40+ Cheap or Free Home Upgrades That Look Straight Out of a Farmhouse Magazine

If you’ve been dreaming of a cozy farmhouse home but don’t want to break the bank, you’re in the right place! These cheap or free home upgrades are simple, creative, and perfect for adding rustic charm to your space. Whether you’re decorating a rental, reviving an old space, or just love that budget-friendly DIY decor look, this list is full of farmhouse-style ideas you can start today.

Free or Nearly-Free Fixes

1. Rearrange furniture – Open up space by shifting your layout.
2. Declutter – Clear off surfaces and simplify for a cleaner, farmhouse vibe.
3. Deep clean baseboards & windows – Brightens up any room instantly.
4. Print free farmhouse-style wall art – Frame dollar store prints or use clipboards.
5. Paint furniture you already own – A coat of white or sage green = instant farmhouse charm.
6. Swap pillow covers – Use neutral tones, checks, or florals.
7. Create a DIY shiplap wall using peel-and-stick wallpaper or painted lines.
8. Display mason jars as decor – Fill with flowers, candles, or cotton stems.
9. Bring nature inside – Clip greenery from the yard for a fresh touch.
10. Restyle open shelves with items you already have.

Low-Budget Farmhouse-Inspired Renovation Ideas

11. Paint your front door – A fresh black, sage, or barn red paint job = big impact.
12. Add peel-and-stick backsplash – Faux brick or tile adds farmhouse flair.
13. Replace cabinet hardware – Swap modern knobs for matte black or antique brass.
14. DIY wood beam ceiling look – Use lightweight wood or faux beams.
15. Frame bathroom mirrors – Adds polish for under $20.
16. Upgrade light switch plates – Wood or vintage-style ones can transform a wall.
17. Install a barn door – You can build one or find budget kits online.
18. Change out light fixtures – Swap builder-grade lights for farmhouse pendants.
19. Use chalk paint on outdated dressers, vanities, or nightstands.
20. Hang curtains higher – It makes ceilings look taller and feels cozier.

Affordable DIY Upgrades

21. Paint accent walls – Use leftover paint or sample cans.
22. Create a gallery wall – Use thrifted frames or washi tape borders.
23. DIY wreath for the door – Use dollar store florals or items from nature.
24. Replace outlet covers – Try vintage or wood-look options.
25. Add stick-on floor tiles – Great for small spaces like laundry rooms or bathrooms.
26. Use fabric as wallpaper – Lightweight fabric (like lace) and starch = removable wall covering.
27. Create a coffee bar nook – Use items you already own.
28. Line shelves with contact paper – Marble, wood, or gingham styles.
29. Hang hooks or peg rails – Great for organizing while looking cute.
30. Decorate with baskets – Use for storage and display on walls or shelves.

Free or Low-Cost Touches

31. Use old ladders for blanket storage – Rustic and functional.
32. Swap area rugs or layer them – Thrift one or rotate what you have.
33. Add candles in mason jars or glass cups – Instant cozy.
34. Create mood lighting with string lights – Indoors or on a porch.
35. Move plants around – Re-pot in farmhouse-style containers (like tin cans).
36. Make a no-sew curtain – Use clips on a tension rod with fabric or even tea towels.
37. Upgrade doors with trim – Use MDF or plywood strips to create a panel look.
38. Cover ugly tile with peel-and-stick options – Especially in rental homes.
39. DIY a headboard – Try shiplap, fabric-wrapped board, or even painted wall art.
40. Stencil a floor or wall – Just one can of paint and a little time.
41. Create Faux Wood Beams with Paint or Foam – Get the farmhouse ceiling vibe without structural changes. Use painted foam beams or wood-colored paint and shading techniques to fake the look of exposed wood beams—super budget-friendly and impactful!
42. Display Cutting Boards or Vintage Kitchen Tools – Group a few wooden cutting boards, old rolling pins, or metal sifters on a shelf or wall. They instantly give off cozy farmhouse kitchen vibes—and you probably already have some tucked away!
43. Paint an Interior Door Black or Sage Green – Choose one interior door—maybe your pantry or bedroom—and give it a bold farmhouse color makeover. Black, deep sage, or soft beige adds character and contrast for under $20.