Remodeling Costs Per Square Foot by Room

When you’re planning a renovation, knowing the average cost per square foot helps you make confident, informed choices, so your budget reflects your real priorities. While every project is unique, most renovations fall into a few general price ranges: 

• Basic cosmetic updates - $50–$100 per square foot
• Mid-range renovations - $100–$250 per square foot
• High-end, custom work - $250–$400 or more per square foot

These figures include materials, labor, and often design fees, but your final cost will depend on the details of your project, your location, and the choices you make along the way. For example, remodels in cities like New York or San Francisco usually cost more per square foot than similar projects in smaller cities or suburbs, where labor and materials are less expensive.

Remodel Cost Per Square Foot by Room

Kitchen

Average: $150–$400+ per sq ft

Kitchens are often the most expensive room to renovate on a per-square-foot basis. The biggest cost drivers are custom cabinetry, high-end appliances, and complex plumbing or electrical work, especially if you’re moving the sink or stove. Countertops, particularly in materials like quartz or natural stone, can also add significantly to the price, as can specialty features like under-cabinet lighting or built-in storage. 

Despite the investment, kitchen remodels tend to offer one of the highest returns on investment (ROI), with many homeowners recouping a substantial portion of their spend when selling. However, ROI can vary depending on your market and the quality of the finishes you choose.

Learn more in our guide How Much Does It Cost to Remodel Your Kitchen.

Bathroom

Average: $120–$350 per sq ft

Bathroom remodels sport one of the highest cost-per-square-foot, largely due to the need for skilled trades like plumbers and tile setters, as well as the expense of fixtures and waterproofing. Gutting a bathroom (removing all existing finishes and fixtures down to the studs) adds significant labor and disposal costs, but is often necessary for a full transformation or to address hidden issues. 

The most expensive elements are often custom tile work, luxury vanities, and high-end plumbing fixtures. Adding or relocating a shower or tub, or expanding the bathroom’s footprint, can quickly escalate costs. While bathroom remodels can offer a strong ROI, especially for primary or guest baths, over-customization or ultra-luxury finishes may not always pay off in every market. In smaller bathrooms, the cost per square foot can be even higher, since fixed costs are spread over a smaller area.

Learn more in our article A Complete Guide to Bathroom Renovation Costs.

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Living Room

Average: $40–$120 per sq ft

Living room remodels are typically less expensive per square foot, as they often focus on cosmetic updates like new flooring, paint, lighting, or built-in shelving. The biggest cost drivers are usually custom millwork, fireplace installation or upgrades, and high-end flooring materials.

If you’re opening up walls to create an open-concept space, structural work and rerouting electrical or HVAC can add significantly to the budget. While living room updates may not have the same direct ROI as kitchens or baths, they can dramatically improve the feel and function of your home, which can be a selling point for buyers.

Bedroom

Average: $40–$120 per sq ft

Bedroom renovations are generally straightforward, with costs driven by flooring, paint, lighting, and closet systems. Adding custom-built-ins, soundproofing, or new windows can increase the price, as can creating an en-suite bathroom or walk-in closet. 

Bedrooms rarely require the specialized trades that kitchens and baths do, which helps keep costs lower. While bedroom remodels may not offer the highest ROI, they can greatly enhance comfort and daily living, and well-designed storage or lighting can be a subtle but valuable upgrade.

Basement

Average: $70–$200 per sq ft

Basement renovations can range from simple finishing to full conversions with bathrooms, kitchens, or home theaters. The most expensive elements are often waterproofing, egress windows, and HVAC upgrades, all of which are essential for safety and comfort. 

Adding a bathroom or kitchenette will push costs higher, as will custom-built-ins or specialty flooring. Finished basements can add significant usable square footage to your home and are attractive to buyers, but ROI depends on the quality of the work and how well the space integrates with the rest of the house.

To dive deeper, read How Much Does Finishing a Basement Cost.

Sunroom

Average: $100–$300 per sq ft

Sunrooms are unique spaces that can serve as bright retreats, home offices, or entertaining areas. The biggest cost factors are often large windows or glass doors, climate control (like heating and cooling), and durable flooring that can handle temperature swings. 

Custom millwork, skylights, or retractable screens can also add to the price. While a sunroom might not deliver the same ROI as a kitchen, it can become a beloved retreat that adds daily value to your life.

Whole-Home Renovation

Average: $100–$250 per sq ft

A whole-home renovation brings economies of scale, but costs can add up quickly if you’re moving walls, updating systems, or choosing high-end finishes throughout. The most expensive elements are typically kitchens, bathrooms, and any structural or mechanical upgrades. 

Design and project management fees are also more significant in large-scale renovations. While a full renovation can transform a dated property and increase its value, the ROI will depend on your local market, the scope of the work, and how well the finished product meets buyer expectations.

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What Factors Influence Remodel Cost Per Square Foot?

Scope of Work

The extent of your renovation is one of the most significant factors in determining cost per square foot. Cosmetic updates, like painting, new flooring, or swapping out fixtures, are generally much less expensive than projects that involve moving walls, reconfiguring layouts, or updating plumbing and electrical systems. 

The more complex the work, the more trades and permits are required, which increases both labor and material costs. If your remodel includes structural changes or additions, expect the price per square foot to rise accordingly.

Material Choices

The materials you select have a direct impact on your overall budget. Premium options like hardwood flooring, natural stone countertops, or custom cabinetry can quickly escalate costs, while more standard materials, such as laminate, engineered wood, or stock cabinets, help keep expenses in check. 

Even within a single category, prices can vary widely; for example, tile can range from a few dollars per square foot to over $100 for designer or imported options. It’s important to balance your aesthetic goals with your budget, and to consider where splurging will have the most impact.

Labor Costs

Labor is often the largest single component of a remodel budget, and rates can vary dramatically depending on your location and the expertise required. Specialized trades, like electricians, plumbers, or tile setters, command higher rates, especially in urban areas or regions with a high cost of living. 

The complexity of the work also matters; intricate tile patterns, custom carpentry, or detailed finish work will take more time and skill, increasing labor costs. Always factor in the value of experienced, licensed professionals, as quality workmanship can prevent costly mistakes down the line.

Permits and Inspections

Most major renovations require permits and inspections to ensure the work meets local building codes and safety standards. Permit fees can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the scope of the project and your municipality. Inspections may be required at multiple stages, and failing to pass can result in delays and additional costs. 

While it may be tempting to skip permits for smaller projects, doing so can create headaches when it comes time to sell your home or if issues arise later.

Age and Condition of Home

Older homes often come with hidden challenges that can drive up renovation costs. Outdated wiring, plumbing, or structural elements may need to be brought up to code, which can add significant expense and complexity. Unforeseen issues, like asbestos, lead paint, or water damage, are more common in older properties and can require specialized remediation. Even newer homes can present surprises once walls are opened up, so it’s wise to set aside a contingency budget for the unexpected.

Design and Professional Fees

Working with architects, designers, or project managers can add to your upfront costs, but their expertise often pays off in the long run. Professional design can help you avoid costly mistakes, maximize your space, and ensure a cohesive look throughout your home. 

Fees for these services can range from a flat rate to a percentage of the total project cost, and may include everything from initial concepts to construction oversight. While it’s possible to DIY some aspects of design, complex projects benefit from professional guidance, especially when navigating permits, codes, and contractor coordination.

Geographic Location

Where you live has a major impact on the cost per square foot of remodeling. Urban centers like New York City or the Bay Area typically have higher labor and material costs than suburban or rural areas. Local demand, availability of skilled trades, and even climate can influence pricing. For example, a kitchen remodel in Manhattan will almost always cost more per square foot than a similar project in a Chicago suburb or a working-class neighborhood in Philadelphia. 

Always research local averages and get multiple quotes to understand what’s typical in your area.

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Bringing Clarity to Your Renovation Budget

Understanding the average remodel cost per square foot (by room and by region) gives you a practical framework for planning your renovation. While every project is unique, these benchmarks help you set a realistic budget, compare bids, and make confident decisions about where to invest.

Whether you're planning one room or your whole home, knowing the average costs per square foot helps you make confident, informed decisions. With the right guidance and the right team, your renovation can move forward with clarity and fewer surprises

If you’re ready to take the next step, Block Renovation connects you with experienced professionals who can guide you through every phase, from initial planning to the final walkthrough, ensuring your renovation is as smooth and transparent as possible.

Ready to start your renovation journey? Block Renovation is here to help you bring your vision to life, one square foot at a time.