The 36 Best Housewarming Gifts

Moving to a new house or apartment can be overwhelming, but a thoughtful housewarming gift can make the transition a bit easier. Still, housewarming gifts aren’t one-size-fits-all, and it can be tough to decide whether to go the practical or decorative route. 

To simplify your search, I’ve rounded up a selection of housewarming gifts to help turn their new house into a home. Whether kitchen staples or personalized decor, there’s something for every style and budget.

Kitchen Essentials 

After a recent move, a fully stocked kitchen might not be at the top of their list, so helping them tackle the essentials will be much appreciated. As someone with minimal cabinet space, I can vouch that the Our Place Home Cook Duo is a lifesaver. This two-piece set can do just about everything—sauteeing, crisping, boiling, etc.—and it’s completely transformed my cooking routine. 

If cooking isn’t their thing, you can help them start building their bar cart with a crystal wine glass set and marble wine chiller. Or, let them show off their bartending skills with this cocktail recipe book that features 400 delicious recipes they’ll be excited to try.

Cozy Comforts

Not every housewarming gift has to be “for the house”—some can be for the homeowner, too. Sleeping in a new space can take some time to get used to, and the right bedding can make or break their sleep routine. My Buffy Breeze Sheet Set checks all the boxes of a great sheet set: soft, cooling, and cozy. I also swear by the West Elm Chenille Throw, which has earned a spot at the edge of my bed and on my sofa. 

If you’re looking for something a bit more thoughtful, you can’t go wrong with the Homesick New Home Candle. Whether you choose the “New Home” scent to celebrate their new space or opt for one that reflects their home state for a bit of nostalgia, it’s a thoughtful and personal gift. 

Home Decor & Accents

A new living space can feel a bit bare, so decorative gifts are a great way to make it feel more like a home. These geometric coasters were one of the first housewarming gifts I received when I moved into my apartment, and they’re definitely my most used. They add a subtle yet colorful touch to my coffee table without overpowering it, making them the perfect accent. I’m also a big fan of this MoMA Design Store Colorful Backgammon Set—whether they’re an avid player or just using it as decoration, it’s a real eye-catcher.

If they’re indecisive like me, the Aura Carver Digital Picture Frame is a must-have. It lets them cycle through thousands of their favorite photos and videos—no need to choose just one. Plus, they can sync it with friends and family, so everyone can add photos directly from their phones.

Personalized Picks

If you’re gifting for someone close to you—whether it’s your brother or best friend— a personalized gift is extra thoughtful. I’m obsessed with this monogrammed jewelry tray, which helps keep their rings, earrings, and other small accessories organized. For something a bit more decorative, the Positive Prints New Home Map is a great choice. Customize it with their address, and the brand will create a map-style poster highlighting their new home.  

For the hostess in your life, consider this personalized compact swivel cheese board. Its space-saving design is perfect for small storage spaces, but it extends into a tiered serving tray. Plus, It even comes with a cheese fork and knives, everything needed for your next charcuterie night. 

Take Our Word for It

This article was written by Jamie Fischer, a shopping writer for Real Simple. Having recently moved into a new apartment, she has plenty of experience both giving and receiving housewarming gifts. To find the best options, she spent hours researching decorative gifts as well as practical presents, asking her friends and family what they’d be happy to receive.