I think chairs run from anywhere from 2 hundred up to about 6 or 7 hundred.
Sofas start around 1000 and can go to 3 thousand. Of course it depends where you live.

Carlhag is correct. There are many variables which affect the labor price of upholstery work. The best way is to get quotes for your specific piece.

anyone in LA should hit me up for a quote:
http://www.properfurniture.net/contact.php

You should also account the cost of the fabric which can usually ranges anywhere from 10-50 dollars a yard. An armchair would typically need 3-5 yards while a sofa can need 10-15.

This makes me want to go on a thrift store raid.

Does anyone know of a reasonable upholsterer in NYC?

Great inspiration! 2011 is going to be my project year. Already started repurposing an old TV armoire into a craft storage armoire. Can't wait till it's done.
Also, reupholstered 2 of my 6 dining chairs with fun zebra print fabric. And plan on painting a headboard on my wall.

Jenny,
You might try Ablert Vitiello Decorators located in Bethpage, New York. The man is an artist!Very reasonable for high quality, excellent workmanship.

thanks for the re-post AT! For those chairs, I think I bought about 2 yards. Actually I bought remnants from calico corners and I think it was about $15. Honestly, all together, it was probably around $30, which included the cording, fabric, staples and spray paint. And of course, the chairs were FREE! Thanks again!