Garage Remodel Costs in 2025: From Makeovers to Conversions

There are many reasons why you might be considering remodeling your garage: from increasing storage space and improving functionality, to boosting curb appeal and home value. In recent years, there’s even been a growing trend of renovating garages to create additional space to live, work, play, or rent out. 

If you’re ready to remodel your garage, it is important to begin by carefully considering your chosen type of remodel and renovation budget. Keep reading to learn more about the many factors that go into a garage remodel, including garage remodeling costs, ROI, and more.

Garage remodeling for different uses

Before estimating garage remodeling costs, ask yourself: Why do I want to remodel my garage? 

The end goal of how you want your garage to look and function will be your guiding light as you plan and kick off the remodel process. 

Some common uses for a remodeled garage include:

• Master bedroom
• Functional multi-use storage unit
• Workshop or practice space
• Home office conversion
• Converted gym
• Living quarters (also known as an ADU, or accessory dwelling unit)

Average cost to remodel a garage

Your costs involved in completing any renovation project will vary widely depending on a number of factors. We’ll go into more detail about those factors below, but first let’s take a look at the average totals you might expect when estimating your garage remodeling costs. 

We’ve broken down those total garage remodeling cost estimates into the following three remodel categories: cosmetic updates, full remodels, and full conversions.

Breakdown of common garage remodel expenses

Learn more about garage remodel expenses with this handy chart that breaks it down. Keep in mind that these are estimates, and your actual cost breakdown will depend heavily on the complexity of your project and average market rates in your area. 

Learn more: How to Plan Your Renovation Budget 

Factors influencing garage renovation costs

Your total garage remodeling costs will depend on a number of factors, including: 

• Garage size (per square foot)
• Scope of work (like the difference between a cosmetic update versus an ADU conversion)
• Quality and complexity of materials selected
• Legal permit requirements in your area
• Local market rates for labor and design fees

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Cost breakdown of common garage upgrades

Cost of replacing a garage door

On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $800 and $2,500 for a standard single-car garage door replacement, including installation.

Basic steel doors tend to be the most affordable option, while wood, composite, or custom-designed doors can significantly increase the price. Additional features such as insulation, windows, or smart technology integration will also add to the overall cost. Labor charges for professional installation typically range from $200 to $500, but this can be higher for more complex projects or if the existing door frame needs repairs.

When weighing the initial expense of a new garage door, it’s also important to consider the potential cost savings and strong return on investment (ROI) it can offer. Upgrading to a high-quality, insulated door can reduce your home’s energy bills by improving temperature control, especially if your garage is attached or serves as a living space. In addition to greater energy efficiency, a new garage door can boost your home’s security and dramatically enhance curb appeal. 

Many real estate experts consistently rank garage door replacement as one of the top home improvement projects for increasing property value, meaning your upfront investment can pay dividends if you decide to sell your home in the future.

Cost of replacing a garage floor

On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $1,500 and $4,000 for a standard two-car garage floor replacement using basic concrete. 

If you opt for upgrades such as epoxy coatings, decorative finishes, or interlocking tiles, the price can rise to $3,000–$7,000 or more. Additional expenses may be incurred if the old floor needs to be removed, if there are underlying structural issues, or if you require improved drainage.

Cost of replacing a garage floor

Insulating a standard two-car garage typically ranges from $1,000 to $2,500.

Pricing largely depends on whether you choose fiberglass batts, spray foam, or rigid foam panels. Spray foam insulation tends to be more expensive but offers superior energy efficiency and air sealing.Proper ventilation is also essential, especially if you plan to use your garage as a living space or workshop. Installing basic vents or an exhaust fan can cost between $200 and $700, while more advanced systems—such as powered attic ventilators or ductless mini-split systems for both ventilation and climate control—can add $1,000 to $3,000 or more to your project.

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Tips to save on garage remodel costs

For some aspects of your remodel, it’s best not to cut corners due to safety reasons. (Think: electrical upgrades, plumbing or HVAC installation, or proper demolition.) But there are other areas where you can take steps to lower your overall renovation expenses.

Here are some tips for how to reduce garage remodeling costs: 

• Prioritize needs over wants. Allocate your budget more effectively by identifying your essential needs for the space and prioritize those over less essential features. 
• Choose less expensive materials. Save money by choosing less expensive materials, like low-cost flooring or budget-friendly paint. Opt for ready-to-assemble storage cabinets instead of custom-built options, or use laminate countertops instead of granite or quartz. Even choosing standard light fixtures over designer brands can help keep garage renovation costs down.
• Remodel during the off-season. Remodel during the off-season (i.e., winter) to save on your project’s total cost of labor. 
• Limit structural changes. If you can work within the confines of your garage’s existing structure and layout, you’ll save more compared to making major structural changes. Moving walls, raising ceilings, or altering the garage door opening can significantly increase both labor and material costs, so sticking to the original footprint is often much more budget-friendly.      

ROI on garage remodels

Your average return on investment (ROI) for remodeling your garage depends on the scope of the project. Projects that add functional living space or improve storage tend to yield a higher ROI, while purely cosmetic makeovers may offer a lower return on your initial renovation costs. The quality of materials and the overall real estate market in your area can also impact how much value your garage remodel adds. That said, typically garage remodels have a mid-to-high ROI, ranging from an average return of 64%–81%. 

Check out the chart below for some of the most common garage remodel ROI estimates. 

Garage remodel case study

In this Berkeley, CA project, the homeowner sought to transform their existing detached garage. The scope included pouring new concrete floors, installing drywall on the walls and ceilings, and painting, all while staying within a $25,000 budget. No electrical work was required, allowing the focus to remain on creating a clean, finished space.

The cost of renovating your garage into additional living space

For some households, a garage can be put to better use as an in-law suite, home office, or other functional living space instead of just storing vehicles and tools. Garage conversions typically start at $10,000 but often approaches $50,000.

While consulting with multiple contractors is the best way to determine an accurate budget for your garage renovation, you can get a better idea of expected costs based on:

Existing garage size and condition 

Electrical and plumbing modifications

The existing electrical and plumbing setup in your garage will impact how much you need to invest in upgrades. If your garage only has basic outlets and lighting, you’ll need to budget for additional wiring, new circuits, and possibly an upgraded electrical panel to support living space needs. Heads-up: Adding plumbing for a bathroom or kitchenette—especially if none exists—can be one of the most expensive aspects of a conversion, often requiring trenching, new pipes, and permits.

Scope of transformation for the new living space

The existing electrical and plumbing setup in your garage will influence how much you’ll need to spend on upgrades. If your garage currently has only basic outlets and lighting, you should budget for extra wiring, new circuits, and possibly an upgraded electrical panel to meet the demands of a living space. Heads-up: Adding plumbing for a bathroom or kitchenette—especially if your garage doesn’t already have it—can be one of the most expensive parts of a conversion, often requiring trenching, new pipes, and permits. If you want your garage to be completely unrecognizable as a former garage, with finished walls, stylish flooring, and high-end decor, expect renovation costs to rise significantly. The more you invest in transforming the decor—such as adding drywall, custom lighting, or designer finishes—the higher your final budget will be. 

For additional insights, read How to Convert Your Garage into a Living Space.

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Renovate your garage with Block

Remodeling a garage can be a great way to add value to your home and create a space that you can use for storage, a range of everyday uses, or even attached living quarters. By working with a trustworthy general contractor and planning for your renovation, you can reduce the risk of overspending and get a good return on your investment.

Block Renovation has helped homeowners across the country—from the Bay Area to Chicago to Philadelphia—renovate their garages while staying within budget. We pair you with local contractors, all of whom have been carefully vetted for professionalism and relevant experience remodeling garages like yours. Plus, every homeowner also receives free access to a Renovation Consultant, who serves as a personal guide, assisting with cost estimates and arranging home visits.

Get a free consultation with Block, match with top quality contractors based on your project needs, and easily compare multiple quotes. We’re here to connect you with the resources you need to renovate confidently.

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