Barndominium costs range from $5,000–$350,000. This guide overviews the key factors that influence these expenses and provides practical tips to save on your project.
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.
Building a Barndominium: Cost Breakdown
The total cost of a barndominium typically falls between $5,000 and $350,000 or $65 to $160 per square, but here’s a breakdown of the key components that typically impact the cost of constructing a barndo:
| Items & Construction Work | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Building shell/kit | $45,000 | $48,000 |
| Foundation | $58,000 | $60,000 |
| Interior structure | $4,000 | $5,000 |
| HVAC | $7,000 | $8,000 |
| Plumbing | $6,000 | $9,000 |
| Electrical systems | $4,000 | $6,000 |
| Drywall/interior | $4,000 | $6,000 |
| Insulation | $6,000 | $9,000 |
| Flooring | $3,000 | $4,000 |
| Roofing | $5,000 | $11,000 |
- Shell Cost: Covers the basic structure without interior finishes.
- Foundation: Includes concrete and excavation for the base construction.
- Interior Finishes: Involves flooring, walls, insulation, and painting.
- HVAC and Plumbing: Provides heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and plumbing systems.
- Electrical Systems: Encompasses wiring, lighting, and outlets.
- Drywall/Interior: Involves installing drywall for the garage walls and ceilings.
- Insulation: Includes materials and installation for temperature regulation.
- Flooring: The selection and installation of flooring materials.
- Roofing: Materials and labor for constructing the roof.
- Kitchen and Bathroom Costs: Includes appliances, cabinets, countertops, and fixtures.
Barndominium Costs by Size
Size and square footage play a big role in determining overall costs. Naturally, larger barndos come with higher expenses due to the increased need for materials and labor.
As your barndo’s square footage grows, so do the costs for everything from the building shell to interior finishes and essential systems like HVAC and plumbing.
| Size/ sq. ft. | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| 30×40 (1,200 sq. ft.) | $36,000–$60,000 |
| 40×60 – (2,400 sq. ft.) | $72,000–$120,000 |
| 50×80 (4,000 sq. ft.) | $120,000–$200,000 |
| 50×100 (5,000 sq. ft.) | $150,000–$250,000 |
Additional Cost Factors of Barndominiums
Many other factors can influence barndo construction costs.
Beyond basic construction, considerations like labor,
materials, and location options can affect your budget.
To avoid surprises, explore the other expenses you should consider when building a barndo below:
Location
The place you choose to construct your barndo can impact material costs, labor rates, and permitting fees. Material prices can shift based on local availability, while labor rates differ widely from one region to another. Permitting fees are also often determined by local regulations.
Labor
The average cost of labor when building a barndo will typically lie around $160 per hour. Hiring a licensed contractor will change based on state and region, but professional assistance is often necessary, even for DIY projects, especially for tasks like electrical and plumbing work.
Materials
Your choice of materials—whether you’re building a shed, garage, carport, or barndo—influences the overall costs. Wood offers a traditional look but can be more expensive and require more maintenance. Meanwhile, metal buildings are generally more durable and cost-effective.
Customizations
Adding custom features like porches, decks, or high-end interior finishes will elevate the price of your barndo. These enhancements add both functionality and visual appeal, but they also come with additional costs for materials and labor, impacting your budget.
Land Cost
If you don’t already own land, purchasing a lot will increase your budget. The cost of land can differ based on location, and additional expenses may include land-clearing services if the site is not already prepared for construction.
Permits
Remember that local regulations and fees for permits and inspections often add
up quickly. These costs depend on your area’s specific building codes and requirements, adding to the time and
expense of your project.
Site-Built vs. Barndominium Kit
Opting for a barndominium kit can be more cost-effective than building one from scratch. Kits typically range from
$30 to $50 per square foot and include pre-fabricated components, reducing labor costs and construction time.
Site-built barndominiums, however, offer greater customization but come at a higher price due to higher labor and
material costs.
How to Save on Barndo Construction Costs
Building a barndominium is a big investment, and every penny counts. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to keep costs down.
With a bit of planning and smart choices, you can create your dream home without overspending. Here are some practical tips to help you save on construction costs:
- DIY tasks: Taking on some tasks yourself can lead to substantial savings on labor.
- Material Choices: Opt for affordable yet durable materials like metal buildings, which we offer, providing strength and longevity at a lower cost.
- Open Floor Plans: Consider an open layout to minimize wall construction costs and create a spacious feel.
- Shop Around for Contractors: Obtain multiple quotes from contractors to compare prices and secure the best deal.
- Financing Options: Explore financing options such as construction loans or mortgages to manage your budget effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to build a barndominium?
Building a barndominium typically takes 3 to 6 months, but it can extend to 9 months or more due to factors like permit delays, custom designs, and weather. Although, proper time management and pre-made materials can shorten the timeline.
What is the average lifespan of a barndominium?
Barndominiums made of durable, heavy steel can last over 50 years with routine cleaning, repairing scratches, and tightening fasteners.
Where can I build a barndominium?
You can generally build a barndominium anywhere that allows residential construction. However, local zoning laws and building codes can vary. Before starting any project, check with your local government for specific requirements and restrictions.
Are barndominiums more expensive than houses?
No, barndominiums are generally less expensive to build than traditional houses. Traditional houses range from $158,572 to $478,600, while barndominiums typically cost between $5,000 and $350,000. However, final prices vary based on size, location, and finishes.
Should You Consider Building a Barndo?
Building a barndominium can be a cost-effective and efficient way to create your dream home.
While Alan’s Factory Outlet doesn’t manufacture barndominiums, we offer large metal buildings that meet various needs.
Start planning your barndominium today with our 3D design tool to help get yourself one step closer to bringing your garage or carport to life.
