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How Much Does It Cost to Build a Barndominium?

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How Much Does It Cost to Build a Barndominium?
Modern barndominium exterior with metal siding, large windows, and covered porch in a rural setting
A finished barndominium combines a metal building exterior with residential design features like large windows and covered porches.
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Barndominiums have quickly become one of the most popular housing options for homeowners who want flexibility, durability, and long term value. But one of the most common questions people ask before starting is how much does it cost to build a barndominium?

The short answer is that barndominium costs vary widely depending on size, location, finishes, and whether you take a DIY or turnkey approach. This guide breaks down the real costs involved so you can budget accurately and avoid surprises.

Average Cost to Build a Barndominium

On average, most barndominiums cost between $100 and $150 per square foot for a finished home. This puts the total cost for a typical 2,000 square foot barndominium between $200,000 and $300,000.

Lower end builds that use basic finishes and owner labor can come in closer to $80 to $100 per square foot. Higher end barndominiums with custom interiors, premium materials, and contractor labor can exceed $180 per square foot.

The wide range exists because a barndominium is not a single product. It is a combination of a metal building shell and a residential interior buildout.

Barndominium cost per square foot infographic showing total price range for a 2,000 square foot home
Most finished barndominiums cost between $100 and $150 per square foot, putting a 2,000 square foot home between $200,000 and $300,000.

Barndominium Shell Cost

The metal building shell is the structural foundation of a barndominium. This includes the framing, roofing, siding, trim, and basic openings.

Most barndominium shells cost between $25 and $50 per square foot depending on roof style, wall height, snow or wind load requirements, and customization.

A basic 40×60 shell may cost $60,000 to $90,000 delivered. This price usually does not include slab, insulation, doors, or interior framing.

Metal barndominium shell under construction showing steel framing, roof panels, and concrete slab
A barndominium shell includes the steel framing, roof panels, siding, and basic openings before interior construction begins.
Metal building shell cost infographic showing price per square foot and total cost for a barndominium shell
The metal building shell for a barndominium typically costs $25 to $50 per square foot, depending on size and customization.

Interior Buildout Costs

The interior buildout is where barndominium pricing varies the most. This phase includes framing, insulation, drywall, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, flooring, cabinetry, bathrooms, and kitchens. Interior buildout costs typically range from $50 to $100 per square foot. High end finishes or complex layouts can push that number higher. Open floor plans tend to cost less, while multiple bedrooms, bathrooms, and custom features increase labor and material expenses.
Barndominium interior under construction with open floor plan, exposed framing, plumbing, and electrical rough ins
Barndominium interiors are built after the shell using wood framing, plumbing, electrical rough ins, and open floor plans.
Interior buildout costs usually range from $50 to $100 per square foot and include framing, insulation, plumbing, electrical, and finishes.

Concrete Slab and Foundation Costs

Most barndominiums use a slab foundation. Slab costs generally range from $5 to $10 per square foot depending on thickness, reinforcement, plumbing rough ins, and soil conditions. A 2,000 square foot slab typically costs between $10,000 and $20,000. Areas with expansive soil or frost depth requirements may require additional engineering.
Concrete slab foundation for a barndominium with rebar grid and plumbing rough ins
Most barndominiums are built on concrete slab foundations with rebar reinforcement and plumbing installed before the pour.
Barndominium slab foundation cost infographic showing concrete slab pricing per square foot
Concrete slab foundations generally cost $5 to $10 per square foot, with a 2,000 square foot slab totaling $10,000 to $20,000.

Land, Utilities, and Site Prep

Land costs vary by location, but buyers should also plan for site preparation and utility connections. Common costs include clearing, grading, driveway access, water well or connection, septic system, and electrical service. These expenses often add $15,000 to $40,000 to a project and can be higher in rural areas. Permits, engineering, and inspections should also be factored into the budget.
Barndominium land preparation cost infographic including clearing, grading, utilities, and site work
Land preparation, utilities, and site work often add $15,000 to $40,000 to the total cost of a barndominium project.

Labor vs DIY Savings

One reason barndominiums are attractive is the ability to save money through owner participation. Acting as your own general contractor or handling portions of the build can significantly reduce costs. DIY builds often save 20 to 30 percent compared to full contractor builds. However, mistakes or delays can offset savings if planning is not handled carefully. Many homeowners choose a hybrid approach by hiring professionals for plumbing, electrical, and HVAC while managing the rest themselves.

Barndominium vs Traditional Home Cost

In many regions, a barndominium costs less than a traditional stick built home. Conventional homes typically range from $150 to $250 per square foot, especially when labor shortages or material pricing increases. Barndominiums offer faster build times, lower maintenance, and more design flexibility, which contributes to long term cost efficiency.
Finished barndominium interior and exterior comparison showing metal building with modern farmhouse design
Barndominiums combine durable metal exteriors with warm, modern farmhouse interiors for both strength and comfort.

Cost Factors That Impact Your Final Price

Several variables directly affect how much your barndominium will cost:

  • Building size and layout
  • Roof style and pitch
  • Interior finishes and appliances
  • Local labor rates
  • Climate requirements for insulation
  • Permit and zoning regulations
Understanding these factors early helps prevent budget overruns.
Barndominium cost factors infographic showing size, layout, labor, climate, permits, and finishes
Barndominium pricing is affected by size, layout, roof style, interior finishes, labor rates, climate requirements, and permits.

Is a Barndominium Worth the Cost?

For many homeowners, a barndominium offers excellent value. Lower construction costs, durable materials, energy efficiency, and customizable layouts make it an appealing alternative to traditional housing. With proper planning, realistic budgeting, and professional guidance, a barndominium can deliver long term savings and flexibility without sacrificing comfort.

Disclaimer: Images displayed on this website may include digital renderings, simulated environments, or illustrative examples. Actual buildings, materials, colors, dimensions, and features may vary based on design selections, site conditions, engineering requirements, and local building codes. Images are provided for general visualization purposes only and are not intended to represent exact specifications or final construction outcomes.

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