Building a house from scratch is an option many folks across the country are still patronizing. Perhaps, you are here because you are planning to build one in, say, Louisiana, yet wary about its overall cost.
If your answer is yes, then you are on the right page. This article covers everything—from the average land price to furnishings—that you need to know about the cost of home construction in Louisiana.
- In Louisiana the land price is relatively cheaper compared to its neighboring states.
- Moreover, the median price of home construction on a national level is around $286,418 (for 2,000 sq. ft.), which is $100 to $200 per square foot.
- The amount you will spend on labor will vary depending on the state or city you choose to build your house.
The Average Cost of Building a House in Louisiana
The average cost of building a house depends on a large number of reasons.
In Louisiana, for example, the land price is relatively cheaper compared to its neighboring states which could significantly lower the total spending compared to when you build a house in, say, New York or North Carolina. The labor, as well as the materials, may vary in price as well depending on the economic status of the state. For example, if the cost of living is high, then expect to pay more.
That being said, the average cost of building a custom house in house in Louisiana ranges between $95 to $141 per square foot. A basic construction, on the other hand, costs around $118 per square foot.Â
That being said, the average cost of building a custom house in house in Louisiana ranges between $95 to $141 per square foot. A basic construction, on the other hand, costs around $118 per square foot.
Moreover, the median price of home construction on a national level is around $286,418 (for 2,000 sq. ft.), which is $100 to $200 per square foot. But that is for a simple house structure only. If you prefer a high-end type of structure, then expect to spend around $500 per square foot for a custom-built house.
Average Cost Per City
The median price of a new home construction also varies in different cities in Louisiana. Some areas are relatively cheaper, while some (particularly bigger cities) are quite expensive.
That said, below are the average cost per square foot in some of Louisiana’s major cities.
| City | Average Cost (sq. ft) |
| New Orleans | $121 |
| Baton Rouge | $150 |
| Shreveport | $117 |
| Lake Charles | $120 |
Average Cost Per Square Foot
The estimated cost for home building differs per size, style, and design of the structure as well. So, to give you a general idea, here’s how much you will spend—as well as the amenities each structure entails—per square foot in Louisiana and other states.
- A 1,000 sq. ft entry-level structure. Including appliances such as microwave, stove, fridge, and a dishwasher, an entry-level house of 1,000 square feet will cost you an average of $149,000. This also comes with 3 bathrooms, 3 bedrooms, and a 2-car garage, and furnishings like kitchen cabinets and linoleum floors.
- A 1,400 sq. ft. home. Home of 1,400 square feet costs around $219,000 to build. This type of structure is commonly built with a 10-ft (or more) high ceiling, luxury fixtures, and a small back and front patio. It comes with 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and a 2-car garage, too.
- A 1,700 sq. ft. green home. Perfect for eco-conscious folks, a green home of 1,700 square feet costs around $240,000. It is built with all the mentioned amenities above and comes with the same furniture, appliances, and furnishings.
Factors that Affect the Overall Price of Home Construction
Several factors affect the overall price of new house construction. Starting from the land price down to house amenities, all of these would constitute the full cost of building a house in Louisiana.
Materials typically represent 50% of the overall house construction spending. It may also increase or decrease depending on the materials’ quality.
That being said, below is a list of prices for each (basic) material you will need for building a house in Louisiana.
- Roofing. Builders often use standard materials such as asphalt shingles when it comes to roofing. Not only durable, but it is also way cheaper compared to other kinds of roofing materials. Typically, you will spend between $5,500 and $11,500 for shingle roofing. In essence, the cost of the roofing will depend heavily on what type of material you prefer.
- Siding. The estimated cost for siding will depend significantly on the quality as well as there are sidings that are much more affordable in contrast to other types. For example, you can furnish your exterior walls using vinyl siding which usually costs $2 per square foot. Or you can also use a high-end type of siding such as stone for $30 per square foot.
- Cabinets and countertops. When it comes to countertops and kitchen cabinets, the overall price will be based on the design, style, and how intricate the process is. And for basic, builder-grade cabinets, the estimated spending would be around $6,000. You can also request custom-built cabinets but expect to spend more than the average. For countertops, on the other hand, the price starts at $2,000. The cheapest is laminate while granite, quartz, and marble, will cost you $100 per square foot.
- Doors and windows. The price for doors and windows will vary depending on what type and size. Interior doors, for instance, often cost around $250 while exterior doors cost between $400 to 4,000.
Windows, on the other hand, cost around $175 per window or more, depending on their style and complexity. - Flooring. For floorings, the average amount you will spend is usually between $6 to $10 per square foot, or roughly $1,500 and $4,500. But remember that the form of material will affect the total spending as some floorings are way higher in price compared to others.
The average cost for foundation and framing varies depending on different factors. But usually, the quality, as well as the size, dictates how much you will spend on this area.
Having said that the, the average cost you will have to spend on, for example, the house frame, would be around $20,000 to $50,000. The foundation, on the other hand, is between $4,000 to $25,000. However, if you are planning to add a basement, then expect to spend at least $110 to $300 per square foot; or $10, 000 to $30,000.
Installation of major systems such as insulation, electrical, and plumbing, would also cost you a significant amount of money. In Louisiana, the general amount ranges from $30,000 to $75,000. That amount already covers the three main systems although it could go lower or higher than that depending on your contractor.
That being said, here’s a rough estimate for each system:
- HVAC system: $1,500 to $13,000
- Electrical and wiring: $20,000 to $30,000
- Plumbing system: $7,000 to $15,000
Another factor that could significantly affect the overall cost of your home construction is the degree of your preferred finish.
For example, if you are looking for something minimalist or basic, then it would cost you about $90 per square foot only. However, if you want something luxurious—or you simply want to add fancy furnishing—then expect to spend between $100 to $1,000 per square foot.
That said, here’s a detailed breakdown for each level of finishing.
- Standard. For a standard type of finishing, first-time homeowners should prepare to spend around $175 to $262 per square foot. This level of finishing includes a modest quantity of furnishings such as low- to mid-end countertops, standard bathroom fixtures, standard light fixtures, lap siding, and basic roofing material.
- Midrange. For a mid-level type of finishing, the average cost per square foot ranges between $275 to $310. Its furnishing is slightly better and nicer than standard homes. Such a price already comes with energy-efficient windows, for example. It includes recessed lighting, high-end countertops, an upgraded bathroom, and quality hardwood flooring.
- High-end. As its name suggests, a high-end level of finishing will have you spending hundreds to thousands of dollars per square foot. And on average, the estimated cost ranges between $525 to $1,100. But high-end finishes include luxurious and modern tech such as heated driveway and flooring, automated blinds and speakers, slate roof shingles, and professional landscaping.Â
Average Labor Cost
The amount you will spend on labor will vary depending on the state or city you choose to build your house. In essence, a laborer’s hourly may differ depending on the state’s cost-of-living value or economic status. If the cost of living is high, then prepare to expect more than the average.
But in general, it would cost you about 30% of the overall house construction price.
That being said, below is an estimated cost for each labor in Louisiana,
- Framer rate: $7 to $16 per square foot
- Construction manager: $3,000 to $50,000
- Roofing rate: $5,000 to $10,000
- Electrician: $50 to $100 per hour
- Plumber: $45 to $200 per hour
Furthermore, do take note that for custom-built houses, the cost could be higher as the process is more intricate compared to a standard house structure.
Housing Loan Programs in Louisiana
Building a house from scratch is indeed financially overwhelming. If you are struggling financially, here are some programs local to Louisiana that can help you fund your dream house.
- Mortgage Credit Certificate. A program aimed specifically for low- to mid-level income first-time homebuyers, Mortgage Credit Certificate (MCC) provides a federal tax credit that can go as much as 40% of the yearly mortgage interest rates. Anyone can apply as long as the loaned house is the buyer’s primary residence.
- Mortgage Revenue Bond Program. MRB is a program that helps homebuyers (first-time or not) get financial support by giving down payments, closing cost assistance, and lower interest rates. However, the program only accepts applications from folks with a household income that is 80% or less than the area median income. The buyer needs to have a credit score of 640 too.
- Delta 100 Program. The Delta 100 program accepts applicants with zero credit history. Once approved, homebuyers will receive 100%financing and 3% of closing cost.
