Typical costs range from $6 to $12 per square foot.
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Most hardwood flooring projects cost homeowners around $6 to $12 per square foot,* averaging $6,000 to $23,000 for a 1,000 square foot room. Hardwood flooring offers an elegant, classic look, but installing it can be a substantial investment. This guide explores the factors that affect hardwood flooring costs, such as floor size and wood type, to help you better understand this home improvement project.
*All cost figures in this article are based on 2024 reports from The Home Depot, Angi, and HomeGuide.
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Hardwood Flooring
The average cost of hardwood flooring is around $6 to $12 per square foot.
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Carpet installation costs, on average, around $3–$11 per square foot.
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Tile floor installation, on average, can range from $8 to $44 per square foot.
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The national average cost of installing hardwood floors is $3 to $13 per square foot for the flooring and $3 to $8 per square foot for labor, totaling $6 to $21 per square foot. Your total cost varies based on factors such as the area size, the type of wood chosen, and any additional services required for installation.
Project size is one of the most significant hardwood flooring installation cost factors. The table below shows what you may pay depending on how much flooring you want replaced.
Size by Square FeetAverage Cost500
$3,000 to $11,500
1,000
$6,000 to $23,000
1,500
$9,000 to $34,500
2,000
$12,000 to $46,000
2,500
$15,000 to $57.500
3,000
$18,000 to $69,000
The other significant cost factor is the type of hardwood flooring. Solid hardwood and engineered hardwood are the two most common types. In addition to cost per square footage, some key differences exist between different hardwood flooring options that we break down below.
Solid hardwood flooring
embodies timeless sophistication and
durability
. This option uses a single, solid piece of wood and offers more longevity. Its natural beauty and the ability to
refinish
it makes it a wise investment if you want to add value to your home.
Engineered hardwood uses multiple layers of real wood and high-quality plywood that delivers exceptional stability and resistance to moisture and temperature fluctuations.
Engineered wood
captures the allure of hardwood while offering a practical solution that adapts to various environments.
Prefinished
hardwood flooring focuses on convenience without compromising style. It features a protective finish and arrives ready for installation, eliminating the need for on-site finishing.
Faux
parquet
hardwood flooring replicates the charm of a traditional
parquet
floor at a fraction of the cost. It uses materials like laminate or luxury vinyl for
durability
and easy maintenance. It’s appealing for
homeowners
seeking a sophisticated aesthetic with modern practicality.
Parquet
hardwood flooring is a captivating display of small wood pieces arranged in geometric patterns.
Parquet
flooring is renowned for its timeless appeal and for creating a luxurious focal point.
There are a handful of additional costs you should know about before starting your project. They include the following:
Additional services such as removing
old flooring
, leveling the
subfloor
, replacing
underlayment
, or installing baseboards can add to the
overall cost
.
Labor costs
vary depending on the installation’s complexity and the installer’s experience. Some installers charge a flat rate, while others charge by the hour.
The
flooring material
’s quality can impact the
total cost
. The most common grades you encounter when floor shopping are Prime Grade (AB) and Select Grade (ABC). These grades reflect certain flooring characteristics, such as the number of knots. Higher material grades will cost more up-front but are exceptionally
durable
.
The type of installation can impact your
project’s cost
. A glue-down installation, often used for
plank flooring
, may be more expensive than a nail-down installation for
solid wood flooring
. Replacing
existing hardwood floors
will also cost less than putting in
new hardwood floors
during a new home construction.
The wood you choose for your hardwood flooring can significantly impact costs.
High-end
,
exotic woods
such as
hickory
,
Brazilian walnut
, or
teak
can cost more than common woods like
red oak
or maple.
You may want to upgrade your floors on your schedule, but if you notice any of the signs listed below, you’ll want to start your replacement sooner rather than later.
If you notice that some of your hardwood planks are cracked, warped, or buckled, it may be a sign that the floor needs replacing.
If you notice mold growth on your hardwood floors, it may indicate excessive moisture and the need for replacement.
If scratches,
dents
, or other surface damage have rendered your hardwood floors irreparable, you should replace them.
If you notice
signs of termite damage
, such as small holes or sawdust on your hardwood floors, it may be a sign that the floor needs replacing.
If you can see the nail heads on your hardwood floors, it may be a sign that the floor has been sanded too many times and needs replacing.
If your hardwood floors have been exposed to water and have dark stains or feel soft, it may be a sign that the floor needs replacing.
Consider the following benefits and drawbacks before installing hardwood floors.
➕ Increases property value
➕ Improves air quality and doesn’t trap dust or allergens
➕ Provides durability for 30+ years
➖ Features a higher initial cost than other flooring options
➖ Expands or contracts during extreme temperature changes
➖ Warps due to moisture exposure
Opting for a hardwood flooring professional guarantees you have a seasoned installer who performs safe and correct installations. Professional flooring contractors complete projects swiftly, and many offer warranties that safeguard the investment and provide recourse for any unforeseen issues.
A do-it-yourself (DIY) hardwood flooring installation can lead to cost savings, which is particularly appealing to budget-conscious homeowners. However, a DIY project is best suited for simpler projects and individuals with some flooring experience. Hardwood flooring demands meticulous precision, and errors can occur even with the right tools. Therefore, we recommend you seek professional installation as it outweighs the perks of a DIY job.
A professional hardwood flooring installation elevates your home and guarantees sturdy and aesthetically pleasing flooring for decades. We recommend gathering at least three quotes from flooring experts to compare pricing and options closely. Our tool below instantly connects you with reputable and reliable flooring companies in your area.
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Yes, hardwood floors offer an excellent return on investment (ROI) due to their durability and potential to increase resale value. They can withstand heavy foot traffic and are less prone to wear and tear than other flooring options. Additionally, hardwood floors offer a natural warmth and elegance that can enhance the overall ambiance of a space.
Don’t install wood floors in rooms with high moisture levels, such as bathrooms and laundry rooms. Wood is susceptible to water damage, leading to warping, swelling, and deterioration.
You shouldn’t schedule hardwood floor installation during the hotter and more humid months of the year. Hardwood flooring will absorb moisture from the air, which causes it to expand and swell.
No, hardwood floors only require regular maintenance to preserve their appearance and durability. While they’re durable, they can be sensitive to moisture and scratches. Routine care involves sweeping or vacuuming to remove debris, cleaning up spills, and using rugs in high-traffic areas.
Written by
Tara Farmer
October 19, 2023
Edited by
Kristen Cramer
Fact-checked by
Tom Grupa
New flooring costs $4 to $15 per square foot total on average to install or replace. The cost of flooring depends greatly on the flooring type and the condition of the space. Flooring material prices range from $1 to $50 per square foot. Flooring labor costs $2 to $8 per square foot.
Average floor installation cost Floor size (square feet) Average total cost installed 200 $800 – $3,000 500 $2,000 – $7,500 1,000 $4,000 – $15,000 1,200 $4,800 – $18,000 1,500 $6,000 – $22,500 1,700 $6,800 – $25,500 2,000 $8,000 – $30,000 2,500 $10,000 – $37,500 3,000 $12,000 – $45,000 A worker installing new flooring in a homeGet free estimates from flooring companies near you.
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Flooring prices vary greatly depending on the material. The table below shows a breakdown of material and total installation costs for several types of flooring.
Flooring types and prices Material Material cost perHardwood flooring costs $11 to $25 per square foot with installation, depending on wood species and thickness. Pine, maple, and bamboo are the most affordable, while high-end mahogany, cypress, and teak cost the most. Solid hardwood is among the pricier flooring types but can last for generations with proper care.
Engineered wood flooring costs $7 to $20 per square foot installed and is made of a composite core topped with a thin layer of solid wood veneer. Engineered wood is more affordable than solid hardwood but the number of times it can be refinished is limited due to the thin top layer.
Home with brown hardwood flooringBamboo flooring costs $7 to $17 per square foot installed, depending on the type, quality, and installation method. Bamboo is a durable, low-maintenance, sustainable, and eco-friendly flooring choice. However, bamboo's porous surface is not ideal for wet-prone areas like bathrooms and kitchens.
Laminate flooring installation costs $4 to $14 per square foot and offers a stone, tile, or wood look at a much lower price point. Laminate flooring is easy to install, low maintenance, and scratch and stain resistant, but it's also difficult to repair and not suitable for humid spaces.
A home with laminate flooring and a fireplaceVinyl flooring installation costs $2 to $10+ per square foot for materials and labor. Vinyl sheets are the cheapest but also the least durable. Vinyl planks and tiles cost more but typically look better and last longer.
Luxury vinyl tile and luxury vinyl plank flooring cost $4 to $16 per square foot installed. Also called LVT or LVP flooring, these options are thicker and more durable than standard vinyl flooring.
Linoleum flooring costs $3 to $11 per square foot with installation, depending on the quality and type. Linoleum sheets fall at the low end of the range and are the most difficult to install. Linoleum planks and tiles cost more but are easier to install and longer lasting.
A worker installing vinyl plank flooring in a home.The cost to install a tile floor ranges from $10 to $50 per square foot, depending on the tile material, local labor rates, and the installation complexity. Popular budget-friendly choices include ceramic and porcelain. High-end options like glass and stone are also common.
A new kitchen with stone tile flooringTerrazzo flooring costs $20 to $50 per square foot installed and is made by mixing chips of materials like glass, marble, and quartz into an epoxy or cement base. This unique, seamless, customizable flooring is among the priciest flooring types, but also outlasts most other flooring materials.
Marble flooring costs $10 to $40 per square foot with installation. Marble tiles alone average $5 to $20 per square foot but some higher-grade tiles reach $40+ per square foot. However, marble grading is based more on color than quality, so some lower grade options offer good quality at a better price.
Including materials and labor, carpet installation costs $2 to $8 per square foot. The carpet material, style, quality, and installation difficulty impact the total price. Though not as popular in recent years, carpeting is comfortable under foot and still a common choice for bedrooms, finished basements, and offices.
For semi-enclosed areas like a deck, patio, or porch, indoor-outdoor carpet costs $1.00 to $5.50 per square foot installed.
Pouring a concrete slab costs $6 to $12 per square foot for labor and materials, depending on the grade and thickness. Concrete slabs are typically used for patios, sheds, and garage floors and can have several different looks and finishes.
Stamped concrete costs $8 to $19 per square foot with installation, including pouring the slab.
Polished concrete floors cost $3 to $15 per square foot total, not including the slab.
Sealing concrete costs $1 to $3 per square foot.
Epoxy flooring costs $4 to $10 per square foot for materials and labor. Epoxy is a type of resin that coats an existing concrete floor for a smooth, glossy finish that is durable and easy to clean. However, epoxy floors takes a while to cure and are not suitable for extreme temperatures.
White epoxy kitchen floorsCork flooring costs $5 to $15 per square foot installed. This naturally mold-resistant insulating flooring is soft but firm under the foot and quiet to walk on. Cork flooring may be glued down or floating and lasts 15 to 40+ years, depending on the quality and care.
Whether you refloor your whole house at once or tackle it one room at a time, the cost to replace flooring varies from room to room, depending on the size of the space and the flooring type you choose. The table below shows the average flooring replacement cost for each room.
Flooring replacement cost by room Room Typical size (square feet) Average replacement cost* Bedroom 100 – 240 $400 – $3,600 Bathroom 40 – 50 $200 – $800 Basement 300 – 2,000 $1,200 – $30,000 Kitchen 64 – 200 $300 – $3,000 Living room / family room 200 – 320 $800 – $4,800 Laundry room 35 – 100 $140 – $1,500 Entryway / foyer 36 – 120 $150 – $1,800*Many contractors have a $200 to $500+ minimum project fee.
The cost to install flooring in a bedroom depends on the room size and the flooring type. Carpeting is a common choice for bedrooms as it's cost-effective and comfortable underfoot. Still, some people prefer to carry hard flooring throughout the home.
Bedroom flooring cost by type Flooring type Total cost – average bedroom (100 – 144 SF) Total cost – primary suite (192 – 240 SF) Carpet $200 – $1,200 $400 – $1,900 Engineered wood $700 – $2,900 $1,300 – $4,800 Hardwood $1,100 – $3,600 $2,100 – $6,000 Laminate $400 – $2,000 $800 – $3,400 Luxury vinyl (LVP or LVT) $400 – $2,300 $800 – $3,900 Standard vinyl $200 – $1,700 $400 – $2,900Bathroom flooring cost ranges from $200 to $800+, depending on the flooring type and the bathroom square footage. Porcelain tile is the most common bathroom flooring choice. Vinyl is a popular low-cost and DIY-friendly option.
The average cost to retile a bathroom is $800 to $3,800, or $7 to $25 per square foot.
A complete bathroom remodel costs $120 to $275 per square foot for materials and labor.
To save on the labor, a DIY bathroom remodel costs $70 to $100 per square foot.
If you are installing flooring in a small bathroom, consider combining this job with other projects as most contractors have minimum project fees.
Bathroom with large floor tiles and a tiled walk-in showerKitchen flooring costs $300 to $3,000. The total cost depends on the size of your kitchen and the flooring type you choose. Kitchen flooring should be durable, comfortable, waterproof or water resistant, and easy to clean.
The table below shows the average price ranges for some of the most popular flooring choices for kitchens.
Kitchen flooring cost by type Flooring type Average installed costA full kitchen remodel costs $150 to $250 per square foot, including updating the floors.
Replacing the flooring in a living room or family room costs $800 to $4,800 on average, depending on the size and flooring type. Carpet is a common living room flooring choice since it's warm and comfortable, but hard flooring like wood, laminate, and vinyl are on trend and easy to maintain.
Living room flooring cost by type Flooring type Average installed costAs with every room, basement flooring cost varies widely depending on the type of flooring and the size of the space. For storage-only basements, vinyl sheet flooring is a budget-friendly choice. Choose something more comfortable and durable if you're converting the basement to a living space.
Basement flooring cost by type Flooring type Average installed costBasement flooring should be waterproof or water-resistant unless the space is finished and sealed.
The biggest factors affecting the cost of new flooring are the type of flooring and the size of the project. The table below shows a breakdown of average labor and material costs, but these ranges vary depending on the flooring you choose and the complexity of the job.
New flooring cost estimator Factor Average cost per square foot Materials $2 – $7 Labor $2 – $8 Total installed cost $4 – $15Other factors that influence the cost include:
Material quality – Higher quality flooring costs more but typically lasts longer than lower cost materials.
Stairs – Installing flooring on stairs is challenging and adds to the cost. Carpeting a staircase costs $150 to $600 on average but ranges from $10 to $45 per step, depending on the style and difficulty.
Hazardous materials:
Mold removal costs $15 to $30 per square foot.
Asbestos removal costs $4 to $15 per square foot.
Sealant or finish – Floors like concrete, natural stone, and wood typically require sealing to complete the installation. Some companies include this in the flooring estimate.
DIY vs. professional installation – Installing a floor yourself saves on labor cost, but keep in mind most flooring installation requires a skilled hand to ensure things are done safely and correctly. You'll also need to factor in extra tools and supplies if you go the DIY route.
Flooring labor costs $2 to $8 per square foot on average, but the cost can go as low as $0.50 per square foot for carpet installation to as high as $20 per square foot to install heavy tile or poured terrazzo that take much more time and skill.
Additional labor costs may include:
Relocating furniture – Some installers include moving furniture in their initial estimate. Otherwise, plan to pay $25 to $75 per room extra if you don't move the furniture before the installation.
Removing the existing floor – The cost to remove and dispose of old flooring depends on the material type and the amount to be disposed.
Carpet removal costs $0.70 to $1.60 per square foot, or $140 to $320 per room.
Tile removal costs $2 to $7 per square foot, or $200 to $1,400 per room.
Installing an underlayment
An underlayment costs $0.50 to $3.50 per square foot installed and is typically needed under linoleum, laminate, vinyl, and hardwood.
Carpet padding costs $0.75 to $1.75 per square foot installed and serves to insulate, protect the subfloor, and make the carpet more comfortable to walk on.
Repairs
The cost to replace a subfloor is $2.20 to $4.75 per square foot for materials and labor. Repairing or replacing the subfloor may be necessary to provide a solid, level surface for the new flooring.
Hardwood floor repair costs $2 to $20+ per square foot, depending on the material and damage.
When you install new flooring, the finishing details can make a significant difference in the look and feel of the end result. Consider these additional projects when planning your new floors.
Baseboards & trim – Interior trim costs $4 to $10 per square foot installed or $350 to $1,200 per room.
Heated floors – Radiant floor heating costs $7 to $17 per square foot with installation and offers a quiet, efficient, heating source that increases comfort, home value, and lasts 30 to 50 years.
If you are installing new flooring in part of your home and leaving hardwood in others, consider refinishing to carry the like-new feel throughout the house. The cost to refinish hardwood floors is $1.50 to $7.00 per square foot.
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Floor heating system layers of flooring insulation for heatingThere are many benefits to new flooring installation, especially if your existing flooring is old and worn. Installing new flooring can:
Improve the home's overall appearance
Increase the property value
Improve your comfort level and mood
Reduce allergens (when replacing old carpet)
Increase the home's efficiency
Carpet can help keep the home warm during cold months. Stone, tile, or wood can help the home feel cooler in warmer climates.
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New flooring installation can be a costly but rewarding venture. Follow these tips to help reduce the project cost:
DIY wherever possible.
Move your own furniture and clear the space before the installers arrive.
Speak with your contractor to see if there are ways to help with the installation and bring the cost down, like removing the old flooring yourself.
Split up the project. If the cost of reflooring your whole house is not feasible, split the installation up into smaller, room-by-room projects over time. Note, however, the installation cost per square foot may be higher on small projects as most contractors have minimum fees.
Shop around.
Check pricing and options locally and online and be on the lookout for sales.
Compare the cost to purchase materials yourself vs. your contractor's material pricing.
Choose simpler patterns and readily available, good quality options rather than rare materials or complex designs.
New flooring can increase home value, especially if your existing flooring is old, outdated, or shows significant wear. While the amount of added value depends on the floor type, quality, and the local market, new hardwood floors tend to have the biggest return on investment.
Signs your existing flooring may need replacement include:
You notice soft or spongy spots when walking on the floor.
The floor feels uneven, has loose tiles, gaps, or cracks.
The floor has permanent stains or deep scuffs and scratches.
The flooring feels very old and outdated.
Flooring installation takes 1 to 3 days on average. The new flooring type and the condition of the existing space impact the installation time. Removing old flooring and unexpected repairs may increase the timeline.
Some new flooring materials need to sit in the room for a day or more before installation to acclimate to the temperature and humidity. This step is vital to prevent future warping once installed.
Tipping floor installers is not expected, but a general guideline for high-quality service is $10 to $20 per person per day. Since flooring installation is an all-day, very physical job, consider offering snacks and making sure the installers have fresh water while they work rather than tipping them cash afterward.
Follow these guidelines when researching flooring installers near you:
Compare at least 3 estimates include the flooring, underlayment, and installation.
Hire a licensed, bonded, and insured flooring company that has been in business for 5+ years.
Read flooring installer reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
Ask for references and photos of past similar flooring installations.
Require a written contract and warranty before the work begins.
Avoid paying cash or making large upfront payments. Follow a payment plan for work completed instead.
Asking the right questions helps ensure you choose the best flooring companies near you for your project:
How long have you been installing flooring in this area?
Is your company licensed and bonded?
Do you have workman's comp and liability insurance?
Do you use formaldehyde-free glue during the installation process?
How long should the installation take?
What issues and additional costs might come up during installation?
What type of training do the installers have?
How will the flooring be finished at the edges where it meets other flooring?
How should I prepare my home for installers?
What exactly does the estimate include?
Who is my main point of contact during the installation, and who should I contact if there are problems after the installation?
What type of maintenance will this flooring require?
What does your warranty cover?
Do you submit the manufacturer warranty registration for me?
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