Owning a storage shed offers countless benefits. From organizing garden tools and lawn equipment to creating a workshop or home office, sheds add both function and value to your property. For many homeowners, investing in a durable shed is an easy, cost-effective way to expand storage space without major construction.
So, how much does a shed cost?
The average cost to build a shed in 2026 is about $3,500, though prices can range from around $800 to over $80,000. Pricing depends on factors such as materials, design, and size, as well as whether you choose a DIY shed, a shed kit, or a custom shed built by professionals. Use this guide to compare shed costs, understand key price factors, and plan your project confidently.
Shed Costs per Square Foot
The cost to build a shed ranges from $20 to $150 per square foot, depending on shed style, materials, and customizations. Larger custom sheds often require more labor, costing around $40 to $75 per square foot for professional installation.
Below are current cost ranges for common shed sizes, based on averages reported by HomeGuide and HomeAdvisor.
| Shed Cost Per Square Foot | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Size | Square Feet | Prefabricated | Custom | Common Uses |
| 4 x 6 | 24 | $240-$960 | $720-$3,800 | To store garden tools, fertilizer, and firewood |
| 6 x 6 | 36 | $360-$1,400 | $1,100-$5,800 | To store garden tools, fertilizer, and firewood |
| 8 x 8 | 64 | $640-$2,600 | $1,900-$10,200 | To store a wheelbarrow and furniture |
| 10 × 10 | 100 | $1,000-$4,000 | $3,000-$16,000 | To store a leaf blower, motorcycle, and storage |
| 16 x 16 | 256 | $2,600-$10,200 | $7,700-$41,000 | To store vehicles or convert to a small living space |
| 20 × 24 | 480 | $4,800-$19,200 | $14,400-$76,800 | To store a tractor or use as a small business space |
Different shed styles — from modern garden sheds to rustic she sheds — offer flexibility for every property type and design preference. Keep in mind that advanced shed plans or architectural designs can increase your total cost, especially for sheds that resemble miniature homes.
Additional Cost Factors
From building permits to materials and site prep, many details influence the overall cost of your shed building project. Below are the most common elements affecting your final price.
1. Purpose
How you plan to use your shed determines its size, design, and finish level. A simple storage shed for tools will cost far less than one intended as a home office or guest space. More advanced uses may require insulation, windows, or electricity — all of which raise the cost of your shed.
2. Materials
Most sheds are made of wood, vinyl, or metal — each with different pricing and durability. The average cost varies:
| Shed Cost by Material | |
|---|---|
| Material | Cost Range |
| Vinyl shed | $200-$5,000 |
| Metal shed | $500-$700 |
| Wood shed | $3,000-$15,000 |
| Brick shed | $3,200-$30,000 |
Metal sheds are the most durable and low-maintenance option, because they resist many pests, rot and decay, and fire damage. A lot of people like wood sheds because of their natural look, while vinyl sheds are affordable and energy-efficient. Always compare building materials and warranties before buying.
3. Foundation
A solid base supports your shed’s structure and prevents damage. A gravel pad costs around $1-$2 per square foot, while a concrete slab runs closer to $10-$12 per square foot.
Site prep, such as grading and clearing, may add additional costs of about $1 per square foot.
4. Customizations
Every customization — from extra doors to electrical wiring — affects your shed cost. Examples include:
| Cost of Shed Customizations | |
|---|---|
| Feature | Cost Range |
| Windows | $30-$450 each |
| Doors | $100-$1,500 each |
| Wiring | $254-$307 per wiring |
| Brick shed | $588-$716 per drain line installation |
| Insulation | $0.03-$6.75 per square foot (varies by type) |
Adding additional features like shelves, skylights, or shingles enhances comfort but increases labor time.
5. Labor
Expect labor costs to account for a significant portion of your shed’s total price. Contractors typically charge $50-$100 per hour. The total cost can range anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000, depending on the size and complexity of the shed.
This can include help with obtaining a building permit, site prep, or structural assembly. If you opt for a prefab shed kit, professional assembly usually adds $10-$20 per square foot.
6. Land Clearing
Clearing the build site will add anywhere from $1,266 to $3,900 to the overall cost of a new shed. This can involve everything from stump removal and grading to brush cleanup before installing a custom shed or prefab structure.
7. Electrical Installation
If you plan to power lights or outlets, factor in electrical wiring costs. A licensed electrician typically charges between $50 and $100 an hour for new installations.
What Affects Shed Cost Most?
Several factors have the biggest impact on your overall shed cost. The main ones are size, materials, and labor costs.
- Size. The larger the storage shed, the higher the total cost. Every extra square foot increases expenses for materials, foundation, and construction time.
- Materials. Choosing between wood, vinyl, or metal sheds affects both price and durability. Metal is the most cost-effective in the long term, while wood offers a classic look but needs more maintenance.
- Labor. If you hire professionals instead of building a DIY shed, labor adds significantly to the price — especially for complex builds or custom sheds with electrical wiring or plumbing.
- Customization. Add-ons like windows, insulation, or a unique shed style can raise the overall cost, but they also improve comfort and usability.
Understanding how these factors influence pricing helps homeowners plan a shed project that fits both their budget and purpose.
Custom Shed Cost Estimator
For affordability without sacrificing quality, look no further than steel storage sheds. Our high-quality, durable, and fire-resistant metal sheds are built to last and are easy to maintain. Customize the size, color, and layout to suit your property — from compact garden sheds to spacious she sheds.
Design your custom shed today with our 3D building tool and see how easy it is to create a cost-effective, long-lasting structure made to fit your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shed Costs
Still have questions about the cost of a shed? Here are a few answers to the most common concerns.
How long does it take to build a shed?
A DIY shed project can be completed in a weekend or two, while a custom shed with electrical or plumbing features may take up to three weeks. Prefab shed kits assemble faster and are ideal for beginners.
Do I need a permit to build a shed?
Most homeowners won’t need a building permit for small sheds. Larger or more complex shed builds, however, often require approval. Always check your local zoning and HOA rules before construction.
How much do shed repairs cost?
Repair costs vary by material. A wood shed might need siding replacement starting at $15 per square foot, while metal sheds are more durable and cheaper to maintain.
Is it cheaper to buy or build a shed?
If you’re handy with tools, a DIY shed saves money on labor costs. Shed kits are also budget-friendly and factory-direct, while custom sheds cost more but offer unlimited design flexibility and higher resale value.
Prefabricated (prefab) kits like metal sheds are usually much more affordable than custom-built sheds since they can be manufactured in a cost-effective way without wasting any materials. You can find a 12-foot-by-20-foot (12×20) prefab shed that costs around $4,000-$6,000, whereas a custom shed would cost $14,400-$36,000 for the same size.
