Cost Guide for Building a Barndominium
Barndominiums have grown in popularity as an affordable and versatile alternative to traditional homes. This guide will explore the various costs associated with building a barndominium, from basic square footage costs to the nuances of different states, designs, and materials.
Key Takeaways
- Average Cost Per Square Foot: $65 to $160, depending on various factors such as materials and location.
- Total Cost for Standard Sizes: Ranges from $130,000 for a 2,000 square foot unit up to $800,000 for larger sizes.
- Cost-Efficient Plans Available: Stock plans can significantly reduce costs compared to custom designs.
- Kits Offer a Price Range: Starting from $36,000 for smaller sizes to $250,000 for extensive square footage.
- Factors Influencing Cost: Include site preparation, foundation, labor, utilities, and finishing touches.
- State Variations: Costs per square foot vary by state, reflecting local material costs and labor rates.
- Comparison with Traditional Homes: Barndominiums can be more cost-effective and quicker to construct but might have limitations on resale and financing.
Average Cost to Build a Barndominium
The cost of building a barndominium can vary widely based on size, materials, and location. Here’s a breakdown of the average costs for various sizes:
| Square Feet | Average Cost to Build* |
|---|---|
| 1,000 | $65,000 – $160,000 |
| 1,200 | $78,000 – $192,000 |
| 1,500 | $97,500 – $240,000 |
| 1,800 | $117,000 – $288,000 |
| 2,000 | $130,000 – $320,000 |
| 2,500 | $162,500 – $400,000 |
| 3,000 | $195,000 – $480,000 |
| 3,500 | $227,500 – $560,000 |
| 4,000 | $260,000 – $640,000 |
| 5,000 | $325,000 – $800,000 |
These figures suggest a significant initial investment but offer a customizable living space that can adapt to various uses, from residential to mixed-use buildings.
Barndominium Plans with Cost
Plan Costs:
- Stock Barndominium Plans: $1,300 – $2,000
- Custom-Designed Barndominium Plans: $4,500 – $6,000+
Opting for stock plans can substantially reduce the cost and complexity of the building process.
Barndominium Kit Prices
Kits are a popular choice for their cost-effectiveness and simplicity. Here’s what you can expect to pay for various kit sizes:
| Dimensions | Square Footage | Unfinished Kit Costs* |
|---|---|---|
| 30×40 | 1,200 | $36,000 – $60,000 |
| 40×40 | 1,600 | $48,000 – $80,000 |
| 40×60 | 2,400 | $72,000 – $120,000 |
| 40×70 | 2,800 | $84,000 – $140,000 |
| 40×80 | 3,200 | $96,000 – $160,000 |
| 50×50 | 2,500 | $75,000 – $125,000 |
| 50×80 | 4,000 | $120,000 – $200,000 |
| 50×100 | 5,000 | $150,000 – $250,000 |
| 60×60 | 3,600 | $108,000 – $180,000 |
| 60×80 | 4,800 | $144,000 – $240,000 |
Barndominium Cost Calculator
Understanding how different factors contribute to the overall cost can help you budget more effectively:
| Factor | Percentage of Total Cost |
|---|---|
| Building Shell / Kit | 20% |
| Assembly Labor | 10% |
| Site Prep | 5% – 10% |
| Concrete Slab Foundation | 5% – 10% |
| Utilities | 15% |
| Interior & Exterior Finishing | 40% |
| Permits | < 1% |
| Total | 100% |
Additional Considerations
- Land and Access: Costs of buying land and creating access roads can add significantly to your project.
- Zoning and Permits: Understanding local zoning laws and the cost of permits is crucial for planning.
- Foundation and Basements: The choice between a standard foundation or a basement impacts costs and functionality.
- Labor and Materials: These are significant factors, especially in states with higher costs of living.
- Utility Services: Opting between municipal services or a septic system can affect both upfront and long-term expenses.
- Exterior Finishing: Choices in materials and design affect both aesthetics and maintenance costs.
State Variations in Cost
Barndominium costs vary by state, reflecting differences in labor rates and material costs. For instance, building costs per square foot in Texas might be significantly different than in California or New York.
Cost Comparison: Barndominium vs. Traditional House
Comparing costs between barndominiums and traditional houses helps underline the cost-efficiency of barndominiums, especially with stock plans. However, considerations such as insurance, financing, and building codes can complicate the picture.
For more details on building a home, explore our cost to build a house guide or specific insights into metal building homes.
This comprehensive guide should serve as a starting point for anyone considering the construction of a barndominium, providing a clear picture of what to expect in terms of costs and planning.
