Estimate total project costs for residential and commercial construction. Enter your details and get a ballpark cost range based on current 2026 industry benchmarks.
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We start with cost-per-square-foot benchmarks from RS Means and industry surveys, adjusted for project type.
Budget, standard, and premium tiers reflect real differences in materials and finishes — typically a 30-60% cost spread.
Labor and material costs vary 40-60% between high-cost metros and rural markets. Our regional factors reflect this.
We split costs across 5 categories (structure, exterior, MEP, interiors, site) using typical industry cost distribution percentages.
Average cost per square foot by project type and quality tier (national average)
| Project Type | Budget | Standard | Premium | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Residential (Single Family) | $130–170/sqft | $180–240/sqft | $280–400+/sqft | Excludes land, permits |
| New Residential (Multi-Family) | $150–190/sqft | $200–260/sqft | $290–420+/sqft | Per unit costs vary by density |
| Commercial Office | $170–210/sqft | $220–290/sqft | $320–500+/sqft | Core & shell only |
| Commercial Retail | $120–160/sqft | $170–230/sqft | $260–380+/sqft | Shell only, TI varies |
| Industrial / Warehouse | $70–100/sqft | $110–150/sqft | $160–220+/sqft | Clear-span, no mezzanine |
| Renovation / Remodel | $80–120/sqft | $130–190/sqft | $200–350+/sqft | Highly variable by scope |
Source: RS Means, NAHB, AGC. Updated Q1 2026. Regional multipliers apply. Not a substitute for a formal estimate. For deeper financial analysis of construction ROI, see FinanceStackHub.
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