Flooring comparison
Carpet vs Hardwood Flooring: Cost Comparison
Carpet and hardwood are common choices for living areas and bedrooms. Carpet is cheaper and softer; hardwood costs more but lasts far longer and adds resale value. Here is the 2026 comparison.
Hardwood
$8 to $22 per sq ft installed
Carpet
$3 to $9 per sq ft installed
| Feature | Hardwood | Carpet |
|---|---|---|
| Installed cost per sq ft | $8 to $22 | $3 to $9 |
| Typical 500 sq ft room | $4,000 to $11,000 | $1,500 to $4,500 |
| Lifespan | 50+ years | 5 to 15 years |
| Comfort | Hard underfoot | Soft and warm |
| Allergies | Easy to clean | Traps dust |
| Resale value | High | Low |
Hardwood
- Lasts a lifetime, can be refinished
- Adds the most resale value
- Easy to clean, better for allergies
- Timeless look
- High upfront cost
- Hard and cold underfoot
- Scratches and dents
Carpet
- Low cost
- Soft, warm, and quiet
- Comfortable in bedrooms
- Many colors
- Short lifespan
- Traps dust and stains
- Adds little resale value
The verdict
Choose hardwood in living areas, hallways, and for resale value, where its durability and look pay off. Choose carpet in bedrooms and on a budget, where softness and warmth matter most and the lower cost is welcome.
Frequently asked questions
Is carpet or hardwood cheaper?
Carpet is cheaper, about $3 to $9 per square foot installed versus $8 to $22 for solid hardwood. Hardwood costs more but lasts far longer and adds more resale value.
Does hardwood or carpet add more home value?
Hardwood adds more value and is preferred by most buyers in living areas. Carpet is still popular in bedrooms for comfort, but it adds little to resale value.