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Best Mattresses Under $1,000

We did the research, and our in-depth testing found these are the best mattresses under $1,000 for comfort, quality, and value.

  • We chose the Nectar Classic Memory Foam as the Overall Best Mattress Under $1,000 because it earned our highest testing score and is the lowest-priced option on our list, priced at $649 for a queen.
  • The best mattresses under $1,000 range $649–$999 for a queen size before any discounts or taxes. Most mattress brands we recommend offer warranties and free shipping in the contiguous United States.
  • Buying directly from the brand can help lower mattress costs, and most offer a trial period to try the mattress in your home to make sure it’s right for you.

NCOA supports everyone’s right to age well. So we take the time to research, test, and recommend products that can help you live a healthier life. We’ve spent more than 2,500 hours researching and testing mattresses to give you the most accurate product reviews. To find the best mattresses, we: 

  • Consulted with sleep specialists like doctors, occupational therapists, and physical therapists for guidance on choosing the best mattress
  • Put more than 130 models through a series of 19 different tests at our in-house lab
  • Mystery-shopped more than 40 brands
  • Surveyed more than 2,000 older adults on their sleep quality
  • Interviewed experts on the importance of good sleep for older adults
  • Worked with older adult testers to evaluate mattresses and get their opinion
  • Read thousands of verified customer reviews

We’re constantly testing new mattresses and sleep products to give you the most accurate and up-to-date recommendations. Read more about our mattress review methodology.

When building a budget, few of us plan to spend thousands of dollars on a mattress, yet we still want to feel like we're sleeping in luxury. Finding that combination isn’t impossible. Mattresses often have high markups, making it easy to overpay. “In many cases, you’re paying for incidentals like brand name and advertising,” said Andy Bloom, owner of Home Mattress Center in Wilmington and Newark, Delaware. But newer mattress companies are getting rid of markups by selling directly to consumers, making it easier to find the best mattresses at lower prices. After testing many options, these brands are our picks for the best mattresses under $1,000.

We tested mattresses for durability, comfort, and support. We looked closely at materials, how each mattress felt for different sleepers, and how it held up during testing. We also considered overall value, brand trust, and trial periods and warranties. Our top pick, the Nectar Memory Foam mattress, earned the highest overall testing score of any mattress we tested, including pricier options. We identified several others that show mattresses under $1,000 can still deliver great sleep and long-lasting quality.

Our Top Pick

Nectar Classic Memory Foam

The Nectar Classic Memory Foam mattress
  • Lowest priced mattress on this list with the highest testing score
  • Offers a balanced feel and gentle support
  • Includes a 365-night trial and limited lifetime warranty

Dream Cloud Classic Hybrid

The DreamCloud Classic Hybrid mattress
  • Lowest-priced hybrid in the roundup
  • Mix of contouring foam and bouncy coils for better support and movement
  • Strong performance in motion isolation, pressure relief, and cooling

Leesa Original

The Leesa Original memory foam mattress
  • Earned a perfect 5/5 for side and back pressure relief
  • Supportive foam that contours without sinking
  • Rated a high 4/5 for cooling, rare in a memory foam mattress

Best mattresses under $1,000

Comparing the best mattresses under $1,000

Comparison Features
Score (out of 10)

9.9

9

8.3

8.5

9

Best for

Overall

Hybrid

Memory foam

Firmness

Back pain

Brand firmness rating

6.5

6.5

5–7

7.1

5

Trial period (nights)

365

365

120

120

365

icon of three people

Understanding accessibility and pain relief scores

Based on our testing, surveys, and focus groups with older adults, we created these two scores: 

  • Accessibility score: The higher the score, the easier it is to get in and out of the bed and change positions. 
  • Pain relief score: The higher the score, the more likely it can help relieve pain.

Top features of the best mattresses under $1,000

Nectar Classic Memory Foam: Best Overall Mattress Under $1,000

We chose the Nectar Memory Foam as the Best Overall Mattress Under $1,000 because it delivers premium comfort and quality (including the top overall score for our testing) at an incredibly reasonable price. At $649 for a queen-size, this mattress is the lowest-priced on our list.

Nectar Classic Memory Foam

Best Overall
The Nectar Classic Memory Foam mattress
  • Gel-infused memory foam helps reduce heat
  • Perfect 5/5 motion isolation for couples
  • Our pain relief score: 4.3/5
  • Accessibility score: 4.3/5
  • Mattress type: Memory foam
  • Brand’s firmness rating: 6.5/10

Pros

  • Great durability and support for the price
  • Very strong motion isolation
  • Supportive in multiple sleep positions

Cons

  • Cover is not removable
  • Might feel too firm for soft-mattress lovers
  • White-glove delivery costs extra

Why we chose the Nectar Memory Foam as the Best Overall Mattress Under $1,000

We chose the Nectar Memory Foam as the Best Overall Mattress Under $1,000 because it offers excellent value, comfort, and support at nearly half the price of comparable mattresses. In our testing, it outperformed most other mattresses and earned the top overall score of 9.9/10. It was also our pick for the best memory foam mattress

You might expect a mattress that excels in every test category to come with a high cost, especially one with a lifetime warranty and one of the longest trial periods in the industry. But the Nectar Memory Foam mattress costs less than $700 for a queen-size, making it the lowest-priced mattress on our list. White-glove delivery does cost extra ($199), but adding that option still makes the total cost of this mattress below $1,000.

Our testing experience with the Nectar Memory Foam

During testing, we found that the Nectar Memory Foam has the support and durability you’d expect from a higher-priced mattress. In fact, in several categories, our testers rated the Nectar Memory Foam mattress more highly than the costlier Nectar Premier Memory Foam mattress.

Testers were especially impressed with the stability of this memory foam mattress, rating it 4/5 for edge support. While sitting on the edge, Chris, a 66-year-old tester with a higher weight, said that he felt “pretty firm and level,” and didn’t need to use his hands to stand up.

A man sits on the edge of the Nectar Classic Memory Foam mattress
Our tester found the edge support on the Nectar Classic Memory Foam mattress to be as good as that of more expensive models.

Chris, who typically sleeps on his back, also noted that the mattress was supportive regardless of his position. “It’s pretty responsive for memory foam,” he said. “It has a good bounce.” Other testers appreciated that they didn’t sink too deeply into the foam.

A man lies on his side on the Nectar Classic Memory Foam mattress
Our tester found support no matter what position he slept in on the Nectar Memory Foam mattress.

Memory foam tends to excel at limiting motion transfer, and the Nectar Classic was no exception. When someone got in and out of the bed while our tester was lying on the other side, they said, “If I were asleep, there’s not a chance this would wake me up.” The limited motion transfer makes the Nectar a great option for couples or light sleepers.

All our testers found the Nectar Memory Foam mattress offered a great value for the money. They awarded it some of the highest possible scores for support, cooling, and quality, making it the best budget mattress we tested. 

Who is the Nectar Memory Foam right for?

The Nectar Memory Foam is a great match for those looking for the Best Mattress Under $1,000 who don’t want to sacrifice comfort or support. Combination sleepers, side sleepers, and those who want pressure relief will appreciate its medium-firm feel. It’s also a good fit for hot sleepers, couples, and anyone who needs strong edge support to make getting in and out of bed easier.

I may love it if I:
Sleep with a partnerYes
Have chronic painYes
Feel hot at nightYes
Have mobility concernsYes
Sleep in the following positionsSide, back, stomach

The Nectar customer experience

  • Trial period: 365 nights
  • Shipping: Free white-glove delivery
  • Warranty: Limited lifetime

Customer service

You can reach Nectar customer service by:

Payment options

Payment options for Nectar include American Express, MasterCard, Visa, Discover, Google Play, PayPal, and Amazon Pay. Nectar offers financing through Affirm and Splitit and a lease-to-own option through Acima.

Military members, first responders, and health care professionals can get an extra 5% discount.

DreamCloud Classic Hybrid: Best Hybrid Mattress Under $1,000

We chose the DreamCloud Classic Hybrid as the Best Hybrid Mattress Under $1,000 because it delivers the comfort and support of a hybrid bed at a reasonable price. At $699 for a queen-size, it stands out as one of the best hybrid beds, performing well in nearly all of our testing.

Dream Cloud Classic Hybrid

Best Hybrid
The DreamCloud Classic Hybrid mattress
  • 365-night sleep trial and lifetime warranty
  • Optional white-glove delivery for $199
  • Our pain relief score: 3.9/5
  • Accessibility score: 3.9/6
  • Mattress type: Hybrid
  • Brand’s firmness rating: 6.5

Pros

  • Excellent price for a hybrid
  • Longest trial period in the industry
  • Responsive and easy to move around on

Cons

  • Weak edge support
  • Some motion transfer from coils
  • Not ideal for those who need extra edge stability

Why we chose the DreamCloud Classic Hybrid as the Best Hybrid Mattress Under $1,000

We selected the DreamCloud Classic Hybrid as the Best Hybrid Mattress Under $1,000. We were impressed by the bed’s performance across our testing, with strong scores in motion isolation, bounce, pressure relief, and cooling. 

DreamCloud uses a bed-in-a-box model to keep costs down without sacrificing the responsive support of a hybrid mattress. As discussed in our DreamCloud mattress review, shipping a mattress in a box reduces storage and other overhead costs. That allows DreamCloud to sell quality mattresses at a lower price than its competitors. At $699 for a queen-size, this was the lowest-priced hybrid mattress we tried.

We like that DreamCloud offers one of the longest trial periods in the industry and a lifetime warranty. Many bed-in-a-box companies don’t offer in-room setup and old mattress removal (white-glove delivery), but DreamCloud does for an additional fee. The DreamCloud earned a score of 4/5 or higher on all our tests, except edge support. If edge support isn’t a priority for you, we recommend this as the best hybrid mattress under $1,000.

Our testing experience with the DreamCloud Classic Hybrid 

Our testers said the DreamCloud Hybrid felt much nicer than expected for a mattress in this price range, compared with other mattresses they’ve tested. They liked that the DreamCloud uses quality materials. “It doesn’t scream cheap,” said one tester. She noted that the mattress top felt “quilted with a silky feel,” not like run-of-the-mill polyester. 

A woman touches the quilted top of the DreamCloud Hybrid mattress
Testers appreciated the DreamCloud Hybrid mattress’s quilted top for its luxurious, soft, and silky feel.

Testers were also quick to praise the DreamCloud Classic's responsive support, which combines contouring foam and bouncy coils. “It will bounce right back when I place my hand down on it,” said Ruth, a 70-year-old stomach sleeper. She added that the quality helped with movement on the mattress. “It was easy to switch positions,” she said. “I didn’t feel like the mattress was fighting me in any way.”

Ruth felt supported when lying in her preferred position on her stomach, even saying, “I don’t have any pressure on my back like I normally do.” She also noticed the pressure relief when lying on her back. “I feel very nice on my back,” she said. “I don’t have any pressure at all, and it’s supporting my back very nicely. I feel like I’m sitting on a cloud. The name checks out!” 

A woman lies on her back on the DreamCloud Hybrid mattress
Testers noted how comfortable and supportive the DreamCloud Hybrid mattress felt when lying on their backs.

Testers did critique the edge support of this mattress, which was the one area of our testing where it did not perform above average. “The mattress feels like it collapses when sitting on the edge of the bed,” Ruth said. “If I lean too far forward, I feel like my bottom is sliding off.” This could be a problem for people with mobility issues or who are afraid of falls. Sleepers with these concerns may want to consider another mattress from our roundup with stronger edge support, like the Leesa Original.

Overall, testers were happy with the value the DreamCloud Classic Hybrid delivers. With cooling, motion isolation, and a responsive hybrid feel, it earned its place among our best mattresses under $1,000.

Who is the DreamCloud Classic Hybrid right for?

The DreamCloud Classic Hybrid might be right for shoppers seeking responsive hybrid support at a good price. It could also be a good choice for those who prefer a cool mattress. But if you’re looking for strong edge support, you may want to consider another mattress.

I may love it if I:
Sleep with a partnerYes
Have chronic painYes
Feel hot at nightYes
Have mobility concernsNo
Sleep in the following positionsSide, back, stomach

The DreamCloud customer experience

  • Trial period: 365 nights
  • Shipping: Free 
  • Warranty: Limited lifetime

Customer service

You can reach DreamCloud customer service by:

Payment options

You can pay for your DreamCloud mattress using American Express, MasterCard, Visa, Discover, PayPal, Google Pay, and Amazon Pay. DreamCloud has also partnered with Affirm, PayPal Credit, Splitit, and Acima to provide financing options.

DreamCloud offers an extra 5% off the best on-site offer to military members and their dependents, health care professionals, and first responders. DreamCloud uses SheerID to verify your status.

Leesa Original: Best Memory Foam Mattress Under $1,000

We chose the Leesa Original as the Best Memory Foam Mattress Under $1,000 because it stood out in our testing for its great quality and support. We liked its strong support for back and side sleepers, cooling qualities, and stable edges.

Leesa Original

Best Memory Foam
The Leesa Original memory foam mattress
  • Three-layer all-memory foam design
  • Cooling performance rated 4/5
  • Strong pressure relief for back and side sleepers
  • Our pain relief score: 4/5
  • Accessibility score: 3.5/5
  • Mattress type: Memory foam
  • Brand’s firmness rating: 5–7

Pros

  • Plush comfort feel
  • Great pressure relief, especially for the back and side
  • Lifetime warranty and free shipping
  • Resists sinking while staying supportive

Cons

  • May be uncomfortable for stomach sleepers
  • Not supportive enough for those with a higher weight
  • Poor motion isolation may awaken couples

Why we chose the Leesa Original as the Best Memory Foam Mattress Under $1,000

We selected the Leesa Original as the Best Memory Foam Mattress Under $1,000 for its strong pressure relief and solid support. The Leesa Original also had some of the best support for back and side sleepers of any mattress we tested, earning a 4.5/5 rating for pressure relief. Priced at $999 for a queen, with free shipping, a lifetime warranty, and optional white-glove delivery (for a price less than many competitors), this memory foam mattress deserves its place as one of our top mattresses under $1,000.

Our testing experience with the Leesa Original

Our testers were impressed by the Leesa Original's support, while also rating the pressure relief a perfect 5/5 when lying on their back or side. “I feel like the pressure is even and the mattress is hugging my body,” said Sheila, a 70-year-old combination sleeper. “My spine is well aligned, and I feel very comfortable overall. I don’t have any pressure points anywhere.” But some testers reported feeling less supported when lying on their stomachs.

Testers noted that although the mattress felt comfortable and soft, it didn’t envelop them as some memory foam mattresses do. “This mattress does a good job of not having the ‘stuck’ feeling like you normally see with memory foam beds,” Sheila said. “I don’t feel like I am sinking too much. There is a good balance of sinkage and support for my body weight.” 

A woman lies on her side on the Leesa Original Memory Foam mattress
Testers liked that they felt supported, but not trapped, by the memory foam of the Leesa Original.

This may be partially due to the firmness of this memory foam mattress. To our testers, it felt firmer than advertised, more like a 7.5 than the brand’s stated 5–7 range. They noted that “the memory foam is not super responsive” and lacks bounce, making getting in and out of bed or switching positions more of an effort than on a bouncier hybrid mattress. 

Testers praised the plush feel of the Leesa Original, which was surprisingly luxe for a mattress under $1,000. “The mattress has a very soft, jersey-like feel with the knit cover,” said Sheila. “It’s really comfortable alone, I almost wouldn’t want sheets on it!”

A woman lies on her side on the edge of the Leesa Original Memory Foam mattress
Sheila, one of our testers, was a big fan of the high-end feel of the Leesa Original’s soft, jersey-like cover.

They also rated it highly for cooling and edge support, two areas where memory foam typically struggles. Our testers’ biggest complaint about the Leesa Original was that it did a poor job of minimizing motion between partners. This may make it not the best option for light sleepers sharing a bed. 

Overall, our team felt the Leesa Original outperformed many higher-priced foam mattresses. With steady cooling, reliable pressure relief, and a supportive feel, it remains a smart choice for shoppers seeking a more budget-friendly memory foam mattress. 

Who is the Leesa Original right for?

If you’re looking for the best $1,000 memory foam mattress that balances comfort and price, the Leesa Original is a great choice. It works best for back and side sleepers who want even pressure relief, or people who prefer a cool mattress. It’s less ideal for couples.

I may love it if I:
Sleep with a partnerNo
Have chronic painYes
Feel hot at nightYes
Have mobility concernsYes
Sleep in the following positionsSide, back, stomach

The Leesa customer experience

  • Trial period: 120 nights
  • Shipping: Free
  • Warranty: Limited lifetime

Customer service

You can reach Leesa customer service by:

  • Phone: Call 844-335-3372, available Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET, and Saturday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET
  • Text: Text 877-548-5145, available Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET, and Saturday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET
  • Chat: Automated chat via the bottom left corner of the website, available 24/7. Live chat with a representative available Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET, and Saturday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET
  • Email: support@leesa.com 
  • Submit a contact form on the website

Payment options 

  • Credit card payment options include Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover. Other options include Shop Pay, Amazon Pay, Venmo, and PayPal. Leesa offers financing through Affirm and PayPal Credit. 
  • The company currently offers $50 off for active and retired military members and their family members, as well as teachers, students, medical providers, nurses, and first responders.

Bear Original: Best Firm Mattress Under $1,000

We chose the Bear Original as the Best Firm Mattress Under $1,000 because it delivers a truly firm feel at a lower price. For sleepers who want a mattress that feels supportive and resists sinking, this memory foam mattress stands out for its support and durability.

Bear Original

Best Firm
The Bear Original Memory Foam mattress
  • Firm feel is good for spinal support and alignment
  • Strong motion isolation for couples
  • Excellent cooling technology for hot sleepers
  • Our pain relief score: 3.4/5
  • Accessibility score: 3.5/5
  • Mattress type: Memory foam
  • Brand’s firmness rating: 7.1/10

Pros

  • Superior cooling technology
  • Good motion isolation for shared beds
  • Compatible with adjustable beds

Cons

  • Back sleepers may want more support
  • Could be too firm for lighter-weight sleepers or those who like a soft mattress
  • Edge support could be stronger

Why we chose the Bear Original as the Best Firm Mattress Under $1,000

We chose the Bear Original as our Best Firm Mattress Under $1,000 because it offers good support and doesn’t sink like some memory foam models. The Bear Original is rated 7.1/10 on the firmness scale, which is fairly high for a memory foam mattress. Our testers thought it felt even firmer, more like 9/10. It can be hard to find a mattress this firm and durable at this price point, but the Bear Original costs $998 for a queen. 

The Bear Original earned a perfect 5/5 score for temperature control in our tests, which is one reason we included it on our list of the best cooling mattresses. Memory foam tends to trap heat. But the Bear Original uses high-end cooling technology that usually comes with a higher price. Bear manufactures its mattresses in the United States in a fiberglass-free factory, and its models are compatible with a range of adjustable bases. It was also effective at motion isolation, making it one of the best mattresses for couples who want to limit the movement they feel from their partner. 

Our testing experience with the Bear Original 

During testing, the Bear Original felt immediately firmer than most foam mattresses in this price category. Our testers rated its firmness 9/10, though the brand rates it 7.1/10. “It feels forgiving while being firm,” said Chris, a 66-year-old higher-weight back sleeper. “It’s definitely holding me up, and it has the support, but it’s not too hard. It’s firm but comfortable. The top layer feels like it’s giving me some comfort, and then the bottom layer is firmer. It’s a nice combination.”

The high level of firmness helped with pressure relief and stability. “I'm not feeling any pressure buildup in any specific area,” said Chris. “My hips and spine feel pretty much aligned, and my body feels equally supported.” This was the case when lying on his side and back, and he also commented that although he does not usually sleep on his stomach, “dedicated stomach sleepers might get value from this mattress.”

A man lies face down on the Bear Original Memory Foam mattress
Chris, one of our testers, said that although he doesn’t usually sleep on his stomach, he could see a case for it on the Bear Original.

The Bear Original’s firmness also made it feel stable during movement. “I feel more on top of the mattress,” said Chris. “I don’t feel an incline or decline or anything. I don’t feel like I’m going to roll off. I feel really stable.” 

A heat gun reading from the Bear Original memory foam mattress
The Bear Original memory foam mattress had the smallest temperature increase of any mattress we tested.

While firmness was the star, the Bear Original performed well in other areas, too. It earned a perfect 5/5 score for cooling, with the smallest temperature increase of any mattress we tested, making it a good choice for hot sleepers. It also earned strong scores for motion isolation. One drawback testers noted: sitting on the mattress edge didn’t feel as secure as lying down. Overall, the Bear Original offers great value for the money for anyone who prefers a firm mattress.

Who is the Bear Original right for?

The Bear Original could be a great choice for higher-weight sleepers or those seeking a mattress that remains supportive across multiple positions. If you prefer a softer, more cushioned feel, this model may be too firm.

I may love it if I:
Sleep with a partnerYes
Have chronic painNo
Feel hot at nightYes
Have mobility concernsYes
Sleep in the following positionsSide, stomach, back

The Bear customer experience

  • Trial period: 120 nights
  • Shipping: Free
  • Warranty: Limited lifetime

Customer service

You can reach Bear customer service by:

  • Phone: Call 844-311-0035, available Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET
  • Email: support@bearmattress.com
  • Chat: Live chat via the bottom right corner of the website, available Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET

Payment options

Bear accepts MasterCard, Visa, American Express, Discover, PayPal, Venmo, and Google Pay. Financing is available through Affirm and ShopPay.

The brand currently offers a 40% discount for military members, first responders, law enforcement, health care workers, and teachers. This discount can’t be combined with other promotional codes.

Silk & Snow Hybrid: Best Mattress Under $1,000 for Back Pain

We chose the Silk & Snow Hybrid as the Best Mattress Under $1,000 for Back Pain because it delivers strong back support and pressure relief at $950 for a queen. In our tests, it earned top scores for back pain and pressure relief, performing as well as or better than more expensive beds.

Silk & Snow Hybrid

Best for Back Pain
The Silk & Snow Hybrid mattress
  • Superior pain and pressure relief for the back
  • Cooling comfort for hot sleepers
  • Great motion isolation
  • Our pain relief score: 4.1/5
  • Accessibility score: 3.9/5
  • Mattress type: Hybrid
  • Brand’s firmness rating: 5

Pros

  • Exceptional back support
  • Comfort system effectively isolates motion
  • Good at cooling for hot sleepers

Cons

  • Not as responsive as some hybrid mattresses
  • Cover is not removable 
  • No white-glove delivery option

Why we chose the Silk & Snow Hybrid as the Best Mattress Under $1,000 for Back Pain

We selected the Silk & Snow Hybrid as the Best Mattress Under $1,000 for Back Pain because it keeps the spine supported while relieving lower back pressure. The mattress excelled in our tests, earning 4.5/5 for back pressure relief and 4.1/5 for back pain relief. 

This hybrid mattress features an 8-inch pocket coil base with zoned support for the low back. It is surrounded by a dense foam border that reinforces the edges and prevents sagging. On top, two inches of cooling, pressure-relieving foam contour to support the spine’s natural curves, ensuring proper spinal alignment. Finding a mattress with this level of back comfort and support at such a reasonable price was a pleasant surprise for our testers. 

Our testing experience with the Silk & Snow Hybrid

Our testers said this mattress looked more expensive than it is. They noted the nice quilted pattern on the antimicrobial mattress topper and the soft, plush feel. Testers also noted that the mattress seams were strong and the stitching was durable.

Testers thought this mattress was well-designed, with individually wrapped coils surrounded by dense foam. “You couldn’t see the springs inside when we cut the mattress open,” said one tester. The foam helps stabilize the mattress edges when our testers sat or lay down near them, making the entire mattress surface usable. Our testers found this impressive for a mattress priced under $1,000.

The Silk & Snow hybrid mattress with a hole cut into the outside fabric, showing a foam interior
Typically, when we cut open a hybrid mattress, we can see the springs inside it. But the Silk & Snow hybrid uses foam to help stabilize the mattress’s edges, a feature that impressed our team.

The Silk & Snow hybrid mattress has zoned lower back support built into its spring base, which can be useful for older adults who experience back pain. “I feel pretty supported lying down on this mattress,” one of our testers said. “I feel really good in the back sleeping position. It is soft enough that it goes up to the curve of my spine, but I don’t feel like I am sunk down inside the mattress.” Testers gave this mattress a 4.5/5 for back pressure relief, and we calculated a high score of 4.1/5 for back pain relief. If you’re interested in more pain relief options, check out our recommendations for the best mattresses for back pain

The individually wrapped coils helped keep the mattress from feeling too bouncy and earned it a 4/5 for motion isolation, making it a good choice for couples. Plus, the lack of bounce didn’t make it more difficult to move around on. “I feel like switching positions is pretty easy overall,” one tester said.

The Silk & Snow Hybrid also performed above average in temperature control, earning a 4/5 rating. “I didn’t really notice it warming up much while I was lying on it,” said a tester. “It all feels about the same, nice and cool.”

A woman sleeping on her side on the Silk & Snow hybrid mattress.
Our testers felt the Silk & Snow hybrid mattress stayed cool while they rested on it, making it extra comfortable for those who sleep hot.

A drawback of the Silk & Snow hybrid mattress is that it is the only mattress on this list without a lifetime warranty. The brand only offers a 15-year guarantee. But it does have a 365-night trial period, one of the longest, so you can test the feel before fully committing.

Who is the Silk & Snow Hybrid right for?

This mattress is a great choice for back sleepers or people with back pain who want support without overspending. The motion isolation works well for couples, and the mattress stays cool for sleepers who run hot.  

I may love it if I:
Sleep with a partnerYes
Have chronic painYes
Feel hot at nightYes
Have mobility concernsYes
Sleep in the following positionsSide, back, stomach

The Silk & Snow customer experience

  • Trial period: 365 nights
  • Shipping: Free
  • Warranty: 15 years

Customer service

You can contact Silk & Snow customer service by:

Payment options 

Silk & Snow accepts most major credit cards and PayPal. They offer financing through PayPal Pay Later.

Our process testing the best mattresses under $1,000

Our team has spent thousands of hours researching and testing mattresses so you can feel confident in our reviews. For this roundup, we personally tested 30 mattresses identified through our research to offer great value. Each mattress was put through a rigorous testing process with older adults to ensure we have real-world data about how they perform. If you’d like to see even more options, read our review of the best mattresses for seniors.  

To determine the best mattresses under $1,000, we didn’t just focus on price. Even budget beds should feel comfortable, supportive, and well-made, working for real people with different body types and sleep needs. Here are some of the features we took into consideration when making our selections:

Price

The price of a mattress can vary a lot depending on its size, materials, and brand, among other factors. We looked at mattresses with an MSRP of $1,000 or less for a queen size, but also took into consideration the added value of warranties, shipping, trial periods, and other factors. 

Firmness

Research has found that most people benefit from a medium-firm mattress (between 5–7 out of 10 on a firmness scale).1 Firmness can feel different from person to person. Body weight, sleep style, and comfort needs all play a role. We considered both the brand firmness rating and how firm the mattresses felt to our older adult testers. This helped us see which budget mattresses felt supportive without being too hard or too soft.

Pressure relief

To measure pressure relief, testers lie on each mattress with a pressure mat underneath. The mat has sensors that show areas of pressure buildup on a map. Blue and green mean low pressure, which is what we want to see in key areas like the shoulders, hips, and knees. We looked for good pressure relief readings for all sleeping positions.

Pain relief

A good night’s sleep can be harder to get as pain becomes more common with age.2 It was important to ensure that even the lowest-priced mattresses on our list earned high pain-relief scores. We used a special scoring method that factored in firmness, pressure relief, and support to determine how well each mattress eased pain. If you’re interested in more pain relief options, read our review of the best mattresses for sciatica.  

Sleeping position

You may look for different features in a mattress if you sleep mostly on your back, side, or stomach, or in a combination of positions. We had older adults test the mattresses in each body position. This helped us fairly judge which top mattresses under $1,000 worked best across sleep styles.

Body weight

Not every mattress supports every body type. Some of the best $1,000 mattress picks are made to better handle higher weights, which can also help couples. We noted the body weight of each tester so you can see how the mattress may work for someone with a body type similar to yours. Read which models our testers recommend as the best mattresses for heavy people

Trial period and warranty

The mattress you buy should come from a brand you can trust. We looked for the best mattresses under $1,000 that still offer long trial periods and solid warranties. A good trial lets you test the model at home and return it if it’s not right.

Are mattresses under $1,000 good quality?

Yes, you can find many mattresses under $1,000 that are good quality. Many brands have lowered mattress prices by selling directly to consumers and using a “bed in a box” model, in which mattresses are compressed for shipping. This can save overhead and other costs. 

Often, a portion of a mattress's cost is due to the brand name. Well-known brands pay for advertising, licensing, and more. Many of the best mattresses under $1,000 can reduce those costs while still offering quality products with features such as zoned support, cooling technology, and long warranties.

How to choose the best budget mattress

Here’s what you can realistically expect when shopping for a mattress under $1,000, and how to choose the right one for you. 

  • Consider the materials and what you may need: Foam mattresses are great for pressure relief and quiet sleep. Hybrids add bounce, airflow, and support. Latex beds usually cost more and are rare in this price range.
  • Choose a firmness: “I can’t tell you how many people say they want a firm or a plush bed and end up going with the complete opposite,” Bloom said. The weight on the bed makes a difference as well. Higher-weight sleepers tend to feel more supported on firmer mattresses.
  • Know how you sleep: If you typically sleep on your stomach, you may need a firmer mattress than someone who sleeps on their back. If you change positions frequently, you may want a more responsive mattress to support you as you move, or one with good motion isolation if you sleep with a partner. 
  • Pick your priorities: The more features a mattress has, the higher the price, said Bloom. So choose one or two that are most important to you, and spend your budget accordingly. If sleeping cool is a priority, for instance, look for a mattress with great temperature control. “You don’t always feel the difference between a $1,000 bed and a $2,000 bed,” said Bloom. So why spend more money when it’s not helping you sleep better?
  • Wait for a good sale: “You can typically save between 20–50% off regular prices during sale cycles,” Bloom said. “The biggest ones happen during Presidents Day Weekend (February), Memorial Day (late May), Labor Day (early September), July 4, and Black Friday/Cyber Monday (November).
  • Strike a bargain: “You can always negotiate a little bit,” Bloom said. “If you ask for something reasonable, like free delivery or pillows, you’ll probably get it.”

What to expect from a mattress under $1,000

Many of the best mattresses under $1,000 have the same features as more expensive mattresses. They just may not have all of them. 

“In most cases, with a high-end mattress, you’re getting a heavier coil count, more coils, or an additional layer of nano or microcoils,” said Bloom. Most industry-standard mattresses will have around an 800-coil count, according to Bloom. You may also expect to pay a little more for zoned support, which provides extra targeted pressure relief in specific areas. Springs are more durable than foam over the long term, so hybrids tend to be slightly more expensive than foam models. 

Luxury mattresses add layers of foam or other materials, so they are often higher than standard mattresses and may require deep-pocket sheets. They can also be made from higher-end natural materials such as alpaca, wool, or cashmere. The beds on this list are as durable and comfortable as pricier options, but pricier mattresses may retain their feel longer. With proper care and a good mattress topper, though, even a budget mattress can last you for years.

How much do the best mattresses under $1,000 cost?

The best mattresses under $1,000 cost between $649–$999 for a queen size before any discounts or taxes. Most mattress brands offer a warranty and free shipping in the contiguous United States. 

Comparison Features

Nectar Memory Foam

The Nectar Classic Memory Foam mattress

DreaCloud Classic Hybrid

The DreamCloud Classic Hybrid mattress

Leesa Original

The Leesa Original memory foam mattress

Bear Original

The Bear Original Memory Foam mattress

Silk & Snow Hybrid

The Silk & Snow Hybrid mattress
Cost for a queen

$649

$699

$999

$998

$950

Shipping costs

Free

Free

Free

Free

Free

White glove delivery available?*

Yes, $199

Yes, for $199

Yes, $179

Yes, for $175

No

Warranty length

Limited lifetime

Limited lifetime

Limited lifetime

Limited lifetime

Limited lifetime

Return fees

None

None

None

None

None

*Setup of new mattress and disposal of old mattress

How prices change throughout the year: Mattress sales calendar

Because mattress markup is high (the price you pay can be two to three times what it costs to make), Bloom said there is usually some flexibility in pricing. Sales are a good way to save, and most brands have them several times a year. You can typically save 20–50% off regular prices. 

The biggest sales happen during the following times:

  • Presidents Day Weekend (February) 
  • Memorial Day (late May) 
  • Independence Day (early July)
  • Labor Day (early September) 
  • Black Friday/Cyber Monday (November)

Bloom also encouraged us to ask for extras, like a small additional discount, free shipping, or accessories like pillows or a mattress topper. “If you ask for something reasonable,” he said, “you’ll probably get it.”

Frequently asked questions

How long will a mattress under $1,000 last?

Most mattresses under $1,000 will last 8–10 years, depending on factors such as use and care.

Is foam or a hybrid better on a budget?

You can find foam and hybrid mattresses at all price points, including under $1,000. It’s best to identify the style you prefer and then look for a model that fits your budget. 

Do lower-priced mattresses sleep hot?

Many lower-priced mattresses include some kind of cooling foam or technology.

Can heavier sleepers use a budget mattress?

Yes, people with higher body weight or couples with higher combined weight can find mattresses under $1,000 that are designed to support and distribute heavier loads. 

Questions? Email us at reviewsteam@ncoa.org.

Sources

  1. Hu X., et al. The Effect of Mattress Firmness on Sleep Architecture and PSG Characteristics. Nature and Science of Sleep. May 9, 2025. Found on the internet at https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12071755/
  2. Morelhão P.K., et al. Musculoskeletal Pain During the Night and its Relationship to Sleep Quality and Poor Sleep Perception Among Older Adults. Sleep Epidemiology. December 2021. Found on the internet at https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2667343621000068

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