Inexpensive Area Rugs: Style Under $250

A good area rug will protect your floor and tie the design of a room together. It’s often the first thing people notice when they walk into a room, which is why choosing one that complements the rest of your decor is so important.

But an area rug can also end up being one of the most expensive items you buy for your home—stretching to thousands of dollars. But it doesn’t have to! We challenged three interior designers to find high-quality, stylish rugs at the extremely reasonable price of $250 or less.

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Here are expert-approved area rugs that will elevate your home’s look and won’t drain your bank account.

Antique-inspired rug

If you’re looking to stay on-trend and within your budget, consider this over-dyed rug (Overstock, $235) inspired by antique Persian prints.

“Available in various sizes and colors, this rug is a bit dressier option for a living room, master bedroom, or dining room,” says Danny Taylor of real estate and interior design firm DT & Company Interiors based in Raleigh, NC.

Galway rug

For comfort and style, Taylor suggests seeking out this rug (Home Depot, $175). It comes in three neutral colors that are universally appealing in just about any home.

“This rug would be great in a family room or a bedroom,” says Taylor. “The pattern can go classic or boho depending on your furnishings.”

Evins rug

This handmade wool rug (Overstock, $249) featuring artful zigzags would work well in a variety of spaces.

“Black and cream pair nicely with just about anything,” says Michelle Myers of Joli G Interiors & Designs in San Diego, who selected this rug. She recommends buying floor coverings made of wool versus other synthetic materials, because they are heavier, lay nicer, resist stains, and tend to not curl up on the ends.

And while wool rugs can cost big bucks, this one is an inexpensive option.

“This rug would look awesome with just about any other bold room color,” Myers says. Her No. 1 suggestion? Emerald green.

Auruma Saharan Temple rug

This option (RugsUSA, $158) is reminiscent of a vintage Persian rug—at a much lower price.

“This rug could be paired with modern or rustic furnishings to achieve a beautiful look,” Myers says.

Mini Pebble rug

For the eco-conscious shopper, this rug (West Elm, $174) is a blend of jute—a renewable, durable plant fiber—and wool.

Kelly Edwards, an interior designer who works in L.A. and Chicago, chose this rug because it’s stylish and casual at the same time.

“Jute rugs are perfect for any space,” Edwards says.

These types of rugs do shed, but the process should subside within three to six months. They should also be kept out of moist environments—like the outdoors or the bathroom—because they’re highly absorbent and can grow mold or mildew.

Province rug

This classic handwoven rug (One Kings Lane, $179.50) is crafted out of jute, and has a nice natural feel, with gray and sand colors woven throughout.

“It’s an easy addition to any style or type of decor because it’s made of natural materials,” says Beth Gwazdosky Martino, owner of Hummingbird Interiors, Staging & Design in Austin, TX. “It’s got texture and style, and will stand the test of time.”

Marquette rug

Ideal in a high-traffic area like a foyer or living room, this indoor-outdoor rug (Ballard Designs, $249) comes in three different colors. The washable, UV-treated polypropylene resists fading and mildew. Many reviewers praise the rug’s beauty and durability.

“It’s got character and versatility,” says Martino. “An indoor and outdoor convertible rug that’s sturdy and attractive.”

Bold striped rug

For a bold yet simple look, consider this hand-loomed, black-and-white-striped rug (West Elm, $239).

Martino likes this cotton rug for its durability and classic style. Plus, it’s reversible, which means you can flip it over if it gets stained.