Construction & DIY
Home Renovation Cost Calculator
Estimate the total cost of a home renovation based on square footage and renovation scope tier, from cosmetic updates to a high-end remodel.
Estimated Cost
Square Footage 0 sq ft
Scope Cosmetic
Total Estimated Cost $0 - $0
Based on rough national-average per-square-foot estimates. Actual costs vary heavily by region, materials, and labor rates — get local quotes.
Cost by Renovation Scope (Current Square Footage)
What is a rough US budget for this remodel scope?
This is a planning range from typical US cost bands (scope × size), not a bid. Labor and materials swing hard by metro area. Use it to see if a project is “$8k or $40k” before you call contractors — then get written quotes.
What this is not
- Not a substitute for a licensed contractor estimate
- Not permit, design, or contingency (many people add 10–20% contingency)
- Finish level (builder grade vs custom) moves the number more than square footage sometimes
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a home renovation cost per square foot?
Home renovation costs typically range from about $20-$50 per square foot for cosmetic updates, $50-$100 per square foot for a mid-range remodel, and $100-$200+ per square foot for a high-end renovation with custom finishes.
What's included in a cosmetic renovation?
Cosmetic renovations typically cover paint, flooring replacement, fixture and hardware updates, and light cosmetic work without major structural or layout changes.
What's included in a high-end renovation?
High-end renovations typically involve custom finishes, high-end appliances and materials, structural or layout changes, and premium fixtures throughout — the most expensive tier.
How do I calculate total renovation cost from square footage?
Multiply your home's (or the renovated area's) square footage by the per-square-foot cost range for your chosen scope tier. For example, 1,500 sq ft at a mid-range $50-$100/sq ft comes out to $75,000-$150,000.
Should I renovate the whole house or one room at a time?
This depends on your budget and goals. Whole-house renovations can be more cost-efficient per square foot due to shared contractor setup costs, but room-by-room renovation lets you spread out the budget over time.
Does this calculator include permits and design fees?
The per-square-foot ranges used here are rough all-in estimates commonly cited for renovation budgeting, but actual permit costs, architect/designer fees, and unexpected issues (like discovering water damage) can add to the total.
How can I get a more accurate renovation estimate?
Get in-person quotes from at least 2-3 licensed local contractors after they've seen the space, since square-footage estimates can't account for your home's specific condition, local labor rates, and material choices.
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About these results: Figures are for planning only. Confirm anything you will buy, bill, or submit (materials, payroll, medical screening) against the label, a quote, or a professional.