Cost Per Square Foot Calculator
Calculate the exact cost per square foot and equivalent cost per square meter for any home purchase, renovation project, lease, or construction bid.
Project Cost & Area Inputs
Based on 2,000 sq ft (185.81 m²)
Cost Per Square Foot Formula
Cost Per Sq Ft = (Total Project Cost + Additional Fees) ÷ Area in Square Feet- Cost Per Square Foot ($/ft²) = Total Combined Cost ÷ Total Area (sq ft).
- Area in Square Meters (m²) = Area in Square Feet × 0.09290304.
- Cost Per Square Meter ($/m²) = Total Combined Cost ÷ Area in Square Meters (or Cost Per Sq Ft × 10.7639).
Step-by-Step Worked Example
Calculation Steps:
- Cost Per Square Foot = $350,000 ÷ 2,000 sq ft = $175.00 per sq ft
- Convert Area to Metric: 2,000 × 0.09290304 = 185.81 m²
- Equivalent Cost Per Square Meter = $350,000 ÷ 185.806 m² = $1,883.68 per m²
How to Use This Calculator
- 1Enter the total property price, contractor quote, or project cost.
- 2Enter the total area in square feet (must be greater than zero).
- 3Optionally add any permit fees, closing costs, or upgrade charges to see the all-in cost per square foot.
Assumptions & Limitations
- Validates that square footage is strictly greater than zero before dividing.
- Uses the exact international foot definition (1 ft = 0.3048 m, 1 ft² = 0.09290304 m²).
Frequently Asked Questions
Does home cost per square foot include the garage and unfinished basement?
In standard US real estate appraisals (ANSI Z765), price per square foot is calculated using Gross Living Area (GLA)—which includes finished, heated above-grade space and excludes garages, patios, and unfinished basements.
How do you convert cost per square foot to cost per square meter?
Multiply the cost per square foot by 10.76391 (since 1 square meter equals 10.76391 square feet).
Why do smaller rooms or homes often have a higher remodeling cost per square foot?
Fixed contractor mobilization fees, permits, plumbing rough-ins, and cabinetry spread over a smaller square footage result in a higher per-square-foot unit price.
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