For many, furniture shopping is part of the new-home buying journey. You’ve already designed the foundational pieces of your home, and now it’s time to design the details, whether it’s adding pieces to fill a bigger house or creating a brand-new vibe for a different space.
But if you’re furniture shopping at big-box stores for your new home, higher prices may be coming, as many of their products are made outside of the U.S. What’s more, tariffs may also cause prices on American furniture to jump, potentially leading to a no-win situation.
On August 22, 2025, President Donald Trump launched a 50-day investigation into imported furniture and indicated that tariffs may be imminent on home items made overseas.
“Within the next 50 days, that investigation will be completed, and furniture coming from other countries into the United States will be tariffed at a rate yet to be determined,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform. “This will bring the furniture business back to North Carolina, South Carolina, Michigan, and states all across the union.”
American Furniture Prices Could Also Be Affected
“U.S.-made furniture often relies on imported components, such as wood, metal, textiles, and hardware from countries such as China, Vietnam, and Mexico,” said Kyle Peacock, founder of Peacock Tariff Consulting. “Tariffs on these materials can increase production costs, which manufacturers may pass on to consumers.
“Norix, a U.S.-based manufacturer, reported that tariffs on imported metal and wood were driving up costs for their American-made products. DōMA Home Furnishings noted that tariffs on raw materials from Canada, Mexico, and China were causing price hikes across the board, even for furniture built in the U.S. The National Retail Federation estimated these tariffs could cost U.S. consumers $8.5 to $13.1 billion annually in furniture-related expenses.”
Company vs. Consumer Absorption
Some companies have attempted to absorb tariffs in the short-term on various items. Peacock broke down the numbers but also pointed out that company absorption is unsustainable.
“The numbers are a mix, but here’s a quick breakdown: around 30% of manufacturers and 45% of service firms fully pass tariff costs to consumers. Others absorb part of the cost, sacrificing profit margins to stay competitive.
“Large retailers may absorb tariffs temporarily, but economists warn this isn’t sustainable long-term. Walmart initially absorbed tariff costs but later raised prices on over 4,200 items, including furniture, due to elevated tariffs on Chinese imports. Williams-Sonoma, which owns Pottery Barn and West Elm, saw its blended tariff rate jump from 6% to 34%, prompting selective price increases on new furniture lines.”
Peacock pointed out we can use other industries to demonstrate how companies might handle future tariff costs.
“While not in furniture, AutoZone openly passed tariff costs to consumers, and price hikes ranging from $4,000 to $12,000 on imported vehicles illustrate how widespread this practice is across industries.”
Avoiding Potential Furniture Tariffs
The best way to combat potential furniture tariffs? Take it back to elementary school: Reduce, reuse, recycle.
Start scouting second-hand retailers, such as thrift shops and social media marketplaces. You’ll come across many pieces in great shape as the seller is downsizing their home or seeking a different style. Whatever the reason, you might get away with paying a few hundred dollars for that new couch as opposed to more than a thousand.
If you’re a DIYer, there are a multitude of online videos demonstrating how to strip down and customize second-hand tables and dressers into a unique piece you will love
.Finally, don’t forget to ask family or friends if they have any spare furniture they’re planning to eliminate. You might be able to score something for a song, or better yet, for free.
Bottom Line for New Home Buyers: If tariffs on imported furniture go through, expect higher prices whether you buy overseas-made or U.S.-built pieces, because American manufacturers also rely on imported materials. For buyers of new construction homes, that could mean stretching your budget even further at a time when every dollar already feels tight. To stay ahead, consider second-hand finds, DIY makeovers, or leaning on family and friends for pieces before heading to the showroom floor.
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