15 Stores Similar to Macy's for Affordable Style

Macy’s has long been one of America’s most iconic department stores, symbolizing accessible fashion and timeless style. Founded in 1858, Macy’s built its reputation by offering everything from designer clothing and beauty essentials to furniture, home décor, and electronics all under one roof. Its combination of quality, variety, and frequent promotions made it a go-to destination for generations of shoppers. With flagship locations such as Herald Square in New York City and a strong online presence, Macy’s continues to play a central role in the American retail experience.

But in today’s ever-changing shopping landscape, Macy’s faces stiff competition from both traditional department stores and modern retail chains. Many shoppers are asking what are some stores similar to Macy’s offer affordable style without compromising on quality. To answer that, let’s explore Macy’s competitors and how they compare in terms of pricing, product range, and overall shopping experience.

Understanding Macy’s Place in the Retail Market

Before identifying stores similar to Macy’s, it’s worth understanding why Macy’s holds such a unique spot in retail. Macy’s blends mid-range pricing with a wide assortment of brands ranging from high-end designers to affordable labels, making it appealing to both budget-conscious and style-focused consumers.

While some view Macy’s as slightly more upscale than big-box stores, it is generally considered affordable compared to luxury retailers. So, is Macy’s expensive? Not exactly. It caters to a broad demographic, offering frequent sales like the Friends and Family Sale or VIP Sale that bring designer pieces within reach.

This balance of accessibility and quality has helped Macy’s stand apart, yet it also places it in direct competition with several department stores and retail chains across the United States.

1. Nordstrom

Nordstrom is one of the closest competitors of Macy’s, offering a mix of designer fashion, premium beauty, and accessories. While generally more upscale, Nordstrom’s customer service and curated brand selection make it a favorite for shoppers seeking quality and elegance.

What They Offer:

  • Designer labels and luxury brands

  • Exceptional in-store service and returns

  • Nordstrom Rack offers discounted items for budget shoppers

2. Bloomingdale’s

Often considered Macy’s upscale sibling, Bloomingdale’s targets shoppers looking for designer fashion with a luxury touch. It is owned by Macy’s Inc., yet the two cater to slightly different audiences.

What They Offer:

  • Luxury and designer fashion

  • Premium cosmetics and accessories

  • Personalized shopping experiences

Macy’s vs Bloomingdale’s: Bloomingdale’s is more high-end, while Macy’s focuses on accessibility and affordability.

3. Dillard’s

Stores like Dillard’s and Macy’s often attract similar shoppers. Dillard’s features a broad mix of apparel, beauty, and home products, combining national brands with exclusive labels.

What They Offer:

  • Elegant fashion for men and women

  • High-quality home goods

  • Seasonal sales similar to Macy’s Friends and Family events

4. Kohl’s

Kohl’s is one of the most popular stores similar to Macy’s for value-driven shoppers. It combines affordable pricing, brand variety, and reward programs that make every purchase more worthwhile.

What They Offer:

  • Frequent discounts and Kohl’s Cash rewards

  • Wide range of national brands

  • Family-focused apparel and home items

5. JCPenney

JCPenney has long been one of Macy’s biggest competitors, sharing a similar department store layout and product variety. Though it caters slightly more toward affordability, it maintains a stylish, everyday appeal.

What They Offer:

  • Budget-friendly clothing and shoes

  • Reliable home and bedding collections

  • Frequent coupon offers and clearance deals

6. Nordstrom Rack

The off-price version of Nordstrom, Nordstrom Rack, provides designer goods at discounted rates. It is a go-to for shoppers seeking Macy’s-style fashion without paying full retail prices.

What They Offer:

  • 30–70% off designer brands

  • Rotating deals on apparel and accessories

  • Perfect blend of style and savings

7. Saks OFF 5TH

A competitor in the affordable luxury space, Saks OFF 5TH is the outlet version of Saks Fifth Avenue. It competes with Macy’s in designer fashion at reduced prices.

What They Offer:

  • Discounted luxury brands

  • Trend-forward apparel and accessories

  • Frequent flash sales online and in-store

8. Belk

Belk is another department store that mirrors Macy’s balance of affordability and style. Popular in the South, it offers everything from apparel to home furnishings.

What They Offer:

  • Southern-inspired fashion and home dĂ©cor

  • Regular storewide promotions

  • Family-oriented collections at moderate prices

9. Target

Although not a traditional department store, Target competes with Macy’s in lifestyle and apparel. Its stylish collaborations and accessible pricing make it a favorite among younger shoppers.

What They Offer:

  • Trendy and affordable clothing lines

  • Designer collaborations at budget prices

  • Convenient one-stop shopping experience

10. Walmart

Walmart may not have Macy’s elegance, but its expanding fashion and home lines attract similar shoppers looking for budget-friendly alternatives.

What They Offer:

  • Everyday low pricing

  • Expanding apparel brands like Free Assembly and Scoop

  • Strong online and in-store presence

11. T.J. Maxx

For bargain hunters, T.J. Maxx offers a treasure-hunt experience with discounted name-brand products. It is ideal for shoppers who love Macy’s deals but want deeper discounts.

What They Offer:

  • 20–60% off retail prices

  • Rotating designer inventory

  • Focus on affordability without compromising style

12. Marshalls

Part of the same retail family as T.J. Maxx, Marshalls provides similar savings with a slightly broader focus on footwear and home décor.

What They Offer:

  • Great variety of fashion and home goods

  • Designer brands at outlet prices

  • New arrivals every week

13. Neiman Marcus

Neiman Marcus’s outlet branch, offers luxury fashion at reduced prices. It appeals to shoppers who admire Macy’s designer offerings but want deeper discounts.

What They Offer:

  • Markdowns on luxury brands

  • Trendy apparel and accessories

  • High-end shopping at affordable rates

14. Lord & Taylor

One of the oldest American department stores, Lord & Taylor, recently transitioned to an online-first model. It continues to offer high-quality clothing, shoes, and beauty products comparable to Macy’s.

What They Offer:

  • Timeless fashion with a modern online approach

  • Upscale yet affordable collections

  • Great mix of designer and private-label brands

15. Burlington

Burlington, formerly known as Burlington Coat Factory, is one of Macy’s most direct competitors in the discount fashion market. Though its stores are smaller, its pricing and variety attract a wide audience.

What They Offer:

  • Deep discounts on apparel and outerwear

  • Large selection of shoes and accessories

  • Great value for families and seasonal shoppers

The Modern Competition: Who Are Macy’s Competitors

When asking who are Macy’s competitors, the answer spans both full-line department stores and discount retailers. Nordstrom and Macy’s often compete for premium shoppers, while Kohl’s, Dillard’s, and Belk appeal to the mid-range audience. Off-price retailers like T.J. Maxx and Burlington also capture Macy’s discount-seeking demographic.

What ties them all together is a shared focus on style, accessibility, and customer satisfaction, values Macy’s has embodied for more than a century.

People looking to stretch their budget even further can also explore Macy’s Coupons & Promo Codes from Saving Says, which often provide additional savings on top of the store’s regular promotions, making affordable style even more accessible. Shoppers can also use a Macy’s gift card in combination with these deals to maximize value, whether they are shopping in-store or online.

Conclusion

Macy’s remains a cornerstone of American retail, offering a balance between designer fashion and everyday affordability. Yet, with the rise of competitive department stores and off-price outlets, shoppers today have more choices than ever.

Whether you prefer the premium feel of Nordstrom, the classic touch of Dillard’s, or the everyday value of Kohl’s, these stores, similar to Macy’s, continue the tradition of providing style, variety, and savings for every kind of shopper.

From luxury boutiques to family-friendly retailers, the spirit of Macy’s, fashion for all, lives on across its many competitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What stores are similar to Macy’s for affordable fashion?

Stores similar to Macy’s include Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s, Dillard’s, Kohl’s, JCPenney, Target, Walmart, T.J. Maxx, Marshalls, and Burlington. These retailers offer a mix of style, quality, and accessibility comparable to Macy’s.

Q. Who are Macy’s main competitors?

Macy’s competitors span full-line department stores like Nordstrom and Bloomingdale’s, mid-range retailers like Kohl’s and Dillard’s, and off-price outlets such as T.J. Maxx, Marshalls, and Burlington.

Q. Is Macy’s considered an expensive store?

Macy’s is generally affordable compared to luxury retailers, offering mid-range pricing with frequent promotions such as the Friends and Family Sale or VIP Sale, making designer pieces more accessible.

Q. Can I combine a Macy’s gift card with other deals?

Yes, you can use a Macy’s gift card along with Macy’s Coupons & Promo Codes from Saving Says for additional savings, both online and in-store.

Q. How do Macy’s stores compare to Nordstrom and Bloomingdale’s?

Nordstrom offers a more upscale experience with premium service and luxury brands, while Bloomingdale’s leans toward high-end designer fashion. Macy’s focuses on accessibility, balancing quality, variety, and affordability.