Choosing between carpet and vinyl flooring in Los Angeles is hard enough! Add pricing into the equation and you’re asking for trouble. Many LA homeowners ask us, “Which one is cheaper to install?” The answer isn’t always straightforward.
At Carpet Wagon, we help customers weigh the pros and cons of each option based on their space, lifestyle and goals. Is cost your top concern? Let’s compare vinyl and carpet flooring in Los Angeles side by side with real pricing data from our team.
Carpet vs. Vinyl: How Do Costs Compare?
Let’s start with the numbers. Below is a comparison of Carpet Wagon’s pricing for 1,000 square feet of flooring, including materials, basic padding or underlayment and flooring installation.
| Tier | Carpet | Luxury Vinyl |
| Value Line | $4,160 | $6,090 |
| Good | $6,500 | $7,810 |
| Better | $10,860 | $11,500 |
Across the board, carpet tends to be $1,500-$2,000 cheaper than vinyl. That makes it a more affordable option upfront, especially if you’re installing in a large area like a living room, hallway or bedrooms.
Does cheaper mean better? That’s not necessarily the case.
What Affects the Price of Carpet and Vinyl Flooring
Several factors affect the final price of any flooring project. This often goes beyond square footage.
When it comes to carpet, think about:
- Material Quality: Polyester is more affordable, while wool is more luxurious.
- Padding Upgrades: Moisture-resistant, high-density padding costs more but is very durable.
- Installation Complexity: Stairs, tight corners or subfloor repairs can add up.
Vinyl flooring, specifically luxury vinyl plank (LVP) prices can vary based on:
- Product Type: Sheet vinyl costs less than LVP.
- Installation method: A click-and-lock floor is easier to install, while glue-down requires more labor.
- Subfloor Preparation: Vinyl needs a clean, level surface to prevent installation issues.
Still deciding what will work for your home? We offer free in-home consultations to help you measure and explore your options. Seeing samples side by side in your own lighting can make a world of difference.
Is Carpet Cheaper Upfront, But More Expensive Later?
When you’re shopping for flooring, you have to think long term. While some flooring options are affordable upfront, they can cost you more over time.
Carpet is more affordable than vinyl flooring upfront. However, it needs to be replaced more often, especially in high-traffic areas, homes with pets or in rental units. The majority of budget carpets last 7-10 years, while vinyl flooring lasts 15-20 years with proper care.
In contrast, vinyl flooring resists water and staining. This makes it the perfect option for kitchens, entryways and laundry rooms. That additional durability can save you money when it’s time for your next remodel. Flooring installation in Los Angeles of Vinyl is also easier to do.
Is your carpet starting to show its age? If you’re cleaning the same spots over and over, vinyl might be a better long-term solution for your needs.
Many of our clients choose luxury vinyl plank (LVP) from a flooring showroom in Los Angeles for busy areas and carpet for bedrooms and dens. This allows for the perfect combination of comfort and durability across rooms.
When to Choose Carpet vs. Vinyl
Still thinking about it? We don’t blame you, here’s a quick cheat sheet you can use based on your space:
Choose carpet if you want:
- A soft, warm feel underfoot
- Sound absorption in bedrooms or upstairs units
- The lowest upfront cost for large coverage areas
Choose vinyl if you need:
- Water resistance in bathrooms, kitchens or basements
- Low maintenance and easy cleaning
- Long-term performance in high-traffic areas
Getting ready to mix and match flooring types in your home? We’ll help you create seamless transitions between rooms while keeping your project on budget.
Carpet Wins On Price, But Vinyl Offers Long-Term Value
Is it cheaper to lay carpet or vinyl in Los Angeles? In short, carpet is cheaper upfront by $1.50-$2.00 per square foot. Meanwhile, vinyl can last longer and may be worth the extra investment. However, you should instead be asking yourself which one offers the best value for your lifestyle. At Carpet Wagon, we can help you make the right decision for your home whether that’s cozy comfort or water resistance and longevity.
Need help deciding between carpet and vinyl flooring? Contact us to schedule a shop-at-home consultation today!
