Have you been thinking about building a barndominium? You’re not alone. Barndominiums — the stylish blend of barn-inspired charm, open floor plans, and modern living — are popping up everywhere thanks to their affordability, durability, and wow-factor looks.

But how much does it cost to bring your dream barndo to life? In this post, we’ll break it down, provide detailed cost examples, and share a few smart tips to help you plan ahead and save money along the way.

Average Costs to Build a Barndominium

Average Costs to Build a Barndominium

While no two barndos are exactly alike, here’s a general cost guide to get you started:

  • Basic Barndominium Kit Build: Typically $70–$90 per square foot.
  • Custom or Luxury Barndominium: Can range from $150–$200+ per square foot.

For a 2,000-square-foot barndo, you might be looking at anywhere from $140,000 to $400,000, depending on your materials, design choices, interior finishes, location, and more.

Factors That Affect Your Total Cost

Several significant factors can swing the final price of your barndominium build:

  • Size & Square Footage: Bigger barndos naturally cost more, but the cost per square foot may decrease slightly as size increases.
  • Building Materials: Steel frames tend to be affordable and durable, while adding wood accents, stonework, or premium finishes can raise costs.
  • Foundation & Site Prep: Land clearing, grading, and pouring a concrete slab foundation can add significant upfront costs.
  • Interior Finishes: Open floor plans save money, but high-end kitchens, custom bathrooms, and luxury flooring can quickly raise the budget.
  • Labor: While DIYing parts of your build can save tens of thousands, hiring a full general contractor will almost always increase overall costs.

Example Cost Breakdown

Here’s a detailed example estimate for building a 2,400-square-foot barndominium:

ItemEstimated Cost
Steel Barndo Kit (Shell Only)$85,000
Concrete Slab Foundation$22,000
Framing & Structural Labor$18,000
Plumbing Rough-In & Fixtures$12,000
Electrical Rough-In & Fixtures$10,000
HVAC System (Heating & Cooling)$12,000
Insulation & Drywall$14,000
Flooring Installation$8,000
Kitchen Cabinets & Appliances$15,000
Bathroom Fixtures & Finishes$8,000
Interior Painting$5,000
Doors, Windows, and Trim$10,000
Septic System (If Needed)$6,000
Permits, Fees, and Utilities$8,000
General Contractor Fees (10–15%)$18,000–$25,000
Estimated Total$281,000 – $290,000

*Note: Costs can vary significantly depending on location, labor rates, and the level of interior customization.*

Tips to Save Money on Your Barndominium Build

Want to make the most of your barndo budget? Keep these tips in mind:
  • Choose a simple, efficient floor plan. Straight rooflines and rectangular layouts save thousands in both materials and labor.
  • Finish the interior yourself. DIYing painting, flooring, and minor trim work can dramatically reduce overall costs.
  • Shop smart for materials. Watch for sales, check reclaimed material yards, and negotiate with local suppliers.
  • Plan thoroughly before you start. Mid-project changes are costly. Lock in your layout, design, and materials upfront to avoid expensive surprises.
Tips to Save Money on Your Barndominium Build​

Conclusion

Barndominiums offer a unique and affordable path to owning a beautiful, custom home — but smart planning is the key to building the barndo of your dreams without breaking the bank.

 

Whether you’re just sketching out ideas or ready to break ground, knowing your potential costs upfront will help you stay on track and build with confidence.