Construction Cost Calculator

Enter your project's square footage and a cost per square foot to estimate total build cost, including a contingency buffer for overruns. The default cost per square foot is a national median for new single-family homes — replace it with a local quote or your own estimate for an accurate number.

Square footage

Cost per square foot ($)

Contingency buffer (%)

Estimated total cost–

Base cost–

Contingency amount–

Why cost per square foot varies so much

Cost per square foot depends heavily on region, finish level, lot condition, and whether the home is spec-built or custom. National medians are a starting point, not a quote — see thenew home construction cost page for a regional breakdown sourced from NAHB's analysis of Census Bureau data.

For informational purposes only. This calculator and the figures on this page are general estimates, not financial, tax, legal, or professional advice. Actual results vary by business, location, and circumstances — verify with a qualified professional before making decisions. Benchmark data last checked August 2026; see sources cited below.