As the capital and most populous city of the state of Rhode Island, Providence offers its residents a charming mix of New England culture along with all the excitement and amenities of larger city life. Known as “The Creative Capital,” it’s no wonder that its streets are filled with a number of unique shops and boutiques. If you’re in the market for some furniture to fill your new apartment, or are just looking for a décor overhaul in your current one, here are our suggestions for the best places to find nice, cheap furniture in Providence.
Whether you walk into the store knowing exactly what you’re looking for or are just in the mood for some browsing, Benefit Street Antiques provides a great customer experience. Housed in a unique, light-filled space, the owners thoughtfully organize each piece in this quintessential antiques shop, and everything is clearly marked with the price.
Where: 243 Wickenden St., Providence, RI 02903
This large discount furniture outlet might not be the prettiest around, but it offers the most bang for your buck if you’re looking for sturdy, quality furniture for rock bottom prices. This place is massive, so it helps to have some idea of what you’re looking for before you walk in. If you stick to a plan, you might just walk away with some great furniture for your apartment for cheap.
Where: 699 Hartford Ave., Providence, RI 02909
Rocket To Mars is a quirky, retro-themed consignment shop in the trendy Federal Hill neighborhood of Providence. In addition to furniture, you’ll also find unique, one-of-a-kind home décor pieces to make your apartment feel more like a home. Things are a little bit more expensive compared to other antique or consignment shops in the city, but you’re paying for high quality, certifiably vintage and retro merchandise.
Where: 144 Broadway, Providence, RI 02903
This standard thrift store in East Providence is packed to the gills with nice, cheap furniture, as well as other goods like clothing, home décor items and accessories. If you’re a loyal customer, you can earn a rewards card, where every $5 purchase allows you to fill up your card and save up to 30 percent on your next purchase.
Where: 1925 Pawtucket Ave., East Providence, RI 02906
If you prefer your furniture to be on the more artsy side, Oop is the store for you. This spirited boutique carries novelty gifts, jewelry, home décor, furniture and other pieces made in small quantities and designed by local artists and designers, but without the hefty price tags of other antique shops.
Where: 220 Westminster St., Providence, RI 02903
Photo credit: iStockphoto/Spooky2006