Home Addition Cost Guide
Home Addition runs $40,000–$180,000 nationally, centered around $90,000. The widest cost range on this list, because foundation type and finish level move the number more than square footage alone, though the number moves meaningfully by metro — see the city breakdown below.
Want a number specific to your city? Every metro has its own labor and permitting costs.
Localize This Estimate →What makes up the total cost
Home Addition is the widest cost range on this list, because foundation type and finish level move the number more than square footage alone.
Six things that move the price
Home Addition cost in 20 major U.S. metros
Regional labor rates and permitting requirements move this estimate by as much as 65% between the least and most expensive metros in our dataset.
Should you DIY a home addition?
Home Addition isn't a realistic DIY project for most homeowners — it requires licensing, permitting, and inspection in most jurisdictions. Treat the contractor's labor line item as a fixed cost, and focus your cost control on getting multiple itemized quotes instead.
Resale value consideration
Homeowners recoup roughly 52% of a home addition's cost at resale on average, according to typical remodeling ROI benchmarks. See our guide on which renovations actually pay back the most for how to weigh that against your own timeline.
Home Addition FAQ
How much does a home addition cost?
Home Addition costs $40,000–$180,000 nationally, averaging $90,000 for a typical 400 sq ft scope. The number varies by metro — see the city breakdown above, or use our calculator for a localized figure.
Do I need a permit for a home addition?
Yes, in most jurisdictions a home addition requires a permit and inspection. Requirements vary by city and state — check our city guides for local permitting notes, or confirm directly with your local building department.
How long does a home addition take?
A typical home addition takes 3–6 months from start to finish, though scheduling around contractor availability and seasonal demand can extend the timeline before work even begins.
What's included in this home addition estimate?
The estimate covers the full scope of a typical project: primarily foundation & framing (30%), exterior shell (20%), interior finish (25%), plus the remaining categories shown in the cost breakdown above. See our methodology for exactly how these figures are built.
How many quotes should I get for a home addition?
At least three, using the same written scope for each contractor so the bids are actually comparable. See our guide to getting accurate quotes for the full process.
Does a home addition increase home value?
On average, homeowners recoup about 52% of the cost at resale, per typical remodeling ROI benchmarks. See our ROI guide for how to weigh that against your own timeline.