Mirrors are a common household item that most people use daily without much thought. However, when it comes time to purchase a new mirror, especially a large decorative mirror, the costs can be surprising. In this article, we will explore the factors that influence mirror prices and provide average costs for various types of mirrors.
What impacts the cost of a mirror?
There are several key factors that affect how much a mirror will cost:
Size
The size of a mirror is the most obvious factor impacting its price. Larger mirrors require more materials, heavier frames, and skilled labor to fabricate. A small 12″ x 16″ mirror could cost $20, while an oversized wall mirror 60″ x 42″ might cost over $300.
Design
Plain rectangular mirrors are the simplest and most affordable style. Once you add ornate frames, beveled edges, or curved shapes, the mirror complexity goes up along with the price. Hand carved frames or etched mirrors take more time to make, driving costs higher.
Features
Special features will also increase mirror costs. Lighted mirrors require electrical components and installation. Mirrors with anti-fog features or defoggers cost more to incorporate those elements. Portable mirrors with wheels or hanging hardware add convenience at an added expense.
Materials
The materials used in making a mirror impact the price significantly. Low-end mirrors use soda lime glass with cardboard backing. Higher quality mirrors employ more durable tempered glass, thicker glass, or specialty glass types like antique, smoked, or tinted glass. The frame materials also matter, with plastic being the cheapest and wrought iron, solid wood, or marble frames adding cost.
Brand Name
Well-known designer brands like Restoration Hardware or Pottery Barn charge a premium for the perception of quality and reputation associated with their mirror products. Lesser known or generic brands typically have more affordable pricing for comparable styles.
Place of Purchase
Where you purchase a mirror also affects the price you’ll pay. Big box stores like Walmart and IKEA offer lower prices with discounted shipping on basic mirrors. Purchasing from a specialty mirror retailer or custom framing shop typically comes at a higher cost. If it must be custom built and installed onsite, the labor and delivery fees will increase the total mirror price as well.
Average Costs of Common Mirror Types
Now that we’ve reviewed the factors that influence mirror costs, let’s look at the average price ranges for some of the most popular mirror types and sizes:
Bathroom Mirror
A basic 16” x 24” rectangular bathroom vanity mirror costs $15 to $30. Large plate glass bathroom mirrors can range from $75 to $200+ depending on size and features. Lighted bathroom mirrors cost $150 to $600+ depending on size.
Wall Mirror
Small 18” x 24” rectangular wall mirrors cost approximately $30 to $60. Oversized statement mirrors like a 48” x 60” rectangular mirror can cost $200 to $800 based on materials and design details.
Full Length Mirror
A basic 24” x 60” rectangular full length mirror costs approximately $70 to $150. Full length mirrors with lights or ornate frames can cost $200 to $500.
| Mirror Type | Typical Size Range | Average Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Bathroom mirror | 16″ x 24″ up to 48″ x 36″ | $15 – $200+ |
| Wall mirror | 18″ x 24″ up to 60″ x 42″ | $30 – $800 |
| Full length mirror | 24″ x 60″ up to 72″ x 36″ | $70 – $500 |
Decorative Accent Mirror
Small 8” to 12” diameter round or oval mirrors cost approximately $15 to $30. Ornate vintage-style mirrors run $50 to $150+ depending on the frame details. Large statement accent mirrors like a 42” diameter sunburst mirror can cost $100 to $400 based on materials.
Vanity/Dressing Mirror
Tabletop vanity mirrors start around $25 for basic models up to $100 for lighted mirrors with magnification. Elaborate multi-panel dressing mirrors with stands cost $150 to $600 based on size, lights, and design.
Mirror Tiles
Individual mirror tiles for backsplashes and accent walls run $5 to $20 per square foot material costs. Installation costs typically add $10 to $30 per square foot. Making a statement with mirror tiles can easily cost over $1,000 with labor.
Factors That Increase Mirror Costs
There are a few elements that can significantly bump up the price of any mirror:
Custom Size
Going beyond standard mirror sizes and shapes often means paying for a custom fabrication. This requires creating a unique frame and cutting the mirror precisely to size. These special order pieces cost 50-100% more than comparable stock sizes.
Beveled Edges
The specialized grinding required to create beveled edges adds labor and complexity versus basic straight edges. This detail alone can add $50 or more to the total cost.
Heavy Frames
Thicker, heavier frames made from hardwood, wrought iron, marble, etc. add weight and sophistication. These premium materials cost significantly more per square foot than lightweight frames.
Installation
Professionally installing a mirror costs $50 to $150 per mirror on average. Complex installations requiring wiring for lights or structural reinforcements drive the price even higher.
Designer Branding
You’ll pay a premium price for mirrors from high-end brands like Restoration Hardware. Expect to pay at least 50% more compared to mirrors of similar quality without the designer label.
Factors That Decrease Mirror Costs
On the flip side, there are some shortcuts that lead to more budget-friendly mirror pricing:
Stock Sizes
Choosing from in-stock, standard mirror sizes results in the lowest prices. The retailer saves on custom fabrication fees, so you save on the cost per square foot.
Lightweight Frames
Thin plastic frames keep material costs down without sacrificing style. These inexpensive frames help offset higher glass prices from full-length or oversize mirrors.
Fewer Embellishments
Skipping the beveled edges, etching, carvings, finishings, and other decorative add-ons results in a simpler mirror design with a lower price point.
DIY Installation
If you can handle measuring, leveling, hanging, and wiring a mirror yourself, you avoid hourly labor fees for professional installation.
Sale Shopping
Retailers regularly run sales, markdowns, and coupons on mirrors, especially around major holidays. With some patience, you can often score 15-30% off the retail price.
Where to Find Deals on Mirrors
If you’re looking to get the most mirror for your money, check out these budget-friendly options:
IKEA
IKEA has a great selection of minimalist, modern mirrors from tiny $5 styles to large statement mirrors under $150. Shop in-store or online for low prices, especially on their house brand stock mirrors.
Amazon
Search Amazon for inexpensive mirror options with free Prime shipping. Sort by customer rating and low price to find bargains.
Big Box Stores
Walmart, Target, and Kohl’s typically have affordable mirror selections in-store and online. They often allow store pickup to avoid shipping fees.
Home Improvement Stores
Home Depot and Lowe’s offer some extremely competitive pricing on basic bathroom and full length mirrors. Look for 10-25% below smaller specialty shops.
Thrift Stores
Search thrift stores and consignment shops for unique vintage mirrors. Re-framing or upcycling dated styles creates one-of-a-kind mirrors on a budget.
DIY Kits
Create your own mirror for 70-90% off retail prices. Purchase unfinished wood frames and glass at craft stores, then watch tutorial videos to assemble mirrors exactly how you want.
Tips for Saving on Mirror Purchases
Follow these tips to keep mirror costs as low as possible:
- Measure carefully to find an in-stock size that requires no custom cutting.
- Look for mirror packages that include the hanging hardware to avoid an extra purchase.
- Select frames made from affordable materials like plastic, resin, or extruded aluminum.
- Shop sales and use coupons from home goods stores and online retailers.
- Price compare between sellers, as mirror prices can vary widely.
- Choose economy shipping like ground or pickup instead of expedited shipping.
- Provide your own basic installation unless a pro is needed for wiring or structural support.
- Repurpose old mirrors by cutting pieces to size or painting the frames.
The Bottom Line
Mirror costs range widely from just a few dollars for a tiny decorative style up to $800+ for an oversized, custom framed statement mirror. Measure carefully, look for sales, and consider affordable frame materials to get a stylish mirror that fits your budget. With smart shopping and creative DIY options, you can design a beautiful, functional living space with mirrors without overspending.