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How Much Does a Mattress Cost?

mattress
Written By
Parachute Team
Photographs By
JESSICA SCHRAMM FOR PARACHUTE
@parachutehome
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What you sleep on matters. Quality shut-eye is a crucial component of overall health, and the process of buying a bed, bedding and a mattress shouldn't be taken lightly.

If you're in the market for a new mattress, you might be wondering, How much does a mattress cost? But a better question might be, How much does a good mattress cost?

While the answers to these questions aren't cut-and-dry, price does often correlate with quality. This guide will break down average mattress prices, the factors that determine mattress cost and tips for buying a new one.

Average Mattress Prices

The average mattress costs about $1,200. Mattress costs can range from $100 to upwards of $5,000 though many mid-range models cost between $1,000 and $1,500. Buying a budget mattress often turns out to be more expensive, since cheaper mattresses don’t often hold up as long and can impact your sleep.

How Much Does a Mattress Cost?

Mattress prices vary widely by brand, type, material, size and other factors, and can range from $100 to as high as $10,000. For a high-quality mattress that alleviates pressure, supports proper alignment and leaves you feeling refreshed in the morning, you can expect to pay somewhere in between.

A "good" price range is slightly above the median, falling between $1,500 to $2,800. Think of it as an investment in your health — ideally one that'll last several years.

What Impacts the Price of a Mattress?

The price of mattresses depends on a few things. This includes the type, material, size, thickness, firmness and other factors like whether you use a box spring, shipping and removal of your old mattress. Here's what to know.

Material and Type

One of the primary determinants of mattress cost is the material, which is more or less the same thing as type. The most popular options include innerspring, memory foam, latex, pillow-top and hybrid.

Get details about each type and how much they typically cost below.

Innerspring Mattress Cost

An innerspring mattress consists of a metal wire (spring coil) system supported by a semi-rigid frame and covered in fabric. This style of mattress generally ranges from around $300 to $1,000.

Innerspring mattresses are less common than they used to be, as modern models typically combine springs with foam, wool or another type of cushioning. This is what's called a hybrid mattress, which we'll cover in more detail below.

Memory Foam Mattress Cost

Memory foam mattresses are among the most popular options. You can also find all-foam mattresses that aren't necessarily the memory variety. They range in firmness, density and thickness and may or may not have edge support, which prevents you from sinking down when you sit on the side.

Foam mattresses are relatively affordable, ranging from about $200 to $1,500. Since foam is easily compressed, they're often shipped in boxes a fraction of the full size. When your mattress arrives at your home, it usually takes a day or two to expand.

Latex Mattress Cost

Latex is a little heavier and denser than foam with a buoyant quality. Since it can be extracted from trees, many people view it as a natural, sustainable alternative to memory foam. Latex mattresses fall in the mid-to-high range. They usually cost anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000.

Like foam, latex can conform to your body and provide some pressure-point relief. It's also breathable and naturally antimicrobial, meaning it won't harbor odor-causing bacteria or mildew. Of course, some people have latex allergies, so keep that in mind before buying your next mattress.

Pillow-Top Mattress Cost

A pillow-top mattress features an additional layer of cushioning on top of the foam, latex or innerspring system. This layer is usually between one to three inches thick, gusseted and quilted. Its primary purpose is to provide a pillowy softness and a plush feel.

The cost of pillow-top mattresses varies drastically, as the extra layer can be attached to virtually any other type of mattress. With that said, prices run anywhere from $400 to $3,000 or more.

While it won't eliminate the need to replace a bad mattress, a mattress topper can offer a similar effect to a pillow-top. See our Guide to Mattress Toppers and Mattress Pads for insight.

Hybrid Mattress Cost

Hybrid mattresses, as the name suggests, are a combination of types. They feature multiple materials, typically one or two layers of spring coils, foam or wool padding and support layers, all wrapped in fabric.

For instance, the Eco Mattress from Parachute starts with a wool insulator pad at the base, followed by multi-zoned soft and firm tempered steel coils to promote proper alignment. Another layer of wool padding is followed by a layer of individually wrapped micro-coils, an additional wool comfort layer and quilted organic cotton on top.

A high-quality hybrid mattress will typically cost between $1,500 and $3,000, depending on the size, number of layers and materials used. For lots of folks, hybrids are the best of all worlds and well worth the investment.

What you sleep under and curl up with matters too. Check out our Fabric and Bedding Materials Guide for tips on selecting bed linens.

Size

This probably goes without saying, but larger mattresses are more expensive than smaller ones. The more materials used and the bigger the shipping container, the more you can expect to pay for a mattress.

The most common mattress sizes include twin, full, queen and king, with queen being the top choice among adults. Slightly less common are twin XL (extra-long), short queen, California king (aka Cal king) and split king.

See our Mattress Size and Dimensions Guide for more detailed information about each option.

Thickness and Firmness

Thickness also affects mattress cost. Mattresses usually range from 8 to 14 inches in thickness, though you'll find slightly thinner options and thicker pillow-top models as well. As with larger sizes, the more material used to manufacture a mattress, the more it will cost, so you can expect thicker options to be pricier.

Firmness can impact the price too. Generally speaking, firmer mattresses cost slightly more than softer models. According to research, a medium-firm mattress is your best bet to prevent back and neck pain.

Foundation or Box Spring

A bed foundation or box spring can add to the overall cost as well. Having said that, many modern mattresses don't require a box spring, as with the Eco Comfort Mattress. However, a sturdy foundation or bed frame (something with slats or a platform) is recommended to ensure adequate support and stability.

Not sure what foundation type, material or style to get? See our guide on How to Choose the Best Bed Frame for Your Room.

Shipping and Setup

Some brands and retailers ship mattresses for free, but in many cases, you'll want to factor $100 to $200 for shipping into the cost. White-glove delivery is usually a little extra, but it includes full-service setup. Instead of dropping a box off on your doorstep, this means the mattress will be brought into your room of choice and unboxed for you.

A mattress-in-a-box (sometimes called a bed-in-a-box) arrives in compressed packaging. You can bring the box into the room where you plan to use it, unbox it there, and wait for it to expand to its full size. Just bear in mind the box itself can be incredibly heavy.

Old Mattress Removal

Getting rid of your existing mattress may add to the cost. But if you opt for white-glove delivery service, old mattress removal might be included in the price.

Wondering How to Donate, Recycle and Dispose of Old Mattresses? Read our blog for tips and guidance.

How Much Should You Spend on a Mattress?

The most expensive mattresses don't necessarily provide the best, most restful night's sleep, but you're wise to avoid the cheapest models and invest in something high-quality that will last while delivering a high quality of restful sleep. Mattresses in this range often cost from $2,200 to $2,800.

Tips for Buying a Mattress

There's no one-size-fits-all mattress type or price. But keeping these tips in mind can help you buy the best option for your unique needs and preferences.

Research Mattress Types and Materials

First, take your time researching different mattress types and materials. You can use this guide as a jumping-off point for your search.

Determine Your Budget

Next, determine your mattress budget. Mattress prices vary significantly, so you'll want to have at least a rough idea of what you can afford and how much you're willing to spend.

Know What You'll Get in Each Price Range

It's important to know what you can expect to find in each price range to avoid overspending or buying a lower-quality mattress that's uncomfortable or not long-lasting. Figuring this out should be part of your research.

Shop Around and Compare Prices

It's useful to shop around and compare prices for different mattresses. Find a few models you're interested in to see how they match up in terms of cost, including not just the actual mattress price but also shipping and delivery fees.

Invest in a High-Quality Design

The importance of investing in a high-quality, durable mattress really can't be overstated. While it's certainly possible to overpay, you'll be glad to have a mattress that supports your physical health and ensures a restful night's sleep day after day, year after year.

Note the Trial Period, Return Policy and Warranty

Be sure to review the trial period, return policy and warranty of your mattress before you buy. Many brands offer mattress trials between 30 to 100 days (sometimes longer), meaning you can return yours for free, no questions asked, if you decide you don't like it during that window.

Outside the trial period, you may not be able to return your mattress, but check the fine print to see what the policy says.

Today's mattresses are often ordered online rather than purchased in-person at a mattress store. Many online mattress brands offer trial periods with free returns, but if yours comes compressed in a box, shipping it back might be more complex.

If you'd like to try a mattress before you buy it to avoid the hassle of a return, consider heading to a brick-and-mortar store. Parachute stores have display models you can sit on and feel, but bear in mind the mattresses are made to order, so you'll still need to order one and have it shipped to your home.

For more tips and insight, see our Decision-Making Guide for Buying the Right Mattress.

How Often Should a Mattress Be Replaced?

Now that we've covered how much a mattress costs, let's go over how often to replace one. Generally speaking, high-quality models last about 10 years. They can hold up longer structurally, but that's not the only detail to consider.

Signs a Mattress Needs Replacing

Even the best mattresses will eventually need to be replaced. Here are a few signs yours is on its last leg:

  • Your mattress is uneven or sagging on one side

  • It creaks or squeaks loudly when you move around or get on and off

  • You find it difficult to get comfortable

  • You often wake up sore, stiff or in pain

  • You sleep more soundly on other mattresses

  • Your mattress has a funky odor that lingers, even after airing it out and washing your bedding

  • Your allergies are noticeably worse in the morning or while in bed

Speaking of allergies, placing some greenery throughout your bedroom might help you breathe easy at night. Here are the Top 16 Indoor Plants for Clean Air in Your Home.

Check Out the Eco-Friendly Mattress From Parachute

Now that you're up to speed on average mattress costs and know what to look for when buying one, you're ready to start your search. If you're in the market for a high-quality, medium-firm hybrid model that combines naturally plush, breathable and insulating wool with the pressure relief and support of innersprings, the Eco Mattress is a stellar choice.

Parachute also carries high-quality bed linens woven from earth-sourced materials, like long-staple Turkish cotton and Belgian linen. Browse the bedding collection today!

Read Next:

Bedroom Furniture Essentials

Best Nightstand Decor Ideas and Tips

How to Choose the Right Pillow

External Sources:

1. Shobowale OO, et al.Phytochemical and Antimicrobial Evaluation of Aqueous and Organic Extracts of Calotropis procera Ait Leaf and Latex. Nigerian Food Journal. Vol 31, Issue 1. 2013.

2. Mayo Clinic Staff.Latex allergy. Mayo Clinic. 16 Oct 2020. Web.

3. Caggiari G, et al.What type of mattress should be chosen to avoid back pain and improve sleep quality? Review of the literature. J Orthop Traumatol 22, 51 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1186/s10195-021-00616-5