replacement cost lands at around $1,800.
Quick cost ranges for popular project sizes:
| Square Footage | Estimated Total Cost |
|---|---|
| 500 | $1,500–$5,500 |
| 800 | $2,400–$8,800 |
| 1,000 | $3,000–$11,000 |
| 1,500 | $4,500–$16,500 |
| 2,000 | $6,000–$22,000 |
Curious about the cost to carpet 800 sq feet? Or wondering, “how much does 1000 square feet of carpet cost?” The table above gives you a fast estimate. But let’s keep digging into the details.
Main Factors Influencing Carpet Replacement Cost
Carpeting costs per square yard, room size, carpet material, and labor all shape the final price. But it doesn’t end there. The shape of your room, the quality of your underlayment, and regional labor rates also make a big difference.
- Carpet material (polyester, wool, nylon, etc.)
- Padding/underlayment quality
- Square footage (and odd shapes or stairs)
- Removal of old carpet and subfloor prep
- Installation complexity
- Stain-resistant treatments or special finishes
I once heard from a homeowner in Austin who spent nearly double what they expected—just because their vintage home’s subfloors needed major repairs. Surprises happen, so factor in a cushion.
Carpet Costs Per Square Foot & Square Yard
Wondering about carpeting costs per square yard versus per foot? Most carpet is sold by the square yard, but estimates are easiest to digest by the square foot, especially for those asking “how much does carpet cost per square yard?”
| Carpet Material | Average Cost per Sq. Foot | Average Cost per Sq. Yard |
|---|---|---|
| Polyester | $1–$3 | $9–$27 |
| Wool | $4–$20 | $36–$180 |
| Nylon | $2–$5 | $18–$45 |
| Olefin/Polypropylene | $1–$3 | $9–$27 |
| Acrylic | $3–$8 | $27–$72 |
| Cotton | $2–$7 | $18–$63 |
| Triexta | $3–$8 | $27–$72 |
For budget-minded shoppers, polyester and olefin are favorites. Those who crave luxury might lean toward wool, but be ready; it has the highest cost per square yard. Don’t forget, the cost to re carpet a house scales with your space size and the selected fiber.
Carpet Styles and Costs: What Affects Price?
The style of your carpet is just as important as the material. Ready Remodel sees a wide range of requests, from hardy Berber for basements to elegant Saxony/plush for cozy bedrooms. Prices run from $1 to $20 per square foot depending on style and fiber blend.
| Style | Cost per Square Foot | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Berber | $3–$20 | High-traffic, resistant to stains |
| Cable | $4–$8 | Living rooms, soft texture |
| Cut-and-loop | $1–$10 | Patterned, family rooms |
| Frieze | $1–$8 | Casual, durable for kids |
| Loop | $1–$5 | Bedrooms, less wear |
| Patterned | $2–$6 | Accent areas |
| Saxony/Plush | $2–$8 | Bedrooms/luxury zones |
| Texture | $1–$12 | Versatile areas |
Chatting with clients, I’ve noticed that Berber is a favorite for playrooms where durability matters, which can offset the higher price with longevity.
Cost to Remove Old Carpet, Prep, and Install
Replacing your carpet always starts with a teardown—or at least a tug! The cost to remove and install carpet combines labor, dump fees, and clean-up. Expect to pay $1 to $5 per square foot for removal, and an extra $1 to $3 per square foot if your job requires lifting stubborn subfloor material.
Before installing new carpet, the subfloor needs to be ready—sometimes this means repairs. Subfloor replacement costs anywhere from $3 to $10 per square foot. On average, small repair jobs hover around $600. All these costs add up to your carpet replacement cost estimate—and help avoid issues later on.
The Hidden Value of Carpet Padding and Underlayment
Don’t overlook padding or underlayment. While optional for some, it dramatically increases comfort and lifespan, typically adding $0.75 to $2 per square foot. Some homeowners are tempted to skip this step to save, but regretting it later is common. Proper padding helps reduce wear and helps protect your warranty.
- Reduces sound transfer between floors
- Adds “give” for a softer feel
- Increases insulation (think cozy in winter!)
- Helps carpets last longer
Custom Cuts, Carpet Tiles, & Stain-Resistant Options
Got an irregular room or want easy swaps? Custom cuts add $1–$2 per square foot, while carpet tiles (which are gaining popularity in home offices) run $1.50–$3.50 per square foot. If you want a hassle-free way to solve stains, stain-resistant chemical treatment rings in at about $80 per 1,000 sq ft, a small price for peace of mind if your carpet sees a lot of life.
How Much Does It Cost to Carpet Stairs?
Stairs add complexity. Expect to pay $1–$2 extra per square foot—or roughly $11–$26 more for each step. This covers the added cutting, securing, and sometimes even hand-tacking required. If you’ve got a winding staircase, budget accordingly, as fitting prices tick upward with the labor intensity.
Labor Costs for Carpet Installation
Labor rates vary by region and installer expertise. Some carpet retailers bundle installation with purchase, but always confirm. On average, labor forms a modest slice of the total bill, except when stairs, repairs, or tricky layouts get involved—then, labor can jump.
- Standard room: often $0.50–$1 per square foot for installation
- Stairs: $11–$26 per step in additional cost
- Subfloor repairs/prep: $3–$10 per square foot
- Complex layouts/custom areas: possibly higher
Get several quotes for carpet installation cost in your area, as prices fluctuate based on supply and local demand.
DIY Carpet Replacement: Is It Worth It?
Some homeowners consider saving with a little elbow grease. But before you try to re-carpet solo, check your warranty; many manufacturers void it after a DIY install. If you’re ready to tackle it anyway, here’s what you’ll need.
| Tool or Supply | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Tack strip cutter | $4–$29 |
| Hand stapler | $30–$50 |
| Wall trimmer | $30–$130 |
| Top cutter | $25–$55 |
| Hammer | $7–$37 |
| Measuring tape | $4–$29 |
| Knee kicker | $32–$165 |
| Carpet knife | $12–$16 |
| Stair tool | $20 |
| Razor knife | $2–$8 |
| Power stretcher | $170–$480 |
| Gloves | $8–$13 |
| Carpet (material only) | $1–$20 per sq. ft. |
| Tack strip | $27 per piece |
| Tape | $5–$10 |
If you’re tackling just a single, small room and you’re handy with specialty tools, a DIY project might cut costs. Just avoid layering over old carpet; as one pro said, “it always feels awkward and wears unevenly.” And remember to factor in debris disposal, not just the install itself.
How to Save Money on Carpet Replacement
Worried your carpet change price is ballooning? There are practical ways to keep costs in check:
- Repair small damaged areas instead of full replacement if your carpet is generally in good condition
- Shop for discounts and seasonal deals—sometimes, installation is free with purchase
- Remove old carpet yourself if you’re up for a physical challenge
- Opt for basic padding and less intricate carpet styles
- Get quotes from multiple local installers for the best price
One Ready Remodel client in Arizona saved nearly 20% on their carpet overhaul by removing the old carpet and painting baseboards themselves before the team arrived.
When Should You Replace vs. Repair Carpet?
Most experts say to plan on replacement every 10 years (some aim for sooner if you have pets or heavy traffic). If you see matting, permanent stains, or fibers that don’t rebound, it’s usually time. But don’t rush—sometimes, a patch or stretch repair, costing between $100–$300, can buy your floors a few more years.
Pro-tip: The average cost to replace carpet in house will always be pricier than select room repairs. Compare all your options before committing—sometimes a mix of patchwork and new carpet makes the best financial sense.
FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About Carpet Replacement Costs
Is it cheaper to install carpet or laminate?
Does new carpet add value to my home?
How long does new carpet last?
Get Your Customized Carpet Replacement Estimate From Ready Remodel
Cost to replace a carpet can feel overwhelming at first, but knowing the factors and averages sets you up for success. Ready Remodel offers personalized quotes and helps you balance style, durability, and budget. Explore your flooring options with us—you might just find updating your space is easier, and more affordable, than you imagined.
Ready to refresh your home? Contact Ready Remodel today for a tailored carpet replacement cost estimate!
