Construction Cost Estimator
Estimate construction costs per square foot for new homes, additions, remodels, and more. Regional adjustments and material/labor breakdown included.
Standard residential construction
Cost Breakdown
Total Estimated Cost
$448,000
Cost Breakdown
National average costs - adjusted for your region
- Get 3+ contractor quotes for accurate pricing
- Costs can vary significantly based on site conditions
- Material prices fluctuate with market conditions
- Complex designs, custom features, and accessibility requirements increase costs
- Always budget for the unexpected - 15-20% contingency is wise
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About This Calculator
Planning a construction project requires accurate cost estimates to secure financing, compare bids, and avoid budget overruns. Our Construction Cost Estimator provides realistic per-square-foot costs for various project types, from new home construction to kitchen remodels, adjusted for your quality level and region. While every project is unique, understanding typical cost ranges helps you budget effectively and evaluate contractor quotes.
Construction costs in 2026 continue to reflect elevated material and labor prices, with the national average for new residential construction ranging from $180-280 per square foot. Regional variations of 25-40% exist between the most and least expensive markets—a home costing $300,000 to build in Texas might cost $420,000 in California and $500,000+ in Hawaii. Labor shortages persist in skilled trades, with licensed plumbers commanding $85-175/hour and electricians $60-145/hour—up 6-10% from 2025.
Use this calculator as a starting point, then get multiple contractor bids for your specific project. Professional estimates based on actual plans will be significantly more accurate than per-square-foot rules of thumb, especially for projects with unique features, difficult sites, or premium finishes.
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How to Use the Construction Cost Estimator
- 1Select your project type (new home, addition, remodel, etc.).
- 2Enter the square footage of the project area.
- 3Choose your quality level (economy, standard, or premium finishes).
- 4In advanced mode, select your region for local cost adjustments.
- 5Adjust contingency percentage (10-20% recommended for unknowns).
- 6Review the total estimate broken down by materials, labor, and fees.
- 7Use this estimate as a baseline for evaluating contractor bids.
2026 New Construction Costs by Project Type
National average construction costs per square foot for 2026. Prices reflect complete turn-key construction including permits, site prep, and standard finishes:
New Home Construction:
| Project Type | Economy | Standard | Premium | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Home (single-family) | $150-180/sf | $200-250/sf | $280-350/sf | $400-600+/sf |
| Home Addition | $200-250/sf | $275-350/sf | $375-450/sf | $500-700+/sf |
| Second Story Addition | $250-300/sf | $325-400/sf | $425-500/sf | $550-750+/sf |
| Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) | $200-275/sf | $300-375/sf | $400-475/sf | $500-650/sf |
| Detached Garage | $50-75/sf | $80-120/sf | $130-175/sf | $200-300/sf |
| Attached Garage | $45-65/sf | $70-100/sf | $110-150/sf | $175-250/sf |
| Barndominium | $80-120/sf | $130-180/sf | $200-275/sf | $300-400/sf |
Why Additions Cost More Than New Construction:
- Must tie into existing structure (framing, roofing, utilities)
- Work around existing finishes without damaging them
- Match existing materials (which may be discontinued)
- Limited access for equipment and material delivery
- Homeowners living in the house during construction
Premium and luxury tiers include architect-designed plans, custom finishes, and high-end materials. Economy assumes tract-home specs and builder-grade finishes.
2026 Renovation and Remodeling Costs
Remodeling costs are higher per square foot than new construction due to demolition, discovery of hidden problems, and working around existing structures:
Interior Remodeling:
| Project Type | Economy | Standard | Premium | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kitchen Remodel | $150-200/sf | $250-350/sf | $400-500/sf | $550-800+/sf |
| Bathroom Remodel | $180-250/sf | $280-400/sf | $450-600/sf | $650-1,000+/sf |
| Major Whole-House Remodel | $100-150/sf | $175-250/sf | $275-375/sf | $400-600+/sf |
| Basement Finish | $50-75/sf | $80-125/sf | $140-200/sf | $225-350/sf |
| Attic Conversion | $75-100/sf | $125-175/sf | $200-275/sf | $300-450/sf |
Typical Project Costs (2026):
| Project | Size | Total Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Kitchen (mid-range) | 150-200 sf | $37,500-$70,000 |
| Kitchen (upscale) | 200-250 sf | $80,000-$150,000+ |
| Primary Bathroom | 80-120 sf | $22,400-$72,000 |
| Half Bath | 25-35 sf | $8,000-$20,000 |
| Basement Finish | 800-1,200 sf | $64,000-$150,000 |
| Whole House Gut | 2,000 sf | $350,000-$750,000 |
ROI by Project Type (2026):
| Project | Cost Recouped at Sale |
|---|---|
| Minor kitchen remodel | 72-85% |
| Major kitchen remodel (mid-range) | 55-70% |
| Major kitchen remodel (upscale) | 45-55% |
| Bathroom addition | 55-65% |
| Bathroom remodel (mid-range) | 60-74% |
| Bathroom remodel (upscale) | 45-55% |
| Primary suite addition | 50-60% |
| Deck addition | 65-80% |
Regional Cost Adjustments (2026)
Construction costs vary dramatically by location. Use these multipliers to adjust national averages:
Highest Cost Regions (120-150% of national average):
| Location | Multiplier | $200/sf National = |
|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | 1.45-1.55 | $290-310/sf |
| San Francisco Bay Area | 1.40-1.50 | $280-300/sf |
| New York City Metro | 1.35-1.45 | $270-290/sf |
| Los Angeles/Orange County | 1.30-1.40 | $260-280/sf |
| Seattle/Bellevue | 1.25-1.35 | $250-270/sf |
| Boston/Northeast Corridor | 1.25-1.35 | $250-270/sf |
| San Diego | 1.20-1.30 | $240-260/sf |
Above Average Cost Regions (105-120%):
| Location | Multiplier | $200/sf National = |
|---|---|---|
| Denver/Colorado Front Range | 1.10-1.20 | $220-240/sf |
| Portland, OR | 1.10-1.18 | $220-236/sf |
| Austin, TX | 1.08-1.15 | $216-230/sf |
| Minneapolis/St. Paul | 1.05-1.12 | $210-224/sf |
| Chicago Metro | 1.05-1.15 | $210-230/sf |
| Washington, DC Metro | 1.15-1.25 | $230-250/sf |
Average Cost Regions (95-105%):
| Location | Multiplier | $200/sf National = |
|---|---|---|
| Phoenix/Tucson | 0.98-1.05 | $196-210/sf |
| Atlanta Metro | 0.95-1.05 | $190-210/sf |
| Dallas/Houston | 0.95-1.02 | $190-204/sf |
| Charlotte, NC | 0.98-1.05 | $196-210/sf |
| Tampa/Orlando | 0.95-1.05 | $190-210/sf |
Below Average Cost Regions (85-95%):
| Location | Multiplier | $200/sf National = |
|---|---|---|
| Texas (non-metro) | 0.88-0.95 | $176-190/sf |
| Midwest Rural | 0.85-0.92 | $170-184/sf |
| Southern States | 0.85-0.95 | $170-190/sf |
| Oklahoma | 0.82-0.90 | $164-180/sf |
| Arkansas/Mississippi | 0.80-0.88 | $160-176/sf |
Material vs. Labor Cost Breakdown
Understanding how your money is spent helps identify savings opportunities and evaluate bids:
Overall Construction Cost Split:
| Component | Percentage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Materials | 40-50% | Lumber, concrete, finishes, fixtures |
| Labor | 35-45% | Skilled trades, general labor |
| Overhead/Profit | 10-20% | Contractor's business costs |
| Permits/Fees | 1-3% | Building permits, inspections |
New Home Construction - Cost by Trade:
| Trade | % of Total | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Foundation/Concrete | 8-12% | $18,000-36,000 |
| Framing (labor + lumber) | 15-22% | $35,000-66,000 |
| Roofing | 5-8% | $12,000-24,000 |
| Windows/Doors | 5-10% | $12,000-30,000 |
| Plumbing (rough + finish) | 8-12% | $18,000-36,000 |
| Electrical | 6-10% | $14,000-30,000 |
| HVAC | 8-12% | $18,000-36,000 |
| Insulation/Drywall | 5-8% | $12,000-24,000 |
| Interior Finishes | 15-25% | $35,000-75,000 |
| Exterior Finishes | 8-12% | $18,000-36,000 |
| Site Work/Utilities | 5-10% | $12,000-30,000 |
Based on 2,000 sf home at $300,000 total construction cost.
2026 Labor Rates by Trade:
| Trade | Hourly Rate | Daily Rate (8 hrs) |
|---|---|---|
| General Carpenter | $45-75 | $360-600 |
| Finish Carpenter | $55-95 | $440-760 |
| Electrician | $60-145 | $480-1,160 |
| Plumber | $85-175 | $680-1,400 |
| HVAC Technician | $75-150 | $600-1,200 |
| Mason/Concrete | $50-85 | $400-680 |
| Tile Installer | $12-22/sf | Per project |
| Painter | $35-60 | $280-480 |
| Roofer | $45-80 | $360-640 |
Hidden Costs and Contingencies
Budget for these often-overlooked expenses that catch homeowners by surprise:
Pre-Construction Costs:
| Expense | Typical Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Architectural design | 5-15% of construction | Higher for custom homes |
| Engineering (structural) | $2,500-10,000 | Required for many projects |
| Survey | $400-800 | Required for most permits |
| Soil/geotechnical report | $800-3,000 | Required in many areas |
| Permit fees | 1-3% of construction | Varies by jurisdiction |
| Plan review fees | $500-2,500 | Part of permit process |
| Impact fees | $2,000-30,000+ | New construction only |
| Utility connection fees | $1,000-15,000 | Varies dramatically |
During Construction:
| Expense | Typical Cost | How to Minimize |
|---|---|---|
| Change orders | 5-15% of contract | Make all decisions before signing |
| Material price escalation | 3-8% on long projects | Lock in prices, buy early |
| Weather delays | Labor cost continues | Schedule for good weather |
| Unforeseen conditions | 10-25% on remodels | Thorough pre-construction inspection |
| Temporary utilities | $200-500/month | Include in contract |
| Dumpster/debris removal | $500-2,000 | Often not included in bids |
| Portable toilet | $150-250/month | Required for most projects |
Post-Construction:
| Expense | Typical Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Landscaping | $10,000-50,000+ | Usually separate budget |
| Driveway/hardscape | $5,000-25,000 | Often not in construction contract |
| Window treatments | $5,000-20,000 | Rarely included |
| Appliances | $5,000-30,000 | May or may not be included |
| Moving/storage | $2,000-10,000 | During construction |
| Temporary housing | $2,000-5,000/month | For major remodels |
| Final cleaning | $500-2,000 | Professional deep clean |
Recommended Contingency by Project Type:
| Project Type | Recommended Contingency |
|---|---|
| New construction (own land) | 5-10% |
| New construction (challenging site) | 10-15% |
| Addition (straightforward) | 10-15% |
| Remodel (cosmetic) | 10-15% |
| Remodel (gut renovation) | 15-25% |
| Historic renovation | 20-30% |
| Discovered mold/asbestos | Add 20-50% |
Getting Accurate Contractor Bids
How to get quotes you can actually compare and trust:
Before Soliciting Bids:
- Complete architectural drawings (at least schematic design)
- Create detailed scope of work document
- Specify allowances for fixtures and finishes
- List inclusions and exclusions clearly
- Determine your realistic timeline
- Verify your financing is in place
Finding Contractors:
- Get referrals from architects, real estate agents, and neighbors
- Check state contractor licensing boards
- Verify insurance (general liability and workers' comp)
- Review Google/Yelp reviews (look for patterns, not outliers)
- Visit active job sites if possible
- Request references from last 3-5 similar projects
Bid Package Should Include:
| Item | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Detailed line-item pricing | Compare specific costs, identify markup |
| Material specifications | Ensure same quality across bids |
| Labor breakdown | Understand crew costs |
| Payment schedule | Typical: 10% deposit, progress payments |
| Timeline/milestones | Hold contractor accountable |
| Warranty terms | 1-year workmanship minimum |
| Insurance certificates | Verify before signing |
| Permit responsibility | Who pulls and pays for permits |
| Change order process | Pre-agreed markup percentage |
Evaluating Bids:
| Green Flags | Red Flags |
|---|---|
| Detailed, itemized breakdown | Lump sum with no detail |
| 10-30 day validity period | "Sign today" pressure |
| References readily provided | Reluctant or no references |
| Clear change order process | Vague about extras |
| Professional communication | Difficult to reach |
| Similar project experience | First time with this type |
Bid Spread Guidelines:
| Spread Between Bids | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| Within 10% | Normal variation - compare details |
| 10-20% | Investigate differences in scope |
| 20%+ low outlier | Likely underbid - proceed with caution |
| 20%+ high outlier | May include extras or be overpriced |
DIY vs. Professional Cost Comparison
Where DIY makes sense and where hiring professionals is worth the cost:
Best DIY Projects (40-70% savings possible):
| Project | Pro Cost | DIY Cost | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Interior painting | $3-6/sf | $0.50-1.50/sf | 60-80% |
| Simple tile backsplash | $25-50/sf | $8-15/sf | 50-70% |
| Laminate flooring | $8-15/sf | $3-6/sf | 50-60% |
| Basic landscaping | $50-100/sf | $15-35/sf | 50-70% |
| Fence installation | $25-50/lf | $12-25/lf | 40-60% |
| Deck staining | $4-8/sf | $1-2/sf | 60-80% |
| Cabinet painting | $100-200/door | $25-50/door | 60-80% |
Hire Professionals For These (Safety/Code/Warranty):
| Project | Why Professional |
|---|---|
| Electrical (permit required) | Code compliance, fire safety, inspection |
| Plumbing (major) | Code compliance, leak prevention |
| Structural work | Engineering requirements, safety |
| Gas line work | Life safety, licensing required |
| HVAC installation | Warranty, efficiency, code |
| Roofing | Fall hazard, warranty concerns |
| Foundation work | Structural integrity |
| Load-bearing wall removal | Engineering required |
DIY Hidden Costs to Consider:
| Factor | Impact |
|---|---|
| Tool purchase/rental | $100-2,000+ depending on project |
| Learning curve mistakes | 10-30% material waste typical |
| Time investment | Your hourly rate × hours spent |
| Permit/inspection issues | DIY work often flagged |
| Resale disclosure | May require professional certification |
| No warranty | Must fix problems yourself |
| Injury risk | Medical costs, lost wages |
Cost-Saving Strategies That Actually Work
Proven methods to reduce construction costs without sacrificing quality:
Design Phase Savings (Biggest Impact):
| Strategy | Savings | Implementation |
|---|---|---|
| Simple footprint | 10-20% | Rectangular > complex shapes |
| Reduce corners | $5,000-10,000 each | Each corner adds framing, roofing, siding labor |
| Standard room sizes | 5-10% | Minimize material waste |
| Single-story vs two-story | Mixed | Per sf cheaper but more foundation/roof |
| Standard ceiling heights | 3-8% | 9' standard vs. 10'+ vaulted |
| Minimize wet walls | 5-10% | Stack bathrooms, cluster plumbing |
| Standard window sizes | 3-5% | Stock vs. custom windows |
Material Selection Savings:
| Strategy | Savings | Trade-offs |
|---|---|---|
| LVP vs. hardwood flooring | 40-60% | Less refinish potential |
| Laminate vs. granite counters | 60-70% | Less durable, lower resale |
| Builder-grade vs. premium fixtures | 30-50% | Aesthetic, possible quality |
| Fiberglass vs. clawfoot tub | 70-80% | Style preference |
| Vinyl vs. wood windows | 30-50% | Maintenance, aesthetics |
| Asphalt vs. metal roofing | 40-60% | Lifespan (25 vs. 50+ years) |
Construction Phase Savings:
| Strategy | Savings | How to Implement |
|---|---|---|
| Off-season scheduling | 5-15% | Start fall/winter |
| Bulk material purchases | 5-15% | Coordinate with contractor |
| Owner-provided materials | 5-10% | Clear agreement required |
| Sweat equity | 10-30% | Painting, cleanup, landscaping |
| Simplify change orders | 5-15% | Decide everything upfront |
| Phase the project | 0-10% | Spreads cost, may increase total |
What NOT to Cut:
| Don't Skimp On | Why |
|---|---|
| Structural components | Safety, code compliance |
| Insulation/air sealing | Energy costs forever |
| Roofing quality | Prevents water damage |
| Electrical service size | Expensive to upgrade later |
| Foundation waterproofing | Prevents major problems |
| HVAC efficiency | Operating costs for decades |
Pro Tips
- 💡Always add 10-20% contingency to your budget—industry data shows 95% of projects use their contingency, and many need more.
- 💡Get at least 3 detailed, itemized bids from licensed, insured contractors. Be suspicious of any bid more than 10% below the others.
- 💡Make all design decisions before construction starts. Change orders during construction typically cost 2-3x what they would have cost in the original scope.
- 💡Avoid the cheapest bid—contractors who underbid either cut corners, add change orders, or may not finish your project at all.
- 💡Schedule projects in off-peak seasons (late fall through early spring) for 5-15% lower costs and better contractor availability.
- 💡Lock in material prices for projects lasting more than 3 months. Material cost escalation clauses can add 5-10% to long projects.
- 💡Visit the contractor's current job sites and talk to past clients. Online reviews are helpful but direct references are more reliable.
- 💡Never pay more than 10% deposit. Structure progress payments to stay slightly ahead of completed work to maintain leverage.
- 💡Get all agreements in writing, including the change order process, payment schedule, timeline, and warranty terms.
- 💡Consider hiring an independent inspector for $300-500 to review work at key milestones—worth every penny for peace of mind.
- 💡Plan your temporary living situation for major remodels. Living in the construction zone adds stress and can slow the project.
- 💡Keep detailed records of all communications, payments, and changes. These protect you if disputes arise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Per-square-foot estimates are useful for early budgeting with ±20-30% accuracy, but they can't account for specific design choices, site conditions, or regional labor markets. Two 2,000 sf homes can vary by 100% in cost depending on complexity, finishes, and location. Get detailed contractor bids based on actual architectural plans for accurate pricing—per-sf estimates are a starting point, not a final budget.
