Furniture and setup costs when moving

When moving into a new home in Ireland, furniture and setup costs can add significantly to overall expenses. These costs are often spread across the first few months of occupancy, but they form a core part of the true cost of moving and should be considered alongside deposits, fees, and transport.

This page outlines typical furniture and setup costs when moving into a new property in Ireland, focusing on essential items, appliances, and household setup expenses.

Overview: Why Furniture and Setup Costs Are Often Missed

Furniture and setup costs are frequently underestimated because they:

  • Are spread over several weeks or months
  • Vary widely based on what is already owned
  • Include many small purchases rather than one large bill
  • Often follow immediately after other major moving expenses

As a result, these costs can significantly increase post-move spending even when rent or mortgage payments are manageable.

Essential Furniture Costs

New or replacement furniture is commonly required, especially when moving from shared, furnished, or temporary accommodation.

Common Furniture Purchases
  • Bed and mattress
  • Sofa or seating
  • Dining table and chairs
  • Storage units (wardrobes, shelving)
Typical Initial Furniture Costs
  • Basic setup: €800 – €1,500
  • More complete furnishing: €1,500 – €3,000+

Costs depend on whether items are purchased new or second-hand and whether furnishing happens all at once or gradually.

Appliances and White Goods

Not all rental properties include a full set of appliances, particularly in older or unfurnished homes.

Common Appliance Costs
  • Fridge or freezer
  • Washing machine
  • Tumble dryer
  • Microwave or small kitchen appliances

Purchasing appliances can add €500 – €1,500+ in upfront costs, depending on quantity and specification.

Household Setup Items

Smaller setup items are often purchased in stages but accumulate quickly.

Typical Household Setup Purchases
  • Kitchenware and utensils
  • Bedding, towels, and linens
  • Cleaning equipment and supplies
  • Basic tools or fixtures

These costs commonly range from €200 – €500, depending on what items are already owned.

Utility and Service Setup

Setting up services in a new home may involve additional one-off or initial expenses.

Common Setup Costs
  • Broadband installation or equipment
  • Television or streaming setup
  • Heating system adjustments or controls

Some of these costs are one-off, while others transition into recurring monthly expenses after the move.

Spreading Furniture and Setup Costs Over Time

Many households choose to phase furniture and setup purchases.

In practice:

  • Costs are spread across the first few months
  • Initial spending may appear lower but continues after moving
  • Early months in a new home often involve higher-than-normal expenses

Even when spread out, these purchases form part of the total cost of relocation.

How Furniture and Setup Costs Affect Overall Moving Expenses

When combined with moving services, deposits, and upfront fees, furniture and setup costs can significantly increase the total cost of changing accommodation.

For many households:

  • Total setup costs exceed €1,000 – €3,000+
  • Costs are highest for first-time renters and buyers
  • Expenses are concentrated in the early months of occupancy

These costs help explain why moving often feels more expensive than expected, even after securing housing.

Summary

Furniture and setup costs represent a substantial part of moving expenses in Ireland. Beds, appliances, and household essentials can add significant upfront costs, even when purchases are kept to a basic level.

Including these expenses alongside deposits, fees, and moving costs provides a more accurate picture of the true cost of setting up a new home in Ireland.

Last updated: January 2026
Figures are indicative and based on publicly available data and typical household purchases. Actual costs vary by property type, household size, and purchasing choices.