Get Paid to Assemble IKEA Furniture: The Side Hustle That Pays Like a Real Job
Hate your 9–5? Love building stuff?
Then this hustle might be your shortcut to extra cash.
IKEA furniture assembly is one of the easiest ways to make money locally in 2025—no degree, no fancy tools, no experience needed. I’ve seen people charge $40 to $60 an hour just to put together beds, desks, and shelves. And trust me, folks are happy to pay just to avoid the headache.
In my opinion, this is one of the fastest weekend hustles you can start—with real money and no fluff.
How Much Does It Cost to Have Someone Assemble IKEA Furniture?
On average, hiring someone to assemble IKEA furniture costs between $30 to $75 per hour, depending on your location, the complexity of the furniture, and the platform you use.
For example:
| Furniture Type | Typical Assembly Cost |
|---|---|
| Small items (chairs, nightstands) | $30–$50 |
| Medium items (desks, dressers) | $50–$90 |
| Large items (beds, wardrobes) | $75–$150+ |
Most clients are charged either per hour or per item. Platforms like TaskRabbit, Thumbtack, or Handy often list fixed prices for common IKEA products. A MALM dresser, for instance, might cost $60–$80 to assemble, while a full wardrobe could run over $100.
In my opinion, what makes this hustle powerful is the low competition and high value. People are willing to pay a premium for convenience—especially if they’ve already been burned by confusing instructions or missing screws.
So if you're handy (or at least patient), this is a solid side gig that pays well and doesn’t require a big upfront investment.
How Much Does It Cost to Have Someone Install an IKEA Kitchen?
Installing an IKEA kitchen is a whole different ballgame compared to assembling a dresser or desk. While basic furniture assembly might cost $50 an hour, IKEA kitchen installations typically range from $2,500 to $5,000+, depending on size, layout, and customization.
Here’s a breakdown to help you see the money in this niche:
| Kitchen Size | Estimated Cost (Labor Only) |
|---|---|
| Small Apartment Kitchen | $2,000 – $3,500 |
| Medium Family Kitchen | $3,500 – $5,000 |
| Large or Custom Layout | $5,000+ |
💡 Pro Tip: IKEA partners with third-party pros like TaskRabbit and Traemand, but many people still search for independent installers to save money or get faster service. That’s where you can step in.
🧠 My Opinion:
If you’re already assembling cabinets and feel confident using power tools, leveling cabinets, or following kitchen layouts, this could be your next-level side hustle. The earning potential is huge, especially if you can market yourself in local Facebook groups, offer bundled pricing, or help clients avoid long wait times.
Kitchen installs may not be for complete beginners—but if you’re handy and want to scale up from basic assembly work, this is where the real money lives.
IKEA Furniture Assembly Cost: What You’ll Actually Pay in 2025
How much does it cost to get IKEA furniture assembled?
The short answer: Anywhere from $30 to $150+, depending on what you're building and who you hire.
Here’s a simple breakdown:
| Furniture Type | Average Cost (Per Item) |
|---|---|
| Chair / Nightstand | $30 – $50 |
| Desk / TV Stand | $50 – $75 |
| Dresser / Bookshelf | $60 – $90 |
| Bed / Wardrobe | $80 – $150+ |
🛠️ What Affects the Cost?
Time: Most pros charge $35–$65/hour.
Complexity: A MALM dresser takes ~1 hour, while a PAX wardrobe can take 2–3.
Location: Cities tend to cost more (higher demand, more travel time).
Platform Fees: TaskRabbit and Handy add service fees (5–20%).
Time: Most pros charge $35–$65/hour.
Complexity: A MALM dresser takes ~1 hour, while a PAX wardrobe can take 2–3.
Location: Cities tend to cost more (higher demand, more travel time).
Platform Fees: TaskRabbit and Handy add service fees (5–20%).
🧠 My Take:
In my opinion, people don’t mind paying for this service—they just want it done fast and correctly. That’s why this is such a great local hustle: no licenses, no big tools, and no special skills required.
How to Offer IKEA Assembly Services (Step-by-Step for Beginners)
If you’re thinking, “Okay, this sounds great, but how do I actually start making money doing this?”—you’re in the right place. I’ll break it down for you my way, with no fluff and no gatekeeping.
✅ Step 1: Start With the Basics
You don’t need to be a pro handyman. In fact, if you’ve ever followed an IKEA instruction manual without crying, you’re halfway there.
Here’s what I recommend starting with:
Tools: Get a cordless drill, a set of screwdrivers, a rubber mallet, and an Allen key set. That’s it.
Practice: Assemble your own furniture or help a friend. Take photos of the finished product—you’ll need these for your profile later.
🌍 Step 2: Choose Your Platform
There are three main ways to get paid:
| Platform | Best For | How It Works |
|---|---|---|
| TaskRabbit | Fast jobs, hourly work | You list your service, set your hourly rate |
| Facebook Marketplace | Local gigs, no fees | Post services in local groups with pics |
| Thumbtack | Bigger jobs, like wardrobes | Create a pro profile, get matched with leads |
💡 My tip: Start on Facebook—it’s free, local, and builds trust fast.
💸 Step 3: Set Your Price (Without Underselling Yourself)
As a beginner, start in the $30–$40/hour range. Once you get reviews and experience, you can easily bump that to $50–$75/hour.
Package pricing works too:
Chairs/tables: $35 flat
Desks/dressers: $60 flat
Beds/wardrobes: $90–$120 flat
🔥 Step 4: Promote Yourself Like a Local Pro
This is where the magic happens:
Post before & after pics of each job (yes, even the small stuff)
Share reviews from happy clients (ask for a text testimonial or rating)
Offer weekend/last-minute help—you’ll beat 90% of the competition just by being available
🧠 My Opinion:
People don’t want to spend their Saturdays crying over screws—they’d rather pay you to handle it. And the best part? You’re offering real value without needing a degree or deep pockets.
This is a hustle that grows fast, scales easily, and builds your reputation one job at a time.
How to Scale Your IKEA Furniture Assembly Side Hustle Into a Full Business
Ready to take your IKEA assembly hustle from side gig to serious income? Let’s break down how you can grow, build a brand, and turn this into a steady revenue stream. All without needing a business degree—just some hustle and smart moves.
🔧 Step 1: Expand Your Services Beyond IKEA
Sure, IKEA is the obvious go-to for furniture assembly, but why stop there?
Target other furniture brands: Stores like Wayfair, Ashley Furniture, and West Elm have assembly needs too.
Offer additional services: Closet installations (PAX-style), TV mounting, even minor home repairs (IKEA sells lighting and other small items that need a professional touch).
🏠 Step 2: Build Your Brand and Reputation
This is where personal branding kicks in:
Create a business name: Something simple and easy to remember (like "Mo's Furniture Fix").
Website: You don’t need something fancy. Just a one-page site with your services, rates, and testimonials is enough.
Social media presence: Instagram and Facebook are great for showing off your work. A quick video of you assembling a bed? Instant trust-builder.
📈 Step 3: Get Clients on Repeat
Once you’ve got a few jobs under your belt, now it’s time to keep those clients coming back.
Offer discounts for repeat business: For example, “20% off your next assembly when you refer a friend!”
Follow up: After a job is done, shoot a text or email thanking them and asking for feedback. If they liked your work, ask for a referral.
Offer seasonal deals: During busy times like back-to-school or holiday season, offer bundled services (like assembling multiple items for a flat price).
🧠 Step 4: Hire Help & Expand
As your business grows, you can bring on a few extra hands to help:
Hire part-time helpers for larger jobs or to cover more ground.
Keep the quality high by training your team to match your work standards.
This will allow you to take on more jobs and scale efficiently, rather than turning away clients because you’re too busy.
💡 Step 5: Invest in Tools & Marketing
Tools: The more specialized you get (for example, a power drill), the faster you can finish jobs. Time is money!
Marketing: Run Facebook ads targeting local areas. Promote specific services during peak times (like post-Christmas for people assembling gifts).
Tools: The more specialized you get (for example, a power drill), the faster you can finish jobs. Time is money!
Marketing: Run Facebook ads targeting local areas. Promote specific services during peak times (like post-Christmas for people assembling gifts).
🧠 My Opinion:
This hustle might start small, but with a little effort and smart moves, it can grow into a profitable small business. The demand for furniture assembly isn’t going anywhere—and people will pay good money to avoid the headache of assembling their own furniture.
How Much Does IKEA Charge for Planning Services?
IKEA offers free kitchen planning services through their IKEA Kitchen Planning Tool, which allows you to design your kitchen layout online. However, if you prefer personalized help from an in-store expert, here’s what you can expect:
1. Free Kitchen Planning:
Online Tool: You can use their IKEA Kitchen Planner online for free to create your custom kitchen design, with suggested products and layouts.
In-Store Planning: Most IKEA stores offer free in-store planning consultations for kitchen setups. The planner will guide you in creating the layout, choosing products, and ensuring everything fits your space.
Online Tool: You can use their IKEA Kitchen Planner online for free to create your custom kitchen design, with suggested products and layouts.
In-Store Planning: Most IKEA stores offer free in-store planning consultations for kitchen setups. The planner will guide you in creating the layout, choosing products, and ensuring everything fits your space.
2. Paid Services:
If you want premium services, such as detailed design advice or professional help, there may be additional fees:
IKEA Home Delivery and Assembly: Delivery and assembly services are typically charged separately. For a full kitchen installation, these can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000+, depending on the scope.
Advanced 3D Design: Some locations offer advanced 3D rendering and design services for an additional cost.
If you want premium services, such as detailed design advice or professional help, there may be additional fees:
IKEA Home Delivery and Assembly: Delivery and assembly services are typically charged separately. For a full kitchen installation, these can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000+, depending on the scope.
Advanced 3D Design: Some locations offer advanced 3D rendering and design services for an additional cost.
💡 My Opinion:
IKEA’s free planning options are perfect for anyone who wants to create a functional space on their own. But if you're looking for a more customized experience, be ready to pay for premium services. Regardless, it’s one of the most affordable planning options out there compared to competitors.
Summary: IKEA's Planning Services and Costs
IKEA offers free kitchen planning services both online and in-store. The online Kitchen Planner Tool lets you design your space at no cost, while in-store consultations with experts are also free. However, if you're looking for premium services, such as detailed 3D designs or professional kitchen installations, expect additional costs.
Delivery and assembly services can range from $2,000 to $5,000+ depending on the complexity. Overall, IKEA provides an affordable option for kitchen planning, with both free and paid services available based on your needs.
How to Maximize Your IKEA eg: Kitchen Planning Experience
To get the most out of your IKEA kitchen planning, follow these tips to ensure a smoother, more cost-effective process:
1. Take Advantage of Free Services
IKEA’s free in-store consultations are a fantastic resource. You’ll get hands-on guidance from an expert who can help you optimize your kitchen layout for function and style without paying extra for the consultation.
2. Use the Online Tools Wisely
IKEA’s free online planning tool allows you to visualize your space before committing to anything. This is especially useful if you're on a budget and want to get a good idea of how different items fit together.
3. Double-Check Measurements
Measure your space multiple times to ensure your kitchen will fit perfectly. Mistakes here can lead to unnecessary costs, like additional delivery fees or having to reorder the wrong size items.
4. Budget for Extra Costs
While planning is free, installation, delivery, and additional services can add up. Be sure to include these expenses in your budget to avoid surprises.
5. Look for Deals
Keep an eye out for seasonal sales and promotions that IKEA frequently runs, especially around major holidays. You could save a lot on both products and services.
Conclusion: Simplify Your Kitchen with IKEA's Planning Services
Whether you’re planning a DIY kitchen setup or opting for professional assembly and installation, IKEA makes the process simple and affordable. Their free planning services—including both online tools and in-store consultations—ensure that even if you have zero experience, you can still create a beautiful and functional kitchen.
If you're willing to invest in premium design or installation services, IKEA offers a cost-effective way to transform your space without breaking the bank. With the right planning, a clear budget, and a little patience, you can enjoy a kitchen that fits both your needs and your wallet.
Ready to start designing? Grab your measuring tape, head to your local IKEA, and turn your kitchen dreams into reality!