Free Online Home Remodel Cost Calculator
Planning a home renovation? Our free calculator helps you estimate remodeling costs based on your specific project. Simply select your location, choose the room or area you want to renovate, specify the size and finish level, and get an instant cost estimate with detailed breakdowns for materials, labor, and other expenses.
Where is your project located?
Location affects material and labor costs significantly.
What are you remodeling?
Select the room or area you want to renovate.
Project Details
Tell us more about your project.
📐 Room Size
💎 Renovation Level
➕ Additional Features (Optional)
Your Estimated Renovation Cost
📊 Cost Breakdown
✅ What's Typically Included
📄 Download Your Detailed Report
Get a complete PDF report with your renovation cost estimate, breakdown, and planning tips.
Disclaimer: These estimates are for general guidance only. Actual costs vary based on specific conditions, contractor pricing, material selection, and local factors. Always get multiple quotes from licensed contractors for accurate pricing.
Home Remodel Cost Calculator: Estimate Renovation Costs by Room & Square Foot
Planning a home renovation project requires accurate cost estimates to avoid budget overruns and financial stress. Whether you’re updating a single bathroom or embarking on a whole-house remodel, our free home remodeling cost calculator helps you estimate expenses based on square footage, project scope, and quality level.
According to the 2024 U.S. Houzz & Home Study, homeowners spent a median of $20,000 on renovations, with 39% exceeding their budget. Proper planning—similar to how architects approach spatial planning with bubble diagrams—is essential for a successful remodel. This comprehensive guide covers everything from room-by-room cost breakdowns to ROI analysis and money-saving strategies.
Home Remodeling Cost Overview
Home renovation costs vary dramatically based on scope, location, materials, and labor rates. Understanding the typical ranges helps you set realistic expectations and plan your renovation budget effectively.
Average Home Remodel Costs by Scope
| Remodel Type | Cost Range | Cost per Sq Ft |
|---|---|---|
| Cosmetic Updates | $3,000 – $15,000 | $10 – $30 |
| Standard Renovation | $20,000 – $75,000 | $15 – $60 |
| Major Remodel | $40,000 – $150,000 | $50 – $100 |
| Whole House Remodel | $100,000 – $300,000+ | $60 – $150 |
| Gut Renovation | $100,000 – $200,000+ | $100 – $200 |
| Luxury/High-End | $200,000 – $500,000+ | $150 – $400+ |
Home Remodel Cost by House Size
| House Size | Standard Remodel | Major Remodel | Complete Gut |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1,000 sq ft | $15,000 – $60,000 | $50,000 – $100,000 | $100,000 – $200,000 |
| 1,500 sq ft | $22,500 – $90,000 | $75,000 – $150,000 | $150,000 – $300,000 |
| 2,000 sq ft | $30,000 – $120,000 | $100,000 – $200,000 | $200,000 – $400,000 |
| 2,500 sq ft | $37,500 – $150,000 | $125,000 – $250,000 | $250,000 – $500,000 |
| 3,000 sq ft | $45,000 – $180,000 | $150,000 – $300,000 | $300,000 – $600,000 |
How to Calculate Home Remodel Costs
Accurate cost estimation requires understanding the key variables that affect renovation expenses. Follow this systematic approach to develop a realistic budget for your project, as recommended in our guide to budgeting for a home remodel.
Total Cost = (Square Feet × Cost per Sq Ft) + Contingency (15-20%)Define Your Scope
Identify which rooms you’re remodeling and the extent of changes: cosmetic updates, standard renovation, or complete gut-and-remodel.
Measure Square Footage
Calculate the total area being renovated. Multiply length × width for each room. For whole-house projects, use your home’s total square footage.
Select Quality Level
Choose your finish level: budget ($15-30/sq ft), mid-range ($40-75/sq ft), or high-end ($100-200+/sq ft). This significantly impacts total costs.
Add Room-Specific Costs
Kitchens and bathrooms cost more ($100-250/sq ft) due to plumbing, electrical, and appliances. Factor these separately.
Include Contingency
Add 15-20% for unexpected issues like structural problems, code upgrades, or material price changes. Older homes may need 20-25%.
Example: 2,000 Sq Ft Mid-Range Whole House Remodel
• Living areas (1,400 sq ft × $45/sq ft): $63,000
• Kitchen (200 sq ft × $150/sq ft): $30,000
• Bathrooms (2 × 50 sq ft × $175/sq ft): $17,500
• Subtotal: $110,500
• Contingency (15%): $16,575
• Estimated Total: $127,075
Room-by-Room Remodeling Costs
Different rooms have vastly different renovation costs based on complexity and required systems. “Wet rooms” like kitchens and bathrooms involving plumbing are significantly more expensive than “dry rooms” like bedrooms and living areas.
Kitchen Remodel Cost
🍳 Kitchen Renovation
Cost per sq ft: $100 – $250
Kitchens are typically the most expensive room to remodel due to cabinetry, appliances, plumbing, and electrical work. They also provide one of the best returns on investment.
| Kitchen Remodel Level | Average Cost | What’s Included |
|---|---|---|
| Minor/Cosmetic | $5,000 – $20,000 | Paint, hardware, countertops, minor appliance updates |
| Mid-Range | $27,000 – $65,000 | Cabinet refacing/replacement, new countertops, appliances, flooring |
| Major Renovation | $50,000 – $80,000 | Custom cabinets, premium appliances, layout changes, new flooring |
| Upscale/Luxury | $80,000 – $160,000+ | Custom everything, commercial-grade appliances, stone counters, structural changes |
Bathroom Remodel Cost
🚿 Bathroom Renovation
Cost per sq ft: $100 – $500
Bathroom remodels offer excellent ROI (60-80%) and are among the most requested renovations by homebuyers. Costs depend heavily on fixture quality and whether plumbing is relocated.
| Bathroom Type | Budget | Mid-Range | Upscale |
|---|---|---|---|
| Half Bath (Powder Room) | $2,500 – $5,000 | $5,000 – $10,000 | $10,000 – $25,000 |
| Full Guest Bathroom | $6,000 – $12,000 | $12,000 – $25,000 | $25,000 – $50,000 |
| Primary/Master Bathroom | $10,000 – $20,000 | $25,000 – $50,000 | $50,000 – $80,000+ |
Living Room & Bedroom Remodel Costs
Living Room
Cost Range: $4,000 – $15,000
Per Sq Ft: $10 – $60
Includes flooring, paint, lighting, built-ins, fireplace updates, crown molding
Bedroom
Cost Range: $1,500 – $10,000
Per Sq Ft: $15 – $40
Includes paint, flooring, closet systems, lighting, windows
Basement
Cost Range: $12,000 – $50,000+
Per Sq Ft: $30 – $100
Finishing includes framing, insulation, electrical, flooring, egress windows
Exterior Remodel Costs
Exterior renovations boost curb appeal and protect your investment. For more ideas, see our guide on budget-friendly exterior upgrades.
| Exterior Project | Average Cost | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| Vinyl Siding Replacement | $11,000 – $18,000 | 68-80% |
| Fiber-Cement Siding | $18,000 – $25,000 | 70-85% |
| Roof Replacement | $8,000 – $25,000 | 60-70% |
| Window Replacement (10 windows) | $6,000 – $15,000 | 70-75% |
| Entry Door Replacement | $2,000 – $5,000 | 90-100% |
| Garage Door Replacement | $2,000 – $4,500 | 100-194% |
| Deck Addition | $15,000 – $35,000 | 65-80% |
Mobile Home Remodel Costs
🏠 Mobile & Manufactured Home Renovation
Mobile home remodeling costs are typically 30-50% less than traditional site-built homes due to smaller square footage and simplified construction. However, manufactured homes have unique considerations including HUD standards, specialized materials, and non-standard dimensions.
| Mobile Home Type | Total Remodel Range | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Single-Wide (600-1,300 sq ft) | $8,000 – $30,000 | $15,000 – $20,000 |
| Double-Wide (1,000-2,400 sq ft) | $11,000 – $50,000 | $25,000 – $35,000 |
| Triple-Wide (2,000+ sq ft) | $20,000 – $80,000+ | $40,000 – $60,000 |
Mobile Home Room-Specific Costs
- Kitchen: $3,000 – $20,000 (cabinets often non-standard 32″ height)
- Bathroom: $2,000 – $15,000 (compact fixtures, potential plumbing upgrades)
- Flooring: $1,500 – $7,000 (vinyl plank recommended for flexibility)
- Living Room: $2,000 – $10,000
- Roof Replacement: $1,000 – $16,000
- Skirting Replacement: $1,000 – $4,000
- Window Replacement: $250 – $700 per window
Factors Affecting Remodel Costs
Understanding what drives renovation costs helps you make informed decisions and identify areas for potential savings. As discussed in our guide on staying on budget during renovation, these factors require careful consideration.
Labor Costs (40-60% of Total)
Labor is typically the largest expense in any renovation. Rates vary significantly by location and trade specialty:
| Trade | Hourly Rate Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| General Contractor | $50 – $150/hr | Charges 10-25% of total project as fee |
| Carpenter | $40 – $100/hr | Framing, trim, cabinetry installation |
| Electrician | $50 – $130/hr | Licensed required for permits |
| Plumber | $45 – $200/hr | Highest rates for emergency/specialty work |
| Painter | $25 – $75/hr | Or $2-6 per square foot |
| Tile Installer | $40 – $100/hr | Or $10-25 per square foot |
Material Quality Levels
Budget Level
15-25% of total costs
- Laminate countertops
- Stock cabinets
- Vinyl flooring
- Builder-grade fixtures
Mid-Range Level
25-40% of total costs
- Quartz/solid surface counters
- Semi-custom cabinets
- Engineered hardwood
- Quality fixtures
High-End Level
40-60% of total costs
- Natural stone counters
- Custom cabinetry
- Solid hardwood
- Designer fixtures
Location Impact
Labor costs vary by up to 40% depending on your location. Major metropolitan areas like New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles have significantly higher rates than rural areas or mid-sized cities.
| Region | Cost Multiplier | Example Cities |
|---|---|---|
| High Cost | 1.3x – 1.5x national average | NYC, San Francisco, Boston, LA |
| Above Average | 1.1x – 1.3x national average | Seattle, Denver, Portland, San Diego |
| Average | 1.0x national average | Chicago, Phoenix, Dallas, Atlanta |
| Below Average | 0.8x – 0.95x national average | Houston, St. Louis, Indianapolis, Memphis |
Other Cost Factors
- Home Age: Homes built before 1940 cost 50% more to renovate on average due to outdated systems, lead paint, and asbestos concerns
- Permits & Inspections: $500 – $2,000+ depending on project scope and location
- Structural Changes: Moving walls adds $1,000-$10,000+ depending on load-bearing requirements
- Code Upgrades: Electrical panel upgrades ($1,500-$4,000), plumbing updates can add significant costs
- Demolition: $2-$10 per square foot for interior demo
- Design Fees: Architects charge $0.50-$2.00 per square foot or 8-15% of project cost
Return on Investment (ROI) by Project
Not all renovations provide equal returns. According to the 2024 Cost vs. Value Report from Remodeling Magazine, these projects offer the best ROI:
🏆 Highest ROI Remodeling Projects (2024-2025)
- Garage Door Replacement: 194% ROI
- Steel Entry Door: 188% ROI
- Minor Kitchen Remodel: 96-113% ROI
- Manufactured Stone Veneer: 153% ROI
- Fiber-Cement Siding: 89% ROI
- Vinyl Siding: 80% ROI
- Wood Deck Addition: 83% ROI
- Midrange Bathroom Remodel: 74-80% ROI
| Project | Average Cost | Value Added | ROI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minor Kitchen Remodel | $27,492 | $26,406 | 96% |
| Midrange Bathroom Remodel | $25,251 | $18,613 | 74% |
| Major Kitchen Remodel | $79,982 | $50,000 | 63% |
| Upscale Bathroom Remodel | $78,840 | $35,000 | 45% |
| Primary Suite Addition | $339,513 | $170,000 | 50% |
| Basement Remodel | $70,000 | $49,700 | 71% |
Money-Saving Tips for Home Remodeling
Smart strategies can reduce costs by 15-30% without sacrificing quality. For more detailed advice, see our comprehensive guides on planning a successful renovation and key renovation considerations.
Before Starting
- Get 3-5 quotes: Compare detailed, itemized estimates from multiple contractors
- Set priorities: Create a must-have vs. nice-to-have list to guide spending decisions
- Time it right: Schedule work in off-peak seasons (late fall/winter) for potential discounts
- Plan thoroughly: Avoid change orders by finalizing all decisions before work begins
Material Savings
- Refurbish vs. replace: Cabinet refacing saves 60-70% vs. new cabinets
- Smart substitutions: Quartz or high-quality laminate vs. marble; LVP vs. hardwood
- Shop sales: Buy discontinued or clearance items, especially appliances and fixtures
- Consider reclaimed: Architectural salvage for unique pieces at lower costs
Labor Savings
- DIY what you can: Demolition, painting, landscaping, and simple finish work
- Be your own GC: If experienced, manage subcontractors directly (saves 10-20%)
- Avoid structural changes: Working within existing layouts saves significantly
- Keep plumbing in place: Moving fixtures adds thousands to bathroom/kitchen costs
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to remodel a home per square foot?
Home remodeling typically costs $15 to $150 per square foot depending on scope and quality. Cosmetic updates run $15-30/sq ft, standard renovations $40-75/sq ft, and complete gut renovations $100-200/sq ft. Kitchens and bathrooms are higher at $100-250/sq ft due to plumbing and appliances.
How much does a whole house remodel cost?
A whole house remodel costs $100,000 to $300,000+ for an average 2,000 sq ft home, or approximately $50-150 per square foot. This includes updating all rooms, systems, and finishes. A complete gut renovation with structural changes can exceed $400,000 for larger homes.
How much does it cost to remodel a mobile home?
Mobile home remodeling costs $8,000 to $50,000 depending on home size and scope. Single-wides average $15,000-$25,000, while double-wides range $20,000-$40,000. Kitchen remodels cost $3,000-$15,000 and bathrooms $2,000-$10,000. Costs are generally 30-50% less than traditional homes.
What is the most expensive room to remodel?
The kitchen is typically the most expensive room to remodel, costing $10,000-$80,000+ depending on scope. This is due to cabinetry, countertops, appliances, plumbing, and electrical work. Primary bathrooms are second most expensive at $15,000-$50,000+ for major renovations.
What remodeling projects have the best ROI?
According to 2024 data, the best ROI projects are: garage door replacement (194% ROI), steel entry door (188%), manufactured stone veneer (153%), and minor kitchen remodel (96-113%). Curb appeal improvements generally outperform interior renovations for resale value.
How much should I budget for unexpected costs?
Budget 15-20% of your total project cost for contingencies. For older homes (pre-1950) or major structural work, increase this to 20-25%. Common surprises include hidden water damage, outdated wiring, plumbing issues, and foundation problems discovered during demolition.
Is it cheaper to renovate or build new?
Renovation is generally 20-30% cheaper than new construction when comparing similar quality levels. New construction costs $150-$400+ per square foot while major renovations cost $60-$150/sq ft. However, if renovation costs exceed 50% of the home’s value, building new may make more financial sense.
How long does a whole house remodel take?
A whole house remodel typically takes 4-12 months depending on scope. Kitchen renovations take 6-12 weeks, bathroom remodels 3-6 weeks, and complete gut renovations 6-12+ months. Factor in 2-4 weeks for permits and potential delays for materials or inspections.
Should I hire a general contractor or manage subcontractors myself?
Hire a general contractor for complex projects involving multiple trades, permits, or structural work—they charge 10-25% but manage coordination, scheduling, and quality control. Managing subcontractors yourself can save money on simple projects but requires significant time, knowledge, and risk management.
What permits do I need for a home remodel?
Permits are typically required for: structural changes (removing walls), electrical work beyond fixture replacement, plumbing changes, HVAC modifications, window/door additions, and any work affecting fire safety. Cosmetic work like painting, flooring, and cabinet installation usually doesn’t require permits. Always check local building codes.
Additional Resources
HomeAdvisor Remodel CalculatorRoom-by-room cost estimates with local pricing
Remodeling CalculatorFree estimates for multiple project types
HomeGuide Cost DataDetailed 2026 remodeling cost data
Rocket Mortgage GuideRenovation costs and estimation templates
NerdWallet Renovation GuideCost breakdowns by project type
Fixr Cost vs Value Report2025 ROI data for all project types
This Old House ROI GuideExpert advice on value-adding renovations
Angi Mobile Home CostsManufactured home renovation pricing
Related Articles on Illustrarch
- Understanding Home Renovation Costs: A Comprehensive Guide
- How to Budget for a Home Remodel: 5 Essential Tips
- Essential Guide to Home Renovation Budget Planning
- How to Plan a Successful Home Renovation
- How to Stay on Budget During a Home Renovation
- Top Things to Consider When Renovating a House
- Expert Architectural Tips for Home Renovation
- Professional Renovation: Complete Guide to Planning & Budgeting
- Modern Renovation Trends Every Homeowner Should Know
- Transform Your Home on a Budget: 6 Easy Exterior Upgrades
- How to Draw a House Blueprint with Software
- Future Trends in Interior Design
- The Golden Ratio in Architecture
- Top Building Materials for Sustainable Construction
Tools on Illustrarch
- Bubble Diagram Maker – Plan spatial relationships for your renovation
- All Architecture Tools – Browse our complete collection
