Construction Cost Per Square Foot Calculator
Enter your project details to calculate cost per square foot, or enter a target cost per square foot to estimate total project cost.
Average Construction Costs Per Square Foot (2025-2026)
| Building Type | Low Range | Mid Range | High Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Residential (basic) | $120/sq ft | $175/sq ft | $250/sq ft |
| Residential (custom) | $200/sq ft | $325/sq ft | $500+/sq ft |
| Commercial Office | $200/sq ft | $300/sq ft | $450/sq ft |
| Retail Space | $150/sq ft | $250/sq ft | $400/sq ft |
| Industrial / Warehouse | $80/sq ft | $150/sq ft | $250/sq ft |
| Restaurant | $250/sq ft | $400/sq ft | $600/sq ft |
FAQ
What is the average construction cost per square foot?
Average construction costs per square foot vary widely by project type. Residential new construction typically costs $150-$300/sq ft, commercial office space $200-$400/sq ft, and industrial buildings $100-$250/sq ft. Costs vary significantly by region, materials, and complexity.
How do you calculate cost per square foot?
Divide the total project cost by the total square footage. For example, a $300,000 project on a 2,000 sq ft space = $150 per square foot. Include all costs: materials, labor, overhead, and profit.
Why does cost per square foot vary so much?
Cost per square foot varies based on location (labor rates, material transport), project complexity (custom vs standard), building type, finishes (basic vs high-end), and market conditions (material availability, labor demand).
Get detailed cost breakdowns with Contractor Co-Pilot
Detailed estimates with material, labor, and overhead line items.