What's the cheapest flooring to install in 2026?

Laminate and luxury vinyl plank (LVP) are the most affordable installed flooring options at $3–$9 per sqft in 2026. Both are durable, easy to clean, and visually convincing as wood; LVP is also waterproof, which is why it has overtaken carpet as the most-installed flooring in new US residential construction. Sheet vinyl is even cheaper at $2–$5/sqft but reads as dated. Carpet ($3–$8/sqft) is comparable on price but with a 7–10 year useful life vs 20+ for LVP. Avoid 'flooring deals' under $2/sqft installed — the underlayment is usually skipped and you get telegraphed subfloor unevenness.