Are you wondering why floor lamps are so expensive? When compared to a table lamp or even a pendant, floor lamps can seem pricey. So what’s behind the floor lamp price tag?
In this post, we’ll investigate the cost of floor lamps and see if the high price tag is justified. Then, we’ll look at where you can buy floor lamps that don’t break the bank.
Basic Economics
The most obvious reason why floor lamps are expensive is due to basic economics. Since floor lamps are larger and require more material, they cost more to produce than smaller table or reading lamps. Add in retail overheads like shipping and handling, and the price quickly rises! These costs are ultimately passed on to the consumer.
Material Matters
The main factor that goes into floor lamp pricing is the type of materials used in their construction. Floor lamps are typically made with expensive materials like brass, aluminum, or steel. These metals have seen a dramatic rise in price over the past few years, which directly affects floor lamp pricing.
The design of floor lamps requires them to have sturdy, heavy-duty metal frames and weighted bases to prevent them from tipping. Table lamps can be made using cheap materials like plastic, but floor lamps require stronger materials to ensure their stability and safety.
Durability & Longevity
Consumers expect floor lamps to last for decades. Unlike table lamps which people tend to replace every few years, floor lamps are built to last. Because of this increased expectation for durability, floor lamp manufacturers must use higher-quality materials and components in their construction, which adds a lot to the overall cost.
Shipping & Storage Costs
Floor lamps are large and bulky, so they require expensive shipping and storage. These extra costs are reflected in floor lamp pricing. From a retailer’s point of view, carrying a large stock of bulky floor lamps requires them to dedicate additional floor space and extra storage. All this adds to the cost of floor lamps.
Shipping costs can also be expensive as floor lamps are heavy. This is especially true if you’re ordering a floor lamp online, as the retailer has to factor in the shipping costs; they might offer you ‘free shipping’ on checkout but don’t think they haven’t factored that cost into the retail price.
Artistic Premium
Floor lamps can also be considered luxury items, with many floor lamp designs featuring unique styles and intricate details. As floor lamps are often seen as a statement piece in any living space, the price tag associated with floor lamps reflects this artistic premium.
Consumer Psychology
The final reason why retailers are able to attach a higher price tag to floor lamps is consumer psychology. When people see a larger product, they often assume that they are getting more for their money. This perceived value can be used to justify a higher price.
In summary, floor lamps are expensive due to the cost of materials, their size, and the expectation of durability. Some floor lamp designs also carry an artistic premium that is reflected in their price tag. Finally, consumer psychology can be used to justify higher prices on floor lamps. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t find affordable floor lamps!
Where To Buy Cheap Floor Lamps?
Fortunately, there are plenty of floor lamps that don’t cost an arm and a leg. You can find floor lamps in the budget-friendly price range at discount retailers like Amazon and Ikea.
The Swedish interior store Ikea has one of the best selections of floor lamps in all price brackets. Their floor lamps start at just $10 and go up to around $349.
Ikea – Style & Affordability
My favorite Ikea floor lamp is the ‘KINNAHULT‘; this traditional design suits most interiors and is available for just $69.99. Those looking for a statement piece might like the FYXNÄS, a tripod design with a fabric shade that blends modern striking design with affordability. At $49.99, it’s a great bargain. Finally, the RANARP is the perfect choice for those looking for a great reading lamp. You can easily direct the light where you want it because the lamp arm and head are adjustable.
KINNAHULT
RANARP
FYXNÄS
Amazon – Incredible Range
Another great place to find floor lamps at affordable prices is Amazon. The online retailer has thousands of floor lamp options in different price ranges and styles. Many floor lamps are available for under $100.
The SUNMORY is a modern arc floor lamp with a dimmable bulb and hanging drum shade, and weighted base. It has a 4.6/5 rating and is available for $69.99, making it a great investment that won’t break the bank.
SUNMORY Arc Floor Lamp
Designer Prices
For those looking for something more upmarket, I recommend checking out Lumen’s online store for designer floor lamps.
While these are not cheap lamps, Lumen does have floor lamps that you won’t find at discount retailers. So if it’s a designer floor lamp you’re after, then Lumen is a perfect choice. Prices range from around $200 to several thousand.
The most expensive floor lamp I could find was the Transmission Lamp by deFORM at $33,000! It’s a beautiful futuristic design with a price tag that ensures you won’t see this floor lamp in too many homes!
Transmission Lamp by deFORM
In conclusion, floor lamps don’t have to be expensive. You can find floor lamps for all price points at retailers like Amazon and Ikea, or for those looking for something more upmarket, designer floor lamps are available from Lumen’s online store.
