How Much Should You Spend on a Mattress in Australia?
Buying a mattress can feel confusing because the prices jump so much. One mattress may cost a few hundred dollars, while another may cost several thousand. So, how much should you spend on a mattress in Australia?
For most everyday sleepers, a good target is around $800 to $2,000 for a queen mattress. This range usually gives a better mix of comfort, support and durability without moving into luxury pricing. You can spend less for a guest room or kids’ room, but for your main bed, it is worth choosing the best quality you can reasonably afford.
This guide will help you compare mattress cost by budget, size and type, then decide what is right for your room, body and sleep style. You can also browse Levede’s affordable mattresses if you want to compare online options while reading.
Quick Answer: How Much Does a Mattress Cost?
A mattress does not need to be the most expensive one in the store to be good. It needs to support your body, feel comfortable for your sleep position and last long enough to make the price worthwhile.
| Budget | What to Expect | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Under $500 | Basic materials and simple support | Guest rooms, kids or short-term use |
| $500–$1,000 | Better entry-level comfort | Budget daily use or spare rooms |
| $1,000–$2,000 | Stronger comfort and support balance | Most main bedrooms |
| $2,000+ | Premium materials and extra features | Couples, larger beds or luxury comfort |
The $1,000 to $2,000 range is often the safest starting point for a main bedroom queen mattress. If your budget is lower, focus on support first and extras second.
Mattress Cost by Size
Size is one of the easiest price factors to understand. A larger mattress uses more materials, so it usually costs more. The right size also depends on your room layout and whether you sleep alone or with a partner.
| Mattress Size | Good For | Buying Note |
|---|---|---|
| Single | Kids, teens and small rooms | Usually the lowest-cost option |
| King single | Taller kids, teens and solo sleepers | More room than a single without taking over the room |
| Double | Solo adults or smaller bedrooms | A smart middle point for space and cost |
| Queen | Couples and main bedrooms | The most practical choice for many Australian homes |
| King | Couples wanting more space | Costs more but gives better room to move |
If you are buying for a couple, a queen mattress is usually the best balance of comfort, space and price. A double mattress can suit solo sleepers or smaller rooms, while a king mattress makes sense if you want more width and have enough bedroom space.
Mattress Cost by Type
Mattress type also changes the price. The material inside the mattress affects how it feels, how much support it gives and how long it may last.
| Mattress Type | Price Impact | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Innerspring | Often more budget-friendly | People who like a firmer, bouncier feel |
| Memory foam | Mid-range depending on foam quality | Side sleepers and pressure relief |
| Hybrid | Often higher than basic foam or spring | Couples and everyday support |
| Latex | Usually more premium | Breathability, bounce and durability |
| Cooling | Can cost more if it uses cooling layers | Hot sleepers and warmer rooms |
Memory foam mattresses can feel soft and body-hugging, which many side sleepers like. A cooling mattress may suit people who often wake up warm or live in hotter climates. Hybrid mattresses are often a strong middle choice because they combine spring support with comfort layers.
Cheap vs Expensive Mattresses: What Is the Difference?
A cheap mattress is not always bad, and an expensive mattress is not always better. The real difference is usually in the support system, comfort layers, material quality and how long the mattress holds its shape.
A low-cost mattress may feel fine at first, but it can soften or sag faster if used every night. This can make it more expensive over time because you may need to replace it sooner.
A mid-range mattress often gives better value for daily use. You may get stronger support, better edge stability and more comfortable layers without paying for luxury branding.
A premium mattress may be worth it if it uses better materials, suits your sleep needs and comes with clear warranty or trial terms. But do not pay more only because the discount looks big. Always compare the final price and the actual features.
Is a Cheap Mattress Worth It?
A cheap mattress can be worth it for a spare room, child’s room, rental setup or short-term use. In these cases, the mattress may not need to handle years of nightly pressure.
For your main bed, be careful with the lowest price. Watch for thin layers, unclear materials, weak edge support, poor reviews about sagging or no clear return policy. If the mattress is used every night, support should come before price.
Is an Expensive Mattress Worth It?
An expensive mattress is worth it only when the higher price gives you something useful. That may include stronger springs, natural latex, better cooling, thicker comfort layers, better motion control or a longer usable life.
If you sleep well on a mid-range mattress, you do not need to keep spending just to chase a premium label. The best mattress is the one that fits your body and budget, not the one with the highest price tag.
Online vs In-Store Mattress Prices
Online mattresses can sometimes offer better value because the buying process is simpler and there may be fewer showroom costs. They are also easier to compare by size, type, firmness and price.
In-store shopping still helps if you want to test the feel before buying. The downside is that lying on a mattress for five minutes is not the same as sleeping on it for a week. Whether you buy online or in-store, check delivery, warranty, returns and trial terms before paying.
How to Choose the Right Mattress Budget
Start with how the mattress will be used. For a main bedroom, spend more on support and durability. For a guest room, a simpler mattress may be enough. For couples, allow more budget for space, edge support and reduced movement across the bed.
Your sleep position matters too. Side sleepers often need more cushioning around the shoulders and hips. Back sleepers usually need balanced support. Stomach sleepers often prefer a firmer surface so the hips do not sink too far.
If your current mattress is still supportive but feels too firm or flat, mattress toppers can be a lower-cost way to add comfort. But if the mattress is sagging or no longer supports your body, a topper will not fix the main problem.
What to Check Before You Buy
Before choosing a mattress, check these points:
-
Mattress size and room fit
-
Firmness level and sleep position
-
Support system and comfort layers
-
Mattress thickness and edge support
-
Delivery, return and warranty terms
-
Whether your current bed base is suitable
-
Whether you need a protector or topper
A proper base matters because it helps the mattress sit evenly. If you are changing size or replacing an old base, compare compatible bed frames before you buy. To protect the new mattress from sweat, spills and daily wear, add a mattress protector from the start.
Final Takeaway
So, how much should you spend on a mattress? For most Australian shoppers, around $800 to $2,000 is a sensible range for daily use, especially in queen size. Spend less for occasional use and more when you need better support, a larger size or premium materials.
The goal is not to buy the cheapest mattress or the most expensive one. The goal is to buy the mattress that gives you the right mix of comfort, support, durability and value.
FAQs About Mattress Cost
How much should I spend on a mattress in Australia?
For daily use, many shoppers should budget around $800 to $2,000, especially for a queen mattress. You can spend less for a guest room or more for premium comfort and materials.
What is the average cost of a good mattress?
A good mattress can cost from several hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars, depending on the size, type and materials. For most main bedrooms, a mid-range mattress gives the best balance.
How much does a queen mattress cost?
A queen mattress usually costs more than a single or double mattress but less than a king mattress. Price depends on material, thickness, support system and brand.
Is $500 enough for a mattress?
$500 can be enough for light use, kids or guest rooms. For daily use, check the support, thickness, reviews and warranty before choosing a mattress at this price.
Is a $1,000 mattress worth it?
Yes, a $1,000 mattress can be worth it if it has good support, clear materials and a fair warranty. It often sits in a strong value range for everyday sleepers.
Are expensive mattresses always better?
No. Higher price does not always mean better sleep. A mattress should suit your body, sleep position and comfort preference.
Is it cheaper to buy a mattress online or in-store?
Online mattresses can sometimes be cheaper because they may have lower overheads. In-store buying can help if you want to test the feel first.
When is the best time to buy a mattress in Australia?
EOFY, Black Friday, Boxing Day and stocktake sales can be good times to buy. Always compare the final price, not just the discount percentage.