A Murphy bed – also known as a wall bed – is a space-saving furniture solution that is ideal for small homes or apartments.
It includes a foldable frame attached to the wall and the entire bed can be effortlessly folded up and stored away when it’s not in use.
This unique design gives homeowners the flexibility to keep their living space uncluttered and maximize their square footage. When in use, Murphy beds provide all the comfort of traditional beds without taking up floor space.
They are usually made from solid wood frames that have been carefully selected for their strength and durability. This ensures the bed will last for years and offer great value for its price.
In the example above, you can see the Kadeja Murphy Bed. The full size is priced at $1,579.99 when on sale (reg. price is $3,663), while the queen size goes for $1,899.99 when on sale (reg. price is $4,052).
This makes it higher than a regular platform bed or even some sleeper sofas.
Why Are Murphy Beds So Expensive?
The average Murphy bed comes at a high price. Many retailers offer Twin beds at prices ranging from $1,000 to $1,500, while Full and Queen sized Murphy beds are priced around $1,500 – $3,500.
This is due to a few different factors. The main reasons include the high cost of materials needed in production and the complex engineering involved in designing the bed frame.
If you opt to have the bed professionally assembled, this can also raise the price by $150-$200. As a result, Murphy beds tend to be more expensive than traditional bed frames.
Here Are Five Reasons Why Murphy Beds Are Expensive:
Here are the some of the main reasons why these types are beds have a high price tag:
1. The Cost of Materials is High
First, you should consider the materials that are used in the construction, with the most expensive material being the wood. Murphy beds which are made using particleboard or medium density fibreboard are relatively inexpensive.
While, Murphy tables constructed from hardwood or solid wood have a higher price. They offer the added benefit of durability, resulting in a bed that will last for decades.
Particleboard, MDF, or veneers are usually used to make the cabinetry or front door panels. Additionally, Wall beds don’t use a box spring, but instead use Euroslat mattress foundation, which also raises the cost.
2. Hydraulic Mechanism
Wall Beds use hydraulic pistons which make pulling down and folding up the bed, easier and effortless. You don’t have to apply much force to pull down or lift up the frame and mattress. The hydraulic pistons are made of steel and can pull and lift heavy loads.
If you were to purchase a Murphy Bed Kit, which includes two hydraulic pistons and other hardware, the price of a full or queen size kit will come out to around $250-$300.
3. The Size of the Bed Will Impact the Price
You buy Wall beds in twin, full, queen and in some cases king size. The bigger the size, the higher the price. On average, a Twin-size Murphy bed will cost around $1,000 to $1,500. A full size can be around $2,500 and a queen size of the same model is usually $200 more expensive.
4. The Cost of a Mattress is Often Overlooked
Most Murphy beds do not come with a mattress included in the initial price. To add a mattress on top of the bed’s price tag, be prepared to spend an extra $300 – $700 depending on its quality and comfort.
If you have an old mattress that you’re planning on using, make sure that it’s compatible with the wall bed. In most cases it shouldn’t be deeper than 10-12 inches, otherwise you won’t be able to close the bed.
Make sure you read our guide on Do Murphy Beds Need a Special Mattress for more details.
5. The Assembly Process is Expensive
Wall beds will arrive flat packed and will need to be assembled at home. The manufacturer will provide an installation and assembly manual. You can assemble it yourself, with the help of another person, or you can order professional assembly done by an expert.
For example, if you’re shopping from Wayfair they have an option for you to add professional assembly for $160. You can add this service at the check out page. They will then arrange for a professional expert to visit your home and have the item assembled for a fixed price.
Enhancements Can Add Up
Adding a side cabinet and shelves to the bed will create more storage space. However, this will also raise the total cost of the unit.
Additionally, keep in mind that you might need to purchase new bedding, such as bed sheets, duvets, and pillows for your new bed.
Conclusion
Murphy beds can be expensive due to the costs associated with materials, installation and customization. The size of the Murphy bed you choose will have an impact on its overall cost, as well as any additional enhancements you may choose like shelves or cabinets.
With careful consideration and planning, owning a Murphy bed is a great way to save space in your home without having to sacrifice comfort. Regardless of the expense, it can be worth it for those who need extra space but don’t want to compromise quality.
Please note, prices quoted in this article are accurate as of July 3, 2023.
