A barndominium, or barndo, is a unique hybrid that blends the cozy living space of a home with the practical area of a barn or workshop. These charming homes have skyrocketed in popularity for their affordability, durability, and distinctive appeal.
Bringing your barndo vision to life starts with understanding the costs involved. This guide breaks down construction expenses, additional costs to plan for, and tips on saving to stay within your budget.
Barndominium Costs by Size
Square footage plays a major role in overall budget: as your barndominium’s size increases, the cost of everything from materials and labor to interior finishes and systems also grows. According to Angi’s latest data, the following are typical cost ranges by size, adjusted to reflect current building cost trends.
| Size (sq. ft.) | Typical cost range |
| ~1,200 | $112,800–$144,000 |
| ~2,400 | $225,600–$288,000 |
| ~3,000 | $282,000–$360,000 |
| ~3,600 | $338,400–$432,000 |
| ~4,200 | $394,800–$504,000 |
Below is a detailed breakdown of how individual construction costs might break down for a 1,200 sq ft barndominium, based on the figures above:
| Construction component | Approx. % of total cost | Estimated cost range (1,200 sq ft build) | Description |
| Foundation (slab) | 10% | $11,280–$14,400 | Concrete slab foundation, including site prep and labor |
| Building shell / kit | 25% | $28,200–$36,000 | Structural framing, metal panels, and exterior assembly |
| HVAC system | 6% | $6,768–$8,640 | Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning installation |
| Plumbing | 5% | $5,640–$7,200 | Piping, fixtures, and rough-in plumbing work |
| Electrical systems | 4% | $4,512–$5,760 | Wiring, outlets, lighting, and electrical panels |
| Insulation & drywall / interior finishes | 15% | $16,920–$21,600 | Insulation, drywall, paint, trim, and basic interior finishes |
| Flooring | 4% | $4,512–$5,760 | Materials and installation for vinyl, tile, or hardwood floors |
| Roofing & exterior finishing | 8% | $9,024–$11,520 | Metal roofing, exterior siding, windows, and doors |
| Interior structure / framing | 3% | $3,384–$4,320 | Partition walls and internal framing materials |
| Contingency / site prep / other | 20% | $22,560–$28,800 | Site grading, permits, custom upgrades, and unexpected expenses |
Additional Cost Factors of Barndominiums
Several factors influence barndominium construction costs, from location and labor rates to material selection and customization choices. Beyond the main structure, homeowners should also consider how additional expenses affect the total cost of their barndominium build.
To avoid unexpected surprises, explore the main cost factors that can impact your barndominium project below.
Location
Where you choose to build your barndominium can have a major impact on construction costs. Material costs vary by region depending on availability, while labor costs fluctuate based on local demand.
In areas like Texas and other rural areas, prices may be lower due to reduced overhead, though remote builds may require extra transport fees. Local building codes and zoning rules also affect permit pricing and processing times, so always factor in location-specific regulations when estimating your final cost.
Labor
The average cost of labor for a barndominium build typically falls around $160 per hour, though it varies by region and project scope. Licensed general contractors may charge more, but help ensure that the construction process meets all safety and code requirements.
Even DIY builders should plan for professional assistance with specialized work such as HVAC systems, plumbing, or electrical installations — especially in larger builds with extensive living space or advanced floor plans.
Materials
Material choice plays a major role in your overall barndominium cost. Traditional wood framing delivers a classic aesthetic but can require more maintenance over time. Metal buildings, on the other hand, offer durability, energy-efficient design potential, and lower material costs.
Whether you’re building a pole barn, post frame, or steel frame structure, each approach comes with different construction costs and benefits. A concrete slab foundation and high-quality roofing can also influence both price and longevity.
Customizations
Adding unique features to your barndo, like wraparound porches, lofted layouts, or high-end interior finishes, increases your total cost. While these customization options create a more comfortable and visually appealing living space, they also raise construction costs through extra labor and upgrades. If you’re designing custom floor plans, remember that every added feature impacts both your square footage and your final cost.
Land Cost
If you don’t already own property, purchasing land will naturally increase the cost of building your barndominium. Prices differ widely by region, especially in rural areas where utilities or road access might require additional setup. Clearing trees or grading uneven ground adds to additional costs, so factor in these site prep expenses early in your barndominium construction budget.
Permits
Permits and inspections are another key component of the barndominium construction process. Local authorities base these fees on building codes, project complexity, and location.
Skipping permits can delay your barndominium build or increase expenses later, so it’s best to budget for all required paperwork upfront. While these fees might seem small compared to your average cost per square foot, they contribute to the total cost of completing your project legally and safely.
Site-Built vs. Barndominium Kit
Choosing between a site-built barndominium and a barndominium kit affects both pricing and flexibility. A barndominium kit is typically more cost-effective, ranging from $30 to $50 per square foot, and includes prefabricated materials designed for easy assembly. This approach reduces labor costs and speeds up construction while maintaining strong energy-efficient performance.
On the other hand, a custom-built barndo allows for greater personalization — ideal for those wanting open floor plans, custom designs, or a turnkey dream home — but it generally raises both construction costs and the final price per sq. ft.
How to Save on Barndo Construction Costs
Building a barndominium is a major investment, and every penny matters. Fortunately, there are practical ways to reduce your overall barndominium cost without compromising quality or style. With smart planning and well-timed decisions, you can create your dream home while keeping construction costs under control.
Here are some proven strategies to make your barndominium build more cost-effective:
- DIY tasks. Handling smaller parts of your barndominium construction — such as painting, landscaping, or simple interior work — can lead to meaningful savings on labor costs. Just be sure to leave specialized work like HVAC systems, plumbing, and electrical to licensed professionals for safety and compliance.
- Material choices. Selecting durable yet affordable materials helps lower your total cost. Metal buildings are a great example — they offer strength, longevity, and low-maintenance benefits at a fraction of the cost of traditional homes. For barndos built on a concrete slab, choosing cost-efficient finishes can also make a big difference.
- Open floor plans. Designing open floor plans can minimize framing and drywall needs, reducing both material costs and labor time. Fewer interior walls create a larger living space without expanding your square footage, giving your barndo a spacious feel while keeping it cost-effective.
- Shop around for contractors. Get multiple quotes from reputable general contractors to compare rates and the scope of work. A bit of research ensures you’re paying a fair price for your barndominium project, whether it’s a barndominium kit or a fully custom build.
- Financing options. Look into financing options such as construction loans, mortgages, or lender partnerships to manage your construction costs over time. Spreading payments can help keep your barndominium build within budget while allowing room for future upgrades or customization options.
Should You Consider Building a Barndo?
Building a barndominium can be an affordable way to create a custom living space that fits your lifestyle.
While Alan’s Factory Outlet doesn’t build or sell complete barndominiums, we offer high-quality metal buildings — like garages, workshops, and storage units — that can serve as part of your barndominium construction plan or standalone property upgrade.
Start designing your custom metal building today at Alan’s Factory Outlet and take the first step toward creating your ideal barndo-inspired structure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Thinking about starting your barndominium build? Here are quick answers to common questions about barndominium cost, construction, and planning to help you take the next step confidently.
How long does it take to build a barndominium?
Most barndominiums take about 3 to 6 months to complete, depending on weather, permits, and customization. Using barndominium kits and prefabricated materials can reduce construction time and lower labor costs.
What is the average lifespan of a barndominium?
A well-maintained metal building barndominium can last 50 years or more. Regularly clean panels, check for scratches, and tighten fasteners to extend your barndominium’s lifespan and maintain its high-quality structure.
Where can I build a barndominium?
You can build a barndominium in most areas zoned for residential use. Always verify building codes and zoning regulations with local authorities before starting your barndominium construction project.
Are barndominiums more expensive than houses?
Generally, barndominiums are more cost-effective than traditional homes. While new houses can cost $158,000 to $478,000, a full barndominium build typically ranges from $112,800 to $504,000, depending on square footage, location, and interior finishes.
