8 Ways to Decorate Your Apartment on a Budget


Decorating your apartment can be an exciting but overwhelming task, especially when you’re working with a tight budget. Luckily, we have good news; you don’t need to spend a fortune to make your space look stylish and feel cozy. 

Here are eight ways to decorate your apartment on a budget so you can have an inviting space that matches your taste.

Bring in color with peel-and-stick wallpaper.

Apartment with bright blue peel-and-stick wallpaper

Peel-and-stick wallpaper is a game-changer for renters and those on a budget. It’s easy to apply and removable. Plus, it comes in a variety of patterns, colors, and prices—so there’s always an option to match what you need. 

You can use peel-and-stick wallpaper to create an accent wall in your living room or bedroom, or even use it to add a pop of color inside bookshelves or cabinets. This simple addition can transform your space without committing to permanent changes.

Don’t be afraid to DIY.

Picture frame, paintbrushes, and palette

Get creative and embrace the DIY spirit! You can customize furniture, create your own art, or even sew your own pillow covers. Websites like Pinterest and YouTube offer countless tutorials to guide you through various projects. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also end up with unique pieces that reflect your personal style.

Hang up art.

Gallery wall in modern apartment

Hanging up art is one of the easiest ways to decorate your apartment on a budget. Contrary to popular belief, wall art doesn’t have to be expensive. You can pull art from what you already own—old or current photos, past artwork made by you or your loved ones, past letters or certificates, etc.—or find cheap alternatives at a thrift store.

Likewise, framing your pieces doesn’t need to break the bank. You can find cheap and unique frames at thrift stores or even the dollar store.

Find creative ways to use vertical space.

Living room with floating shelves

Maximize your apartment’s potential by utilizing your vertical space. Install floating shelves to display books, plants, and other decorative items. Use hooks to hang pots and pans in the kitchen or to organize accessories in your bedroom. Vertical storage solutions are not only a cost-effective way to save floor space—they also add visual interest to your apartment.

Wait for sales.

30% discount sign

Patience pays off when it comes to decorating on a budget. If you have a specific item in mind, it may be worth it to wait until it goes on sale. Keep an eye out for deals, clearance events, and discount codes. Sign up for newsletters from your favorite home decor stores to stay informed about upcoming promotions. Shopping during holiday sales or end-of-season clearances can also help you score great deals.

That being said, just because something is on sale doesn’t mean it’s worth it. Don’t buy random things simply because you can save a few bucks. Be sure that what you’re purchasing matches the theme and feel you’re trying to go for.

Incorporate pieces of interest.

Apartment with interesting pieces

Incorporating statement pieces can elevate the overall look of your apartment without costing you a fortune. Look for items that catch the eye, like a bold rug, a unique lamp, or a vintage piece of furniture. By focusing the attention on one nice piece, you avoid needing to fill the room with expensive items in order to create interest.

Plus, these pieces don’t have to be expensive; you can often find hidden gems at thrift stores, garage sales, or online marketplaces. You may even already have something!

Keep things functional.

Colorful accent shelves

Functionality can still be fashionable. When decorating on a budget, it’s essential to balance aesthetics with functionality. Invest in furniture that serves multiple purposes, like a sofa bed or a coffee table with storage. This approach ensures you’re making the most of your space without overcrowding it. 

You can also turn your functional pieces into interesting points. Paint a shelf in an interesting accent color. Use colorful or patterned dish towels. This way, you’re spending money on items that are both helpful and visually appealing.

Sell or donate things you don’t need or want.

Woman packing up items to donate

Before you start decorating, take inventory of what you already have. Sell or donate items you no longer need or want. This decluttering process not only frees up space but also provides you with extra cash to invest in decor that you love. Use platforms like eBay, Poshmark, or local Facebook groups to sell your unwanted items.

Creating an inviting space doesn’t have to break the bank. There are plenty of ways to decorate your apartment on a budget while still creating the look and feel you want!

Find a community that’s right for your lifestyle and budget.

Discover a home where you can thrive, connect, and belong.

At Churchwoods, we understand that finding the right place to live is about more than just the basic amenities. That’s why we’re committed to redefining apartment living by not just offering a place to stay, but a place where you feel truly valued and connected.

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At Churchwoods, we recognize that a great place to live encompasses more than the physical space.

We're dedicated to transforming apartment living from just a place to stay into a community where you'll build great connections, feel secure with top-notch safety, and enjoy all the great perks that make you, your family, and your pets feel right at home.

We know you want more out of your apartment community and believe you deserve more than just a place to stay—you deserve a home.

So, what are you waiting for? Schedule a tour to find out what coming home can really feel like!

Qualifications for Approved Applications

All adults (18+) who will be residing in the apartment are required to fill out an application. Each applicant must have:

  • A credit score of 650+
  • No evictions and/or have all past evictions paid off
  • No utilities owed in credit/collection history
  • A criminal history that shows no felony or charge of a violent crime of any nature within the last six years
  • No inclusion in the sex offender registry
  • A gross income that is three times the rental amount
    (income must be based on the current employer of six or more months with no gaps in employment)
  • Renters insurance
    (if applicable, pets must be covered)
  • A limit of two pets
    (additional nonrefundable fees required — $200 for first pet, $100 for second pet, and $25/month per pet)
  • Payment for a nonrefundable application fee
    ($50 per adult)
  • Any additional qualifications requested by the property owners

* Deposits are only accepted after applications have been approved. Once used to secure a unit, deposits are non-refundable.

* Deposits are not used towards rent during tenancy.