Everyone wants to build a dream house. But navigating the costs seems like a hectic task. If you are planning to build, renovate, or remodel a home, drywall is considered one of the most essential materials. Drywall is important for forming clean and smooth ceilings and walls for exterior and interior painting. However, before starting construction or renovation, an important question comes to mind: How Much Does Drywall Cost?
The good news is that this blog will break down the drywall cost per square foot and guide you through the cost factors that are responsible for affecting the drywall costs. Let’s delve deep into the details and understand the average cost of drywall for various walls.
Average Drywall Installation Cost
While installing the drywall, it is important to know the average drywall installation cost per square foot, which will help the clients in estimating the overall cost of your construction project. In 2025, the clients across the USA are paying $1.70 – $4.50 per square foot for drywall installation. This price is not solely based on the installation costs; in fact, it includes labor rates, the material chosen, types of drywall, and finishing work costs.
The average cost of installing drywall also depends on the type and thickness, adding $10 to $15 to the costs. Moreover, the scope of the project also affects the average cost, as smaller spaces require less drywall as compared to larger and complex ones.
Drywall Cost by Finish Level
Drywall cost per square foot is also affected by the finish level. The drywall finishing is also determined on a scale ranging from Level 1 to Level 5. The finish level is defined in terms of smoothness level and how much preparation is done before the drywall is ready for painting. These levels also affect the drywall cost associated with it. The higher the level, the more money will be charged.
| Finish Levels | Description | Cost associated |
| Level 1 | Joints & angles covered with tape, no mudding or sanding | $1.25 – $1.75 |
| Level 2 | Thin coat of compound over tape; seams visible | $1.50 – $2.20 |
| Level 3 | Multiple coats of compound; light sanding, surface still not perfectly smooth. | $1.70– $2.70 |
| Level 4 | Joints, corners, and fasteners fully covered & sanded; smooth enough for standard paint | $2.50 – $3.00 |
| Level 5 | Highest quality; skim coat applied for ultra-smooth surface, ideal for glossy paint or critical lighting | $3.50 – $5.50 |
Drywall Repair Cost
Drywall repair costs also affect the overall budget of your renovation or remodeling. It also depends on various factors, such as the size of damage, labor rates, and location. When it comes to the extent of damage, replacing a simple nut does not cost as much as compared to a whole structural replacement that costs more. Similarly, the damage to the type of drywall also influences the cost. Moreover, the location and labor rates as per region further put a strain on your budget.
| Drywall repair types | Cost of repair | Details of repair |
| Small holes or minor dents | $50-$100 | Quick and simple patch |
| Medium holes and dents | $350-$450 | Sanding, patching, and mudding |
| Larger holes | $200-$550 | Need drywall replacement or blending |
| Ceiling damage | $300-$700 | Higher cost due to overhead labor |
| Corner repair | $100-$250 | Common for cracks along drywall joints |
| Water damage | $250-$900 | replacing sections and sealing |
| Extensive repair | $500-$2000 | Labor-intensive, needs a new drywall |
Replacement Cost of Drywall
Sometimes it is impossible to repair the drywall due to extensive damage. The only suitable option that comes to mind is the replacement of drywall. The cost of replacing the drywall ranges from $1-$5 per square foot. However, the cost varies depending on the nature of the drywall replacement, including finish level, type of drywall material, removal, and disposal. Here is the detail of the replacement cost of drywall! For a 12’x12’ bedroom, the expected cost of replacing the drywall is around $550 to $1300 in total. On the contrary, the whole house demands a cost of $2000-$5000. Replacing drywall on the ceiling tends to be more expensive per square foot because of the difficulty level and height.
| Replacement types | Cost per square foot (installed+Materials+Labor rates) |
| Simple wall and standard drywall | $1.50-$3.50 |
| More premium drywall | $2-$4 |
| Full Replacement | $3-$7 |
| Material-only cost | $0.50-$0.75 |
Factors That Influence Drywall Cost
The cost of drywall installation is also influenced by various factors, including the type of drywall material, drywall thickness, project scope, room size, labor rates, equipment charges, regulatory fees, location, and finish.
Type of Drywall
Standard Drywall
The cost of standard drywall installation usually ranges from $1.75 to $ 2.5 per square foot, along with material costs between $0.40 and $0.50 per square foot. This type of drywall material is suitable for residential projects used in walls and ceilings with interiors. Among all, it is easy and quick to install on a flat surface.
Plasterboard Drywall
The cost of plasterboard drywall ranges from &1.50 to $2 per square foot in the case of installation. It is basically a type of sheetrock that comes in different ways. It is not usually recommended for heavy plaster and Venetian plaster finishes.
Moisture-resistant
If you are looking for extra protection against mold and moisture, you must opt for green gypsum board. The price of moisture-resistant drywall varies between $1.70 $3 per square foot. The cost of the material ranges from $0.54 to $0.63 per square foot. It is highly suitable for bathrooms, basements, and kitchens. It is easy to handle and install as compared to traditional drywall.
Fire-resistant drywall
It is often referred to as Type X, ranging, from $1.70 to $3.5 per square foot when installed. The cost of the material ranges from $0.50 to $0.88 per square foot. It is usually recommended for apartments, dormitories, and houses equipped with fire-resistant materials. The variety consists of non-flammable fibers such as fiberglass. As compared to other types, this type of drywall is difficult to handle and use.
Soundproof drywall
The cost of installing soundproof drywall ranges from $3.40 to $7.0 per square foot. To soundproof your walls, you can install a material that absorbs sound. This type is layered or constructed in sheets using a combination of wood fibers, polymers, and gypsum.
Being extremely dense, it is hard to cut and install, and it costs significantly more per sheet than other types of materials. That’s why it is used only in areas where sound control is necessary.
Recycled Drywall
The price of eco-friendly sheetrock ranges from $1.60 to $3.40 per square foot, including installation. Being environmentally friendly and sustainable, it is highly suitable for every type of construction. This is because the type consists of gypsum, a highly recyclable material.
Finishing Level
The cost of drywall installation also depends on the finishing level that is used to improve the appearance. It consists of many levels.
Level 1-2 is used for basic garages and basements. The cost is around $1.50- $2.00
Level 3 is used for paint-ready and light textures. The cost is around $1.75-$2.50
Level 4 is smooth and common for homes. The cost is around $2.50-$3.50.
Level 5 is a high-end and luxury finish that costs around $5.00+ per square foot.
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Room Size and Complexity
10×10 Bedroom
If your bedroom size is 10×10, you don’t need special drywall. The walls are flat and easy to work with; for this room, the cost of installing drywall would be around $700-$1300.
12×12 Living Room
For a larger space like a 12×12 living room, the total cost of installing drywall would be around $900-$1500, including the cost related to finishes, materials, and labor.
16×20 Room
Such a size of the room requires 600 to 700 square feet of drywall surface, costing around $1700-$3000 per installation.
Basement
Installing drywall in the basement is more difficult than in any other space because of irregular shapes, wiring, and pipes. Therefore, complexity adds further cost to the budget, increasing the cost from $2000 to $5000.
| Complexity | Estimated costs |
| Simple room with flat ceiling | $800-$1200 |
| A room with a high ceiling | $1200-$1400 |
| Room with curved walls and arches | $1350-$1700 |
| Room with wiring, curves, and a level 5 finish | $1550-$2200 |
Location
The location of the house also influences the drywall cost per square foot. In urban and high-cost areas such as New York and San Francisco, the drywall installation cost is around $3.50-$5.00 per square foot installed due to high contractor wages, insurance, and permit costs. In Suburban areas, drywall installation costs around $2.00-$4.00 per square foot. Moreover, some regions require local building code permits to install different types of drywall in a home.
Drywall Thickness
Drywall thickness can also influence your budget. If you have a restricted budget, you must opt for the thinnest quarter-inch panels. Three-eighths inch and half-inch are the most common types of drywall thickness.
| Drywall Thickness | Cost estimated | Ideal Use |
| 1/4 | $15 | Curved areas |
| 3/8 | $16 | Patches and repairs |
| 1/2 | $20 | Standard walls |
| 5/8 | $22 | Standard ceiling |
| 3/4 | $25 | Sound-proofing |
Drywall Texture
Adding texture to drywall not only enhances a room’s beauty but also hides imperfections. The average cost of drywall texture ranges from $1 to $2.00 per square foot, depending on the type of texture.
- Orange peel: Texture that is subtle and dimpled, similar to the orange’s skin.
- Popcorn: A bumpy texture created by spraying drywall mud and polystyrene onto the ceiling
- Skip Trowel: It consists of an uneven, rough texture that can be applied by using a trowel.
- Knockdown: A rustic texture embellished with an added step of flattening peaks
- Sand Swirl: It is a decorative pattern developed by mixture of drywall and sand.
- Venetian plaster: A polished finish created by applying multiple layers of tinted plaster
Tips on Saving Money
Here are some practical tips on saving money while installing drywall in your home.
- In the first step, one must plan and take measurements accurately to avoid wastage of resources and money. One must buy in full sheets instead of cut pieces to avoid wastage and over-purchasing.
- Buy the materials in bulk in order to maintain your budget. Because drywall, when bought in larger quantities, is cheaper. Also, check for wholesale discounts at supply stores.
- While selecting drywall, always choose the right one according to your project and home. Use standard drywall in low-humidity areas. In the case of high humidity, always opt for moisture-resistant drywall. The careful selection will save money in the long run.
- To save money, one must do the preparation oneself. Before installation, one must remove old drywall or wallpaper to cut labor costs.
- If you’re hiring a professional for drywall installation, don’t settle for the first quote. Prices can vary by contractor, so one must get at least three estimates. It will help ensure you are getting the best deal.
- Always look for experienced contractors with fair pricing, and ask for a breakdown of material and labor costs with clear projections.
- Contractor rates are often lower during off-peak seasons. Spring and summer are busy times for construction projects. Therefore, one must avoid scheduling the project in the summer or spring. Instead, always schedule in the fall or winter. Contractors may also be more flexible with pricing during off-peak season.
Are You Looking For an Expert for Drywall Installation and Cost Calculation?
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Conclusion
No one denies the importance of drywall for your new home. Drywall is useful in enhancing the aesthetic value of your home and uplifting its grace. By using our premier drywall estimating services, you can install drywall by avoiding high costs and reducing cost surprises. If you are looking for a reputable estimating firm to help you with drywall installation with clear costs, Cost Bidding is the right firm. To explore further services, contact us or visit our website.
FAQS
- What is the average drywall cost per square foot?
The average installation cost is around $1.50-$3 per square foot, including labor rates and material selection. The cost can be varied with the addition of texture, finishes, and drywall thickness.
- Does drywall type affect the price?
Yes, the drywall type also influences the pricing ranges of drywall installation. For instance, standard drywall costs less compared to soundproofing and moisture-resistant drywalls due to complexity.
- How do labor costs impact drywall pricing?
Labor often comprises 60–70% of the total cost of a drywall project. Labor rates can range from $1.00 – $2.30 per sq. ft., depending on work complexity, regional wages, and project scope.
- Can I install drywall myself to save money?
Yes, one can install drywall to save money, especially for simple and small projects. However, complex drywall installation demands professionalism and knowledge, which can only be provided by drywall estimators and installers.
- How much drywall do I need for a 1,000 sq ft wall?
A 1,000 sq. ft. wall surface will require about 31–32 sheets of 4×8-foot drywall. If using 4×12 ft sheets, you will need about 21 sheets.
