The price for single bar stools start as low as $50 and go all the way up to $500. However, most individual bar stools usually average around $100 – $200 per stool. Read our breakdown of key factors that affect bar stool price and learn just how much does a bar stool cost?

In this guide:
Factors That Contribute To Bar Stool Price
Frequently Asked Questions

Factors That Contribute to Bar Stool Price

Frame Materials

The frame is the structural foundation of the bar stool which makes it obvious that you’d want it to be made from a high quality material. These frames can be made from materials – in order of most expensive to least – like wood (~350), metal (~$250), wicker (~$200), or acrylic (~$150). While wood is the most durable of these materials, metal is actually the most popular choice. Keep in mind that most of the cost of a bar stool comes from the frame, so you don’t want to skimp out.

Wood Durability & Species

Specifically dealing with wood bar stools, it's important to compare the types of wood in their structure and species. Solid wood bar stools will undeniably be more expensive than engineered wood, but you also pay for the quality and peace of mind of knowing it won’t fall apart. When it comes to wood type, opt for notoriously durable species such as redwood or walnut which averages around $300 for a set of two. For a more budget friendly option, beech offers a lot of variety in stain while being less expensive averaging less and $100 for one.

Seat Materials

The other half of the stool, like the material of the frame, the seat material is equally important. Having a seat that is just as sturdy as the frame is another factor that goes into the cost of a bar stool. Consider the above factors of the frame and apply them to the seats, but also consider additional factors such as upholstery, leather, and velvet. Depending on the quality of the seat covering, you can have a wide price range. Genuine leather obviously costs more than faux in a comparison of $450 for one stool versus a similar style in a set of two for $150. Also, patterned polyester upholstery will likely be less expensive at $80 for a single stool than a jewel-toned crushed velvet at $400 for two.

Number in Set

The most cost effective option to buy bar stools are to purchase in sets, most specifically, sets of two, three, or four. Most sets of two average around $200, sets of three at $300, and lastly sets of four being the most expensive at $350. These bundles usually end up being less expensive than purchasing each bar stool individually. The best time to purchase in sets is when you are trying to fill a bar or island.

Tip!

To learn more about how many bar stools you need, plus how to measure for them, check out our guide, Bar Stool Dimensions: How to Choose the Right Ones.

Other Bar Stool Features

There are several other features that could contribute to bar stool price. These things mostly deal with the structure of the stool and the complexity it would take to build it. For example, adding arms to the bar stool would cost more because it requires more materials making a stool with arms average around $200 versus one without. Or having moving parts on the bar stool like adjustable heights or a swivel seat doubling the price from $150 for two to $300.