Understanding Airbnb Design Cost Per Room: A Comprehensive Guide
- Bee Setups

- Nov 26
- 18 min read
Thinking about setting up an Airbnb? It's a great way to make some extra cash, but figuring out the costs can be a headache. You've got furniture, decor, maybe even some handyman stuff to think about. This guide breaks down what you can expect to spend on your Airbnb design cost per room, so you can plan your budget without any surprises. We'll look at everything from the big furniture pieces to the little things that make guests happy.
Key Takeaways
The total airbnb design cost per room can vary a lot based on what you need. Things like furniture quality, the size of the room, and if you add special touches all play a part.
Furnishing packages can simplify the process and sometimes save money, but it's good to compare what's included and the overall price.
When budgeting, think about all the expenses: furniture, decor, bedding, kitchen items, and even things like art and plants.
Turnkey solutions handle the whole setup from design to delivery, which can save you a lot of time and hassle, though they come with a setup fee.
Smart design choices can lead to more bookings and higher nightly rates, ultimately boosting your return on investment.
Understanding Airbnb Design Cost Per Room
The cost to design and furnish an Airbnb room can vary significantly, typically ranging from $12,000 to $38,000+ for a full setup, depending on the number of bedrooms and the level of furnishing. Factors like location, property type, and desired aesthetic all play a role. For instance, a studio apartment might cost between $12K–$15K, while a 5-bedroom home could range from $30K–$38K+. "The total cost for a full setup typically ranges from $12K–$15K+ for a 1-bedroom, $15K–$20K+ for a 2-bedroom, and so on, up to $30K–$38K+ for a 5-bedroom," according to Rabbu. This includes everything from furniture and decor to essential amenities, aiming to create a guest-ready space that maximizes booking potential and nightly rates. Understanding these costs is the first step in budgeting for your investment property. For a more detailed breakdown, consider exploring turnkey solutions for Airbnb setup which streamline the entire process.
Factors Influencing Airbnb Design Costs
The price tag for designing and furnishing an Airbnb isn't a one-size-fits-all number. Several key elements contribute to the final cost, making each project unique. Think about it like building a house – the materials, the size, and the location all impact the budget.
Location: Properties in high-demand or high-cost-of-living areas will naturally have higher furnishing and labor costs. What you can spend in a small town might not stretch as far in a major city. According to AirDNA, market demand and average daily rates (ADR) in a specific location heavily influence the potential return on investment, which in turn can affect design budget decisions.
Property Type and Size: A cozy studio apartment will require less furniture and decor than a sprawling 5-bedroom house. The layout and number of rooms directly translate to material and labor costs. For example, a 4-bedroom home might have a budget of $26,000 to $35,000 for a full setup, as seen in various project examples.
Design Aesthetic and Quality: Are you aiming for a minimalist, modern look, or a cozy, rustic vibe? High-end finishes, designer furniture, and custom decor will naturally cost more than more budget-friendly options. The quality of materials also plays a big part; durable items might cost more upfront but save money on replacements in the long run. VRMA notes that creating a unique guest experience through design can lead to better reviews and higher occupancy rates, justifying a potentially higher initial investment.
Scope of Furnishing: Do you need everything from the sofa and beds to the smallest kitchen utensil and towels? Or are you just looking to furnish the main living areas? A complete turnkey setup, which includes everything needed to make the property guest-ready, will be more expensive than a partial furnishing.
The Role of Furnishing Packages in Cost
Furnishing packages can be a game-changer when it comes to managing Airbnb design costs. Instead of sourcing every single item individually, these packages offer curated collections of furniture and decor, often tailored to specific property types or styles. This approach can simplify the process and potentially offer cost savings.
Standardization and Efficiency: Packages often include pre-selected items that work well together, saving you the time and effort of making countless individual decisions. This streamlined approach can reduce the overall project timeline. For instance, Bee Setups offers various packages like 'Essentials' and 'Premium,' each with a defined scope and associated cost, plus the cost of furniture.
Predictable Budgeting: With a package, you get a clearer picture of the costs involved upfront. While the furniture cost is separate, the package fee itself is fixed, making budgeting more straightforward. Rabbu mentions typical full setup ranges based on the number of bedrooms, giving a good ballpark figure for different property sizes.
Quality and Durability: Reputable providers of furnishing packages often source durable, high-quality items suitable for rental properties. This focus on longevity can lead to lower replacement costs over time, contributing to a better return on investment. As VRMA suggests, investing in quality can lead to better guest experiences and reviews.
Estimating Your Airbnb Design Budget
Figuring out how much to spend on your Airbnb design is a balancing act. You want a space that attracts guests and commands a good nightly rate, but you also need to keep an eye on your investment. A good starting point is to look at what similar properties in your area are charging and what they offer in terms of furnishings.
Research Comparables: Look at successful Airbnb listings in your market. What kind of furniture do they have? What's the overall style? This will give you a sense of what guests expect and what's considered standard or even premium in your area. Tools like AirDNA can provide insights into market trends and competitor pricing.
Consider Turnkey Solutions: Companies like Bee Setups offer comprehensive packages that handle design, sourcing, and installation. These "turnkey" solutions can simplify the process and provide a more predictable cost structure. Their pricing often includes a setup fee plus the cost of furniture, with options ranging from 'Standard' to 'Luxury' setups.
Factor in the 'Cost of Furniture': While package fees are one part of the equation, the actual furniture and decor can be a significant portion of the total cost. Rabbu provides estimated total setup costs for different bedroom counts, such as $12K–$15K+ for a 1-bedroom and $25K–$30K+ for a 4-bedroom. This highlights that the furniture itself is a major expense.
It's important to remember that the initial investment in design and furnishing directly impacts your property's appeal, booking rates, and ultimately, your profitability. A well-designed space can justify a higher nightly rate and attract more guests, leading to a quicker return on investment.
For those looking to get started quickly and efficiently, exploring full-service design and furnishing options can be a smart move. These services often come with financing options, making the initial outlay more manageable. You can also learn more about financing for property setups to spread out the costs.
Breakdown of Airbnb Furnishing Expenses
Furnishing your Airbnb is a big part of the setup cost, and it's where a lot of hosts find themselves spending more than they initially planned. The goal is to strike a balance between creating an attractive space that guests love and managing your budget effectively. Think of it as an investment in your property's earning potential. According to AirDNA, properties with well-thought-out interiors tend to command higher nightly rates and see better occupancy, which directly impacts your return on investment. (https://www.airdna.co/blog/how-to-decorate-your-airbnb-for-maximum-profit)
When you're looking at the numbers, it's not just about buying a sofa and a bed. You've got to consider everything from the big ticket items to the tiny details that make a guest's stay comfortable and memorable. Rabbu points out that the cost can vary wildly depending on the size of the property, the quality of the items you choose, and the overall style you're going for. (https://rabbu.com/blog/how-much-does-it-cost-to-furnish-an-airbnb)
Cost of Furniture and Decor
The furniture and decor are usually the largest chunk of your furnishing budget. This includes everything from the living room sofa and dining table to the bedroom furniture and all the decorative touches like rugs, artwork, and throw pillows. The price can range significantly. For example, a basic, budget-friendly setup for a studio apartment might start around $12,000, while a larger, more luxurious setup for a 4-bedroom home could easily reach $30,000 or more, not including the setup fee. (https://beesetups.com/pricing/)
Here’s a general idea of what you might expect for different property sizes:
Studio/1 Bedroom: $12,000 - $15,000+
2 Bedrooms: $15,000 - $20,000+
3 Bedrooms: $18,000 - $24,000+
4 Bedrooms: $25,000 - $30,000+
5 Bedrooms: $30,000 - $38,000+
These figures are just estimates, of course. The actual cost will depend on the specific items you select, their quality, and where you source them from. Opting for durable, mid-range items can be a smart move for long-term value. You can explore options like Bee Setups' Essentials Package for a good balance of cost and quality.
Essential Items for Guest Comfort
Beyond the main furniture pieces, there's a whole list of smaller items that are absolutely key for guest comfort and a good review score. These are the things that make a place feel like a home, not just a temporary stop. VRMA highlights that providing these amenities can significantly boost guest satisfaction and encourage repeat bookings. (https://www.vrma.org/)
Don't forget to budget for:
Linens and Towels: Good quality sheets, duvet covers, and plenty of fluffy towels are a must.
Kitchenware: Pots, pans, utensils, plates, glasses, and mugs. Think about what a guest would need to make a simple meal.
Small Appliances: A coffee maker, toaster, and microwave are usually expected.
Toiletries: Basic starter kits for the bathroom (shampoo, conditioner, soap).
Cleaning Supplies: For both your own use between guests and sometimes a small starter kit for them.
Decor Accents: Lamps, curtains, rugs, artwork, and plants can really make a space feel welcoming.
These items might seem minor, but they add up quickly. A well-stocked kitchen or a comfortable bed can be the difference between a 3-star and a 5-star review.
Impact of Room Size on Furnishing Costs
It's pretty straightforward: the bigger the space, the more furniture and decor you'll need, and the higher the cost. A spacious living room will require a larger sofa and more seating than a compact one. Similarly, a large bedroom might need a king-size bed, nightstands, and a dresser, whereas a smaller room might only fit a queen bed and a small nightstand.
When planning your budget, it's wise to get specific measurements of each room. This helps in selecting furniture that fits well, avoiding that cramped or overly sparse look. It also prevents costly mistakes like buying a sofa that's too big for the living room or a rug that's too small for the space. A good design plan, like those offered by Bee Setups' design process, takes room dimensions into account from the start.
For instance, furnishing a 1,500 sq ft 3-bedroom house will naturally cost more than furnishing a 600 sq ft studio apartment. This isn't just about the quantity of items but also the scale. Larger rooms often call for larger, more substantial pieces of furniture, which can also come with a higher price tag. If you're looking to furnish a larger property efficiently, consider Bee Setups' Premium Package which is designed for single-family homes and larger apartments. You can also explore financing options to manage these larger upfront costs. Investing in quality pieces that fit the scale of your rooms will pay off in guest satisfaction and durability.
Turnkey Solutions for Airbnb Setup
When you're setting up an Airbnb, especially if you're doing it for the first time or managing multiple properties, the whole process of designing and furnishing can feel overwhelming. That's where turnkey solutions come in. A turnkey Airbnb setup is a service that handles everything from the initial design concept to the final placement of furniture and decor, delivering a property that's ready for guests. Think of it as a complete, done-for-you service that takes the stress out of getting your rental property investment-ready. Companies like Bee Setups specialize in this, aiming to get your property listed and earning income as quickly as possible.
What is a Turnkey Airbnb Setup?
A turnkey Airbnb setup is essentially a comprehensive service package designed to get your property ready for short-term rental guests with minimal involvement from your side. It typically includes:
Design Consultation: Understanding your vision, target guest, and budget.
Space Planning: Creating functional layouts that maximize usability and appeal.
Furniture & Decor Sourcing: Selecting and purchasing all necessary items.
Logistics & Delivery: Managing the ordering, shipping, and delivery of all items.
Installation & Staging: Assembling furniture, arranging decor, and styling the space.
According to AirDNA, a well-designed and fully furnished property can significantly impact booking rates and average daily rates (ADR). A turnkey service aims to achieve this optimized state efficiently. For example, Bee Setups offers different tiers of service, from 'Essentials' for single-family homes to 'Luxury' for high-end properties, all designed to be a one-stop solution.
Benefits of a Full-Service Design and Furnishing
Opting for a full-service, turnkey solution offers several advantages:
Time Savings: What might take an individual host months of planning, sourcing, and coordinating can be completed in weeks by a professional team. This means your property starts generating revenue sooner. As Rabbu notes, "Time is money in the short-term rental business, and turnkey solutions significantly cut down the time to market." https://rabbu.com/
Cost Efficiency: While it might seem like an added expense, professional services often have established relationships with suppliers, potentially securing better pricing on furniture and decor than an individual might. They also help avoid costly mistakes in purchasing or design that could lead to guest dissatisfaction or premature wear and tear. Bee Setups provides transparent pricing structures, often starting with a setup fee plus the cost of furniture, making budgeting clearer.
Expertise & Optimization: These services are not just about filling a space; they're about creating a guest experience that drives bookings and positive reviews. They understand what guests look for, what photographs well for listings, and how to design for durability and ease of maintenance. VRMA highlights the importance of professional staging in attracting guests and justifying higher rates. https://www.vrma.org/
Reduced Stress: Managing deliveries, assembly, and coordinating multiple vendors can be a significant headache. A turnkey provider handles all these moving parts, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your investment or business. Bee Setups manages the entire process, from design to execution, offering a truly hands-off experience for the client.
Comparing Different Setup Packages
Turnkey providers often offer tiered packages to suit different property types, budgets, and desired levels of finish. Bee Setups, for instance, has packages like:
Standard Setup: Typically for studios and 1-bedroom apartments, ideal for corporate or student housing. This usually includes basic furnishing and decor. Learn more about Bee Setups' Standard package
Essentials Setup: Geared towards single-family homes or larger apartments, focusing on interior essentials without extensive amenities or wall treatments. This is a popular choice for many Airbnb hosts looking for a solid foundation. Explore Bee Setups' Essentials package
Premium Setup: For single-family homes or higher-end apartments, this package often includes interior and exterior elements, amenities, and wall treatments, aiming for a more complete and attractive space. See Bee Setups' Premium options
Luxury Setup: Designed for high-end properties, this includes all premium features plus custom amenities and specialized design elements for properties commanding top nightly rates.
When comparing, consider not just the price but also what's included in each tier, the number of design revisions allowed, and the overall scope of work. Some providers might also offer financing options to help manage the upfront costs, making it easier to invest in a high-quality setup. Bee Setups offers financing to help spread out these costs over time.
The goal of a turnkey solution is to transform an empty space into a revenue-generating asset with maximum efficiency and minimal owner involvement. It's about leveraging professional expertise to create a property that not only looks good but performs well in the competitive short-term rental market.
If you're looking to get your Airbnb investment off the ground quickly and professionally, exploring turnkey solutions is a smart move. Bee Setups offers a streamlined process designed to get your property guest-ready efficiently. Contact Bee Setups today to discuss your project and get a quote.
Maximizing ROI Through Strategic Design
Maximizing your Airbnb's return on investment (ROI) through strategic design means creating a space that not only looks good but also performs well financially. This involves making smart choices about layout, furnishings, and amenities that attract more bookings, allow for higher nightly rates, and lead to better guest reviews. It's about turning your property into a desirable destination that guests want to book and rave about.
When you're looking to get the most out of your Airbnb, design isn't just about making things look pretty. It's a powerful tool that can directly impact how much money you make. Think of it as an investment in your property's performance. By focusing on design elements that appeal to guests and align with market trends, you can significantly boost your bookings and average daily rate (ADR).
Data-Driven Design for Higher Bookings
Using data to inform your design choices is a smart move. Services like AirDNA can provide insights into what guests in your area are looking for, what amenities are popular, and what design styles are performing well. This information helps you avoid guesswork and create a space that's already proven to be attractive. For instance, knowing that guests in your market prefer a certain color palette or a dedicated workspace can lead to design decisions that directly translate into more bookings. A well-designed space, informed by market data, is more likely to catch a potential guest's eye and secure a reservation.
Analyze local market trends: What are successful listings in your area doing?
Identify popular amenities: Are guests looking for a coffee bar, a smart TV, or outdoor seating?
Understand guest demographics: Who are you trying to attract? Families, business travelers, or couples?
Optimizing for Average Daily Rate (ADR)
Your design choices have a direct impact on the nightly rate you can charge. A property that looks and feels high-quality, well-maintained, and thoughtfully decorated can command a higher ADR. This doesn't necessarily mean spending a fortune; it's about making strategic selections. For example, investing in comfortable, stylish furniture and high-quality linens can make a big difference in perceived value. A cohesive design theme that flows throughout the property also contributes to a more premium feel. According to Rabbu, properties with professional staging and design can see a significant increase in their nightly rates, making the initial investment worthwhile.
A well-designed Airbnb isn't just a place to stay; it's an experience. This experience is what guests are willing to pay more for, directly impacting your ADR and overall profitability.
Creating Guest Experiences That Drive Reviews
Positive reviews are gold for any Airbnb host. They build trust, attract more bookings, and can even help you rank higher on search results. Strategic design plays a huge role in creating memorable guest experiences. Think about the little touches: comfortable beds, good lighting, functional spaces, and aesthetically pleasing decor. These elements contribute to a guest's overall satisfaction. When guests have a great stay, they're more likely to leave a glowing review, which in turn attracts more guests. VRMA highlights that properties with exceptional design and amenities tend to receive better reviews, leading to increased occupancy and revenue.
Bee Setups specializes in creating these guest-centric environments. Their turnkey solutions take the guesswork out of design, ensuring your property is not only visually appealing but also optimized for guest comfort and satisfaction. By partnering with Bee Setups, you can achieve a higher ROI through thoughtful, data-backed design and efficient execution. They handle everything from sourcing to staging, allowing you to focus on managing your bookings and enjoying the benefits of a professionally designed space. Explore their package options to see how they can transform your Airbnb.
Financing and Payment Options for Airbnb Design
Setting up an Airbnb property involves significant upfront costs, from furniture to decor. Understanding your financing and payment options can make a big difference in managing your budget and cash flow. Many investors explore financing solutions to spread these costs over time, making larger projects more accessible.
When considering the total investment for a full setup, costs can vary widely. For instance, a one-bedroom unit might range from $12,000 to $15,000+, while a larger five-bedroom home could cost $30,000 to $38,000 or more. These figures depend heavily on the property's size, style, layout, and the specific items chosen. According to Rabbu, "Typical full setup ranges: 1 bedroom: $12K–$15K+, 2 bedroom: $15K–$20K+, 3 bedroom: $18K–$24K+, 4 bedroom: $25K–$30K+, 5 bedroom: $30K–$38K+" [https://rabbu.com/pricing].
Understanding Setup Fees and Furniture Costs
The overall cost of an Airbnb setup is generally broken down into two main components: the design and setup fee, and the cost of the furniture and decor itself. Companies like Bee Setups offer different packages, such as their "Essentials Setup" for single-family homes starting at $2,500 plus the cost of furniture, or their "Premium Setup" at $4,500 plus furniture costs. These setup fees cover the design process, sourcing, delivery, and assembly. The furniture and decor costs are then added on top, varying based on the size of the property and the quality of items selected. For example, a 4-bedroom project in Houston with Bee Setups had a budget of $35,000 USD for a premium setup [https://www.beesetups.com/projects].
Exploring Financing for Property Setups
Financing is a popular way for investors to manage the upfront investment required for furnishing an Airbnb. Many providers offer simple application processes that can lead to funding within a few business days. For example, Bee Setups mentions that financing is available for qualified applicants, with funding typically arriving in 1–5 business days [https://www.beesetups.com/financing]. This allows hosts to get their properties ready for guests without needing to pay the full amount upfront. Example monthly payments can be quite manageable; for instance, a 2-bedroom setup in Austin, TX, was financed at $189/month, and a 4-bedroom home in the Smoky Mountains at $357/month [https://www.beesetups.com/financing].
Example Monthly Payments for Furnishing Projects
To give you a clearer picture of how financing can work, here are some examples of monthly payments for different property sizes:
1-Bedroom Apartment: Around $132/month (e.g., Houston, TX)
2-Bedroom Home: Around $189/month (e.g., Austin, TX)
3-Bedroom Home: Around $317/month (e.g., Nashville, TN)
4-Bedroom Home: Around $357/month (e.g., Smoky Mountains, TN)
5-Bedroom Home: Around $486/month (e.g., Joshua Tree, CA)
These figures are illustrative and depend on the total project cost, loan terms, and lender approval. According to AirDNA, understanding your total investment, including setup costs, is key to projecting profitability [https://www.airdna.co/blog/how-much-does-it-cost-to-furnish-an-airbnb].
Investing in your Airbnb property's design and furnishings is a significant step. Exploring financing options can help you achieve your desired setup without straining your immediate finances, allowing you to focus on maximizing your rental income from day one.
Ready to get your property guest-ready without the financial stress? Learn more about our turnkey solutions and flexible payment options at Bee Setups. We can help you create a stunning, revenue-generating space. You can also explore our different setup packages to find the best fit for your property and budget.
The Timeline of an Airbnb Design Project
Getting your Airbnb ready for guests involves several steps, and understanding the timeline helps you plan effectively. Most full Airbnb setup projects, from initial design to final staging, typically take between 3 to 6 weeks. This timeframe can vary based on the property's size, the complexity of the design, and the availability of furnishings. "According to Bee Setups, a full setup can range from 3-6+ weeks, depending on property size, product lead times, and complexity." Bee Setups offers a streamlined process to get your property listed faster, minimizing the time it's off the market. For investors looking to quickly maximize ROI, understanding these phases is key.
Phases of Design and Execution
The process generally breaks down into two main phases:
Phase 1: Design & Payment
Phase 2: Execution
Factors Affecting Setup Speed
Several elements can influence how quickly your Airbnb design project moves from concept to completion:
Property Size and Complexity: Larger homes or properties with unique layouts naturally take longer to design and furnish.
Furnishing Lead Times: The availability and shipping times for specific furniture and decor items play a significant role. Popular items or custom orders might have longer waits. "According to Rabbu, typical full setups can range from $12K–$15K+ for a 1-bedroom unit to $30K–$38K+ for a 5-bedroom home, with final costs varying based on size, style, and selected items.
Client Responsiveness: Quick feedback and approvals during the design phase can significantly speed up the process. Delays in decision-making can push back the entire schedule.
Package Choice: Different service packages might have varying levels of detail and revision rounds, which can impact the overall timeline. For instance, a premium package with more revisions might extend the design phase slightly.
Working with a professional design and furnishing service like Bee Setups can dramatically cut down the time it takes to get your property market-ready compared to managing the process yourself. They handle the coordination, sourcing, and installation, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your investment.
If you're looking to get your property listed and generating income as quickly as possible, consider a turnkey Airbnb setup. This approach bundles design, sourcing, and installation into one efficient package, often reducing the typical 2-3 month furnishing timeline to just a few weeks. This speed-to-market is a major advantage for investors aiming to maximize their returns. For more on optimizing your setup, check out our guide on maximizing ROI through strategic design.
Ever wondered how an Airbnb design project comes to life? We've mapped out the whole journey, from the first idea to the final touches. It's a step-by-step process designed to make your rental stand out. Want to see how we can transform your space? Visit our website to learn more about our services and get started today!
Wrapping It Up
So, we've walked through what goes into figuring out the cost of designing an Airbnb room. It's not just about picking out a few things; it's a whole process that considers your budget, the kind of guests you want to attract, and what makes your place stand out. Remember, investing in good design isn't just about looks; it's about making more money and keeping guests happy. Whether you're doing it yourself or working with a pro like Bee Setups, thinking about these details from the start will save you headaches and cash down the road. Getting it right means your property can start earning sooner and perform better.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it typically cost to furnish an Airbnb?
The total cost can vary a lot! For a one-bedroom place, expect to spend around $12,000 to $15,000 or more. Larger homes with more bedrooms will cost more, with a four-bedroom place potentially costing $25,000 to $30,000 or even higher. These prices depend on the size of your home, the style you choose, and the specific items you pick out.
What's included in a 'turnkey' Airbnb setup?
A turnkey setup means everything is handled for you, from start to finish. This includes designing the space, picking out and buying all the furniture and decorations, delivering everything, and setting it all up. You get a place that's completely ready for guests to book and enjoy.
How long does it take to get an Airbnb ready?
Getting a property ready usually takes about 3 to 6 weeks. This timeframe can change depending on how big the place is, how complex the design is, and how quickly the furniture and items can be delivered. Some companies, like Bee Setups, can help speed up this process, getting properties ready to rent out faster.
Can I get help with financing the setup costs?
Yes, absolutely! Many companies offer financing options, which means you can spread the cost of setting up your Airbnb over time with monthly payments. This makes it easier to manage your budget without paying a large amount all at once. You'll usually need to apply and get approved.
How can design help my Airbnb earn more money?
Good design is key to making more money. Attractive spaces get more views and bookings. Well-designed places can also justify charging a higher price per night (ADR). Plus, creating a great guest experience through thoughtful design leads to better reviews, which brings in even more guests.
Do I need to pick out every single item myself?
Not necessarily! With services like Bee Setups, you work with designers who create a plan based on your goals and budget. They handle the selection, purchasing, and setup. You can also ask them to design with a specific theme or your own brand in mind, making the process easier and more personalized.

