When it comes time to buy a new mattress, one of the first questions on most shoppers’ minds is “how much does a mattress cost?” While prices can vary widely, this guide will break down the typical costs for different categories of mattresses. We’ll look at the price ranges for budget, mid-range, and luxury mattresses, along with the key factors that influence pricing.
Budget Mattresses ($250-$1,000)
On the lower end of the scale are budget mattresses typically priced between $250 and $1,000. These economy mattresses use cheaper materials like polyurethane foam and low-quality Bonnell or offset coils in their construction. As a result, budget mattresses tend to be less durable, only lasting around 5-10 years with regular use before needing to be replaced.
Within the budget tier, twin and full size mattresses usually cost between $250-$600, while a basic queen size usually runs $400-$800. Here’s a breakdown of typical pricing:
- Twin size: $250-$400
- Full size: $300-$600
- Queen size: $400-$800
- King size: $500-$1,000
The cheapest budget mattresses under $300 often come from big box stores and use the lowest grade materials. Most shoppers should plan to spend at least $400 or more for a quality full/queen budget mattress made by reputable brands like Zinus, Lucid, and Linenspa.
While budget mattresses save money upfront, they tend to wear out faster and need replacing more often. So weigh the immediate cost savings against potentially buying multiple mattresses over the course of 10-15 years when considering budget options.
Mid-Range Mattresses ($500-$1,500)
A step above budget options, mid-range mattresses typically cost between $500-$1,500. At this level, expect higher quality materials like memory foam, latex foam, and better innerspring coils in the construction. The improved materials increase durability, with mid-range mattresses usually lasting 10-15 years before a replacement is needed.
Twin XL sizes of mid-range mattresses run $500-$800, while a queen size averages $800-$1,500 depending on materials, brands, and features. Expect to pay:
- Twin XL size: $500-$800
- Full size: $600-$1,200
- Queen size: $800-$1,500
- King size: $1,000-$2,000
Many mattress-in-a-box companies like Nectar, Tuft & Needle, and DreamCloud fall within the mid-range tier, using memory foam and polyfoam layers. Mid-range in-store mattress brands include Simmons Beautyrest, Serta iComfort, and Tempurpedic’s more affordable options.
At the mid-range level, shoppers get the “sweet spot” of better materials, comfort, and durability compared to budget mattresses, but without paying ultra premium prices. Expect a mid-range mattress to last at least 10 years with proper care.
Luxury Mattresses ($1,200-$4,000+)
On the top tier of pricing are luxury mattresses ranging from $1,200 on the low end up to $4,000+. These high-end mattresses use premium materials like natural latex, pocketed coils, cashmere wool, and other quality fabrics. Thanks to their first-rate construction, luxury mattresses can last over 15-20 years in most cases.
King size luxury mattresses usually start around $1,800+, while a high-end queen size averages $2,000+. In general, luxury tier pricing includes:
- Twin XL size: $1,200-$2,000
- Full size: $1,500-$3,000
- Queen size: $2,000-$4,000+
- King size: $2,500-$5,000+
Well-established brands with luxury lines include Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Breeze, Stearns & Foster Estate, and Kingsdown Vintage. Smaller manufacturers like Saatva, Helix, and Avocado also have premium organic mattress options.
Keep in mind luxury doesn’t always mean better. Make sure to try out high-end mattresses first, as the ultra plush feeling doesn’t work for some sleepers. But if budget isn’t a concern and you want the highest quality materials and longest lifespan, luxury mattresses are the way to go.
What Impacts Mattress Pricing?
Clearly there’s a wide range in mattress costs. While the tier level and size are key pricing factors, several other elements also impact the retail price.
Materials & Construction Quality
The materials used and overall construction quality play a major role in mattress price. More expensive materials like latex foam, memory foam, pocketed coils, and organic fabrics all increase costs. Handcrafting and more complex layering/components also raise prices.
Mattress Size
It takes more materials and effort to make a larger mattress, so prices go up substantially with size. While a twin size may cost $600, a king size with the same materials/construction can run $2,500. Generally, each larger size increment costs an additional $200+ for a given model.
Brand Name & Reseller Markups
Well-advertised brands charge higher prices driven by celebrity endorsements, marketing budgets, and retailer partnerships. Stores also tack on extra for showroom overhead, sales commissions, and profit. Lesser known direct-to-consumer brands tend to cost much less.
Special Features
Additional features like zoned ergonomic support, cooling gels, adjustable firmness, smart sensors, and more also raise manufacturing expenses, reflected in retail pricing.
Policies & Programs
Many brands offer perks like free shipping, 120+ night trials, 10-20 year warranties, and free returns to ease concerns over big mattress purchases. But those policies ultimately get baked into the price.
Final Recommendations on Budgeting
Given all the variables, it’s hard to pinpoint one universal average. But expect to spend $500-$2,000 for a good quality queen size mattress that lasts over 7 years. Go lower in price for budget foam or innerspring mattresses, or higher for larger sizes and luxury materials. Carefully compare types, policies, and prices when shopping for the best value.
Let me know if you have any other mattress pricing questions!
