For the cheapest side by side refrigerators, buyers typically see price ranges driven by capacity, finish, and basic features. This article lays out the actual cost, pricing ranges, and practical ways to budget for a budget SS refrigerator. The focus is on cost and price transparency to help shoppers compare quotes with confidence.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Product price (new, base model) | $899 | $1,199 | $1,599 | Standard 20–22 cu ft, basic frost-free, single-evaporator |
| Delivery | $0 | $79 | $199 | Most retailers charge standard-fee delivery |
| Setup/installation | $0 | $50 | $150 | Disconnect/reconnect, leveling, door alignment |
| Disposal or haul-away | $0 | $25 | $75 | Often optional |
| Extended warranty | $40 | $80 | $180 | Optional on budget models |
What Buyers Typically Pay for the Lowest Price Side by Side Refrigerator
Cost ranges commonly fall between $900 and $1,600 for a new budget side by side with standard features. The per-unit price is often listed as the product price, while delivery and setup add modest extras. Assumptions: a 20–22 cu ft capacity, standard energy star rating, basic stainless or white finish, regional labor under typical suburban rates.
Major Cost Components in a Budget Side by Side Quote
When buyers review quotes, four to six cost components dominate the total. Breakouts below show the practical impact of each category on a typical low-cost SS refrigerator purchase.
| Cost Component | Typical Range | Per-Unit Basis | Notes | Assumptions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Product price | $899–$1,599 | n/a | Base model, standard features | 20–22 cu ft, frost-free, manual crisper |
| Delivery | $0–$199 | n/a | Regional varies with distance | Ground-level or multi-story buildings affect cost |
| Installation/Setup | $0–$150 | $50–$150 | Leveling, water line check (if applicable) | Plumbing kit not included |
| Disposal | $0–$75 | $25–$75 | Haul-away of old fridge | Local disposal rules apply |
| Warranty/Service | $0–$180 | $40–$80 | Limited warranty coverage | Includes parts/l labor for the term |
| Taxes/Fees | $0–$120 | $0–$120 | Sales tax varies by state | Assumes standard state tax rate |
Key Variables That Change the Final Price for Budget Side by Side Models
Prices shift based on several concrete factors. System capacity and finish choice are the strongest drivers, followed by energy features and regional delivery demands. For example, a 20 cu ft model with basic white finish typically costs less than a 22 cu ft model with stainless steel doors. Assumptions: Midwest labor rates, standard materials, normal access.
- Capacity and layout: Larger interiors and extra-door accessories can increase product price by $100–$400.
- Finish and features: Stainless steel or fingerprint-resistant finishes add roughly $50–$150 versus basic white.
- Delivery distance: In-city delivery is often cheaper or included; outlying regions add $50–$100.
- Energy rating: Basic frost-free may be $0–$50 more than non-ENERGY STAR equivalents; higher efficiency tiers can add $100–$200.
Practical Ways to Reduce the Price Without Sacrificing Core Use
To keep costs low, focus on scope and material choices. Consider base configurations, standard finishes, and bundled delivery where available. Scheduling during off-peak times may lower fees. Evaluate replacements versus minor repairs for any existing fridge to avoid unnecessary upgrades.
- Choose standard white or black finishes over stainless steel.
- Limit optional features like water dispensers or ice makers in the initial purchase.
- Coordinate delivery with other heavy items to reduce trip charges.
- Bundle disposal with purchase if offered by the retailer.
Cost differences by region can be meaningful. In the Southeast, a base model may be about 5–10% cheaper than in the Northeast due to shipping and labor. Expect price deltas of 0% to 15% depending on urban density and local taxes. Assumptions: urban markets have higher delivery costs, rural markets may see lower list prices.
Installation time is typically short, around 1–2 hours including setup and basic leveling. Labor charges usually run $40–$80 per hour, with flat setup fees in some markets. Scheduling constraints can affect start times and potentially rush fees if the appliance is out of stock.
Evaluating price per cubic foot helps normalize differences between models. A 20 cu ft base model might cost about $45–$80 per cu ft, while a 22 cu ft variant could land in the $50–$85 per cu ft range depending on finish and features. Per-unit pricing clarifies value when features differ.
Two common drivers are door style and water/ice features. A basic model without ice maker or external dispenser remains cheapest, whereas adding dispensers and auto-defrost can push the price upward by $100–$250. Regional delivery surcharges and extended warranties also push total above the base price.
Real-world quotes illustrate typical ranges. Scenario A includes base white 20 cu ft, standard delivery, and no disposal fee. Scenario B adds stainless finish, ice maker, and in-home delivery. Scenario C includes extended warranty and disposal. Prices evolve with finish, features, and service level.
| Scenario | Product Price | Delivery | Install | Disposal | Warranty | Estimated Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scenario A | $999 | $79 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $1,078 |
| Scenario B | $1,299 | $99 | $60 | $25 | $60 | $1,543 |
| Scenario C | $1,199 | $89 | $0 | $45 | $120 | $1,453 |
Budget buyers should expect the total to include product price, modest delivery, and basic setup. Planning around promotional periods and bundled services often yields the best bottom line. Always verify whether disposal or extended warranty is optional in the final quote.