Why Is Outdoor Furniture So Expensive?

While outdoor furniture has always been expensive, it is even more so today. If you have recently been in the market for outdoor furniture, you have likely experienced sticker shock.

Have you wondered why outdoor furniture is now competing with its indoor counterparts to see which one will cost more?

There are a few reasons outdoor furniture costs have begun to skyrocket. We are here to discuss some of these reasons to give you insight.

With our research, we have discovered some shocking information that is likely to intrigue you.

wicker patio table and chairs set

Increased Demand and Scarcity

The last few years have been tough on the world. People are now spending more time at home, prompting them to spend more money and time making their homes comfortable and stylish.

Any time there is increased demand, manufacturers begin to raise prices. In addition to increased demand, we are also seeing intermittent supply chain concerns.

When manufacturers cannot get the materials they need, or the cost of materials rises, so will the prices of outdoor furniture and other goods.

handwritting a supply and demand graph

Expensive Materials

Even in the best of times, outdoor furniture has never been inexpensive. One of the reasons patio furniture is so expensive is because of the materials.

The materials used in manufacturing patio furniture must be able to withstand the elements. Outdoor furniture is exposed to the harsh rays of the sun, snow, rain, and wind. At times, the elements can be unforgiving.

Some of the materials used in making outdoor furniture are aluminum, glass, plastic, and stainless steel. Metal and glass components do not come cheap, but they help outdoor furniture last longer.

Most people prefer patio furniture that is made from high-end materials instead of cheap.

For instance, plastic outdoor furniture has always been fairly affordable. Unfortunately, increases in the cost of resins have led to manufacturers marking up their plastic outdoor furniture by as much as thirteen percent.

metal black patio table and chairs

Shipping Costs Are a Factor

One thing many people do not factor into the rising cost of outdoor furniture is the price of shipping. Outdoor furniture is large, bulky, and heavy.

These attributes lead to increased shipping costs when purchasing furniture from online retailers.

According to some of the biggest shipping couriers, shipping locally can cost up to $250. If you need to ship an outdoor furniture order across the country, you could find the costs rise exponentially.

To save money on their outdoor furniture purchases, many people are making the smart move to buy pieces that require assembly. Unless you know how to put the pieces together properly, you are going to incur the cost of paying someone for assembly.

large container shipping boat

Markups for Retailer Profits

No one likes to talk about it in the retail world, but stores have to make profits. While the store you purchase outdoor furniture from has a right to make a profit, be careful. Some stores mark up their furniture between 200% to 400%.

The high percentage of markups in the outdoor furniture market allows retailers to pay their salespeople commissions. Retailers also mark up their furniture to pay for overhead costs.

If you want to be a savvy shopper, ask the salesperson about the manufacturer’s advertised price. Asking for this information will allow you to see how much markup the retailer is using.

Although it can be disheartening to find out a retailer is marking up their prices exorbitantly, the markups can actually be a good thing for consumers. High markups mean there is plenty of room for you to haggle, and you should.

One person is answering question about markup price.

Cushions Increase the Costs

You can tell patio furniture is of high quality if you examine the cushions. Being able to duplicate the look and feel of indoor furniture while retaining the weather-resistant material causes manufacturers to increase their costs.

How Can You Decrease Your Outdoor Furniture Costs?

Although outdoor furniture prices seem to only be headed upwards, there are ways you can save money on your purchases. Consider the following.

Purchase Used Outdoor Furniture

While shopping for used outdoor furniture can be annoying, used does not necessarily mean poor quality. Some people decide to get rid of their outdoor furniture because they are moving or simply want a change.

Do not be afraid to check out social media platforms or even your local yard sales for used outdoor furniture. Make sure to inspect the pieces from top to bottom and research to discover the suggested retail price before you buy.

Build Your Own

If you have a few tools, the materials, and a little skill, you can build your own simple outdoor furniture. You can even save money by rehabbing discarded outdoor furniture. Sewing new cushions can bring life to an old existing furniture frame and make the furniture look new.

man woodworking in a shop

Choose Fewer Furniture Pieces

While it may be tempting to select an entire outdoor furniture living suite, do you really need all those pieces? Try scaling down your outdoor furniture to a few basic pieces.

With time and more money, you can slowly add furniture pieces until you have the look you desire.

Shop Around for Outdoor Furniture

One of the biggest mistakes you can make as a consumer is to purchase from the first retailer you come across. You must shop around if you want to save money on any purchase, including furniture.

Compare prices and take advantage of sales. The more research you carry out, the better equipped you will be to find the best price.

woman shopping for patio furniture

Can We Expect Outdoor Furniture Prices to Ever Decrease?

Although none of us has a crystal ball to see into the future, economists are warning prices will only continue to rise. Even outside of supply chain concerns and demand, outdoor furniture is expensive.

Do not fear if you cannot afford that beautiful outdoor furniture suite. There are ways you can save money on your costs. Do not be afraid to haggle with the sales associates or use the tips above to get the best price.