Updated On

July 24, 2023

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    Whether it is through purchasing a pre-built structure or building a house from scratch, having a house to call your own is indeed financially overwhelming. It is particularly true now that the housing prices across the country continue to rise. And failure to prepare could eventually backfire in the end.

    As such, if you are planning to build a house it is crucial to assess and estimate first how much you would need to spend for the entire construction.

    That being said, this article covers everything you will have to prepare financially when building a house. 

    Highlights
    • But on average, on the other hand, building a house in Atlanta will cost you $127 per square foot, and ranges between $106 and $148.
    • The estimated cost of building custom houses is significantly different from that of a basic structure.
    • Another important factor in building a house are the systems. These include insulation, electrical, wiring, and plumbing.
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    The Average Cost of Building a House in Atlanta

    The average price of building a house in Atlanta is based on not only one or two factors, but several of them. These include the labor, the quantity as well as the quality of materials, and even housing miscellaneous things such as construction permits and land preparation. 

    But on average, on the other hand, building a house in Atlanta will cost you $127 per square foot, and ranges between $106 and $148. And that is quite a deal as the average price of a new home construction on a national level is between $100 to $200 per square foot. Or a total of $283,415. 

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    But do take note that for such a price, the structure is basic only, and without furnishing. And if you wish to add a few or a complete furnishing, then expect to spend more.

    Average Cost of Custom-built Houses in Atlanta

    The estimated cost of building custom houses is significantly different from that of a basic structure. And unlike the latter, the aspects affecting the overall price of a custom-built home are also different. Its price is largely determined by the house’s style and design as well as the preferred degree of interior and the exterior finishes of the house.

    But generally, a custom-built house in Atlanta will cost you around $500 or more per square foot. And that’s already a lot more expensive compared to a basic structure. Not to mention that the pay for architect and professional interior designer is excluded from the $500. 

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    That said, you will have to pay $15,000 to $80,000 (roughly 8% to 15%) for the architect. You will need around $30,000 to $50,000 (roughly 10% to 17%) to hire a professional house designer as well.

    Overall, custom-built houses are significantly higher in price compared to building a basic structure.

    Average House Construction Cost in Atlanta’s Neighboring Cities

    When it comes to the average price of new home construction in Georgia, the cost differs in every city. A lot of factors could influence it. But primarily, the town’s cost of living would largely affect it. 

    That said, below is a list of some of Georgia’s cities—including Atlanta—along their estimated average cost to build a house. 

    CityAverage Cost (per sq. ft.)
    Atlanta$106 to $148
    Augusta$92 to $137
    Columbus$91 to $135
    Savannah$93 to $137

    Note: All information is based on Pro-Matcher’s House Construction Cost Report.

    Home Building Cost Breakdown

    As mentioned, there are several aspects that could influence the overall cost of building a house. So, to give you a general idea, I listed down below some of the major housing factors you need to spend on.

    Materials

    In building a house, the biggest chunk that will occupy the overall construction price is the materials. It will, at least, take 50% (roughly $50 per square foot) of the whole cost. Or even more. 

    However, keep in mind that the quality of the materials will influence the total amount you will spend on the materials alone too. Wall sidings, for instance, come in different types of materials with different quality as well as prices. Vinyl sidings, for example, are cheaper compared to stone, wood, and even aluminum. Its price ranges between $2 and $5 per square foot only, while the others cost around $35 to $50 per square foot.

    Having said that, below are the basic house construction materials along with their average market price. 

    MaterialAverage Price
    Concrete$1,000 to $10,000
    Lumber$25,000 to $65,000
    Flooring$1 to $5 per square foot
    Drywall$10 per sheet
    Roofing$1,000 to $3,000
    Siding$2 to $15 per square foot
    Insulation$0.10 to $1 per square foot

    Labor

    When it comes to building a house in Atlanta, the total labor expense depends on a number of aspects. These include the contractor’s purchasing power and credibility, the size of the house, as well as the structure’s design complexity.

    On average, however, you will spend roughly $70,000 in labor fees only. And that is about 30% to 60% of the overall house construction cost. 

    On the other hand, keep in mind that the said cost may change according to the state or city’s cost of living. Some states such as New York have a higher cost of living compared to Texas and Kentucky. Hence, the labor fee for when you build in New York is higher.  

    That being said, below is an estimated cost for each construction job in Atlanta:

    • 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
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    Installation of Major Systems

    Another important factor in building a house are the systems. These include insulation, electrical, wiring, and plumbing. And in Atlanta, the labor fee for the installation, as well as the materials, can cost you around $30,000to $75,000. 

    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
    Editorial Contributors
    avatar for Matt Greenfield

    Matt Greenfield

    Matt Greenfield is an experienced writer specializing in home improvement topics. He has a passion for educating and empowering homeowners to make informed decisions about their properties. Matt's writing focuses on a range of topics, including windows, flooring, HVAC, and construction materials. With a background in construction and home renovation, Matt is well-versed in the latest trends and techniques in the industry. His articles offer practical advice and expert insights that help readers tackle their home improvement projects with confidence. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a seasoned professional, Matt's writing is sure to provide valuable guidance and inspiration.

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    Roxanne Downer

    Editor

    Roxanne Downer is a commerce editor at Today’s Homeowner, where she tackles everything from foundation repair to solar panel installation. She brings more than 15 years of writing and editing experience to bear in her meticulous approach to ensuring accurate, up-to-date, and engaging content. She’s previously edited for outlets including MSN, Architectural Digest, and Better Homes & Gardens. An alumna of the University of Pennsylvania, Roxanne is now an Oklahoma homeowner, DIY enthusiast, and the proud parent of a playful pug.

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