9 Modern Dining Chairs All Under $120
After a decade, it was finally time to upgrade our dining chairs. I considered many options and scouted thrift stores and barn sales for months. I knew I wanted something sturdy and timeless to fit into our neutral home decor. From casual to formal, there were so many chair options! It was difficult to decide. Today, I’m sharing some of my favorite modern dining chairs (all under $120) and some tips on choosing the right ones for your space.
While searching for chair options, I came up with a list of contenders. Here are a few other modern dining chairs I think would work work well in many dining rooms that I had on my list:
Affordable Dining Chair Sources
- Black Wishbone Dining Chairs – these are the ones we have now and I love them – I use them in other parts of thse house too, like the office
- Natural Wood Chairs – the one shown are sold out but these classic chairs are easy to include and the light wood looks great with a darker table
- Wood and Black Dining Room Chair – Ideal for mid century modern style
- Metal and Woven Chairs (perfect for a California Coastal Dining Room Design)
- Mid Century Armless Chairs – Simple shape makes it easy to slide in under the table
- Faux Leather Dining Room Chairs – Clean, streamlined shape and faux leather adds warmth
Dining Chair Tips
- The top of the chair should be above the table height
- If you’re working with a small room, choose an armless chair that can push all the way in under the dining table
- The chair seat should be about 12″ from the table top for leg room
During my search, I found these beautiful wishbone chairs. They definitely feel at home in remodeled dining room! The rounded chair backs, balances all of the lines going on in here. I wasn’t sure how comfortable they’d be but everyone seems to enjoy sitting in them (even Gnocchi!).
What’s Your Interior Design Style?
Additionally, the contrasting woven seat on these chairs adds texture I’m always looking for! Texture is one of the 7 Elements of Interior Design so these chairs are a nice way to add that depth and warmth to the space.
Many Chair Style Options
If you’re in the process of choosing dining chairs, you might be wondering: what are my options? There are actually quite a few, and each style brings a different vibe to your space.
- Armchairs – Great for a more formal or cozy setting, often used at the heads of the table.
- Wishbone Chairs – A modern classic with a sculptural feel and comfortable curved back.
- Parsons Chairs – Simple shape and versatile, they work well in both traditional and modern rooms.
- Wingback Chairs – Bold and make a statement, these are often upholstered for comfort.
- Ladder Back Chairs – A more casual, timeless style with charming slatted backs, think farmhouse or traditional
Dining Room Chair FAQs
If you’re not sure about what size dining chair you need, dining chair size guide can be helpful. I also like using furniture I already have on hand to test out different heights and sizes.
It depends on the size of your table and how much space you want each guest to have. A general rule is to allow about 24–26 inches of space per person. For example, a 72-inch table usually seats 6 comfortably. Don’t forget to factor in the chair width and any arms if you’re using armchairs.
Most dining chairs have a seat height of 18–20 inches, which pairs well with standard dining tables that are 28–30 inches high. Always aim for about 10–12 inches of clearance between the seat and the underside of the table for comfortable legroom.
Not at all! Mixing styles can create a more curated, personal look. Just keep the seat height and general scale consistent so everyone stays comfortable at the table. Personally, I use wing back chairs for the side with more classic Parsons style wood chairs at the heads of table.
And if you’re looking for a splurge, I adore these Woven Side Chairs which are neutral but also create quite the interior design impact!
Final Thoughts on Dining Room Chairs
I hop this post is helpful in choosing dining room chairs for your home. They can be a great, relatively affordable way to add some design through texture, contrast, and shape. Use these tips to get the sizing and proportion right and you’re all set!
Looking for other types of chairs? Check out my roundup of Low Profile Accent Chairs which offer a great solution for smalls spaces or open concept living areas.
