Homeowners typically spend between $1,875 and $8,250 on storage sheds. The national average cost for utility sheds is $3,350.
For many people, a basic backyard shed is an absolute necessity. Whether it’s for storing shovels and lawnmowers or bicycles and pool noodles, a simple shed is where you keep the things your family needs. There’s no limit on what you can do with a shed. Keep it simple or create a custom build and turn your storage shed into a living space or at-home workshop.
In this cost guide:
- Average costs
- Cost estimator by size
- Prefab or custom?
- Cost by type
- Factors that affect cost
- Related services
- Pro cost vs. DIY cost
- Cost by location
- FAQ
Average shed installation costs in 2024
| National average cost | $3,350 |
| Typical price range | $1,875 – $8,250 |
| Extreme low end cost | $275 |
| Extreme high end cost | $30,750 |
The typical price range for storage sheds is between $1,875 and $8,250. The national average cost for utility sheds is approximately $3,350. Smaller prefab sheds will cost less, closer to the extreme low-end of $275. However, if you’re designing a large custom shed with electricity and running water, the total cost could be as high as $30,750.
Shed cost estimator by size
Sheds can be a safe way to store your shovel or lawnmower when not in use. A shed can also be more complex, with electricity installed they can be converted into comfortable workshops. The size of sheds varies just as much as their uses. A shed typically costs between $15 and $145 per square foot.
The average cost per square foot of a shed is $80. Below, we break down the cost of common small, medium, and large shed sizes.
| Shed size | Average overall cost |
| 8’ x 8’ | $5,120 |
| 10’ x 12’ | $9,600 |
| 12’ x 24’ | $23,040 |
Prefab kit or custom?
Prefab kits typically cost between $1,500 and $4,000. You’ll find prefab sheds lined up outside most home improvement stores. These are easy to pick up and assemble yourself, or you can have a professional do the assembling for you for an additional $10 to $20 per square foot.
Custom sheds are going to be more costly on average than your typical prefab shed. Expect to pay anywhere from $45 to $100 per square foot for a custom-built shed. The additional cost for original construction largely depends on the size of the shed, materials used, and extra features.
Shed cost by type
Garden Shed
The average cost for a garden shed is between $100 and $1,000. This type of shed is the smallest. Expect a shed of this size to be able to store small garden tools and supplies.
Storage Shed
The average cost for a storage shed is between $300 and $15,000. A step up from a garden shed, the storage shed comes with some additional space. These sheds should have space for lawnmowers, tools, bikes, and other backyard belongings.
Hangout Shed
The average cost of a hangout shed is between $5,000 and $15,000. A hangout shed is exactly what it sounds like; it’s a shed you’re meant to spend a little time in. These sheds are a bit more spacious and have features such as electricity. This added luxury makes them more suitable for use as workshops or home offices.
Other factors that affect cost
In addition to size, there are several other factors that affect the cost of a shed. These cost factors include materials, labor, the foundation, electrical wiring, plumbing, and paint.
Materials
| Shed Material | Cost |
| Vinyl shed | $200 – $5,000 |
| Metal shed | $500 – $7,000 |
| Wood shed | $3,000 – $15,000 |
| Brick shed | $2,500 – $30,000 |
Labor
A contractor will typically charge around $75 per hour to build your shed, so the longer it takes the more it costs. Sheds made from heavier materials such as wood or brick will usually take longer to build. Likewise, extra features such as electrical wiring or plumbing will drive up labor costs.
Foundation
Most types of sheds also require a foundation. Typically, a concrete slab is the best option and will cost you between $4.43 and $7.73 per square foot to install. Not only does a concrete foundation make your shed look more appealing, it also makes the structure more stable.
Electrical Wiring
If you want to add lights or other electrical wiring to your shed, you’ll need to hire an electrician. Typically, electricians charge between $50 and $105 per hour.
Plumbing
Like electrical wiring, plumbing is a job best left to a specialist. To hire a plumber, expect to pay between $45 and $200 per hour depending on the complexity of the project.
Paint
Painting your shed can give it great visual appeal. And for wooden sheds, paint can be a good way to protect the wood from the elements and prevent rot. Exterior paint typically costs between $1.50 and $4.00 per square foot.
While you’re deciding between a custom or prefabricated shed, consider the following related services. Land clearing may be necessary if there is no open area on your property to install a shed. And what is a garden shed without a garden? If you lack a green thumb, consider having a professional give you a helping hand.
Land Clearing
The average price for land clearing is between $2,565 and $4,520. However, because sheds usually don’t take up too much yard space you may spend closer to the low-end cost of $430. Land clearing will help remove bushes, stumps, boulders, and other obstructions from areas you’d like to build on.
Gardener
Gardeners typically cost $150 per visit. A gardener can keep your yard looking great. If you’d like to plant a large flower bed, expect to pay between $1,000 and $3,000.
Pro cost vs. DIY cost
Prefab sheds can be purchased from home improvement stores for anywhere between $1,500 and $4,000 on average. Some of these shed kits even come with flooring, so a concrete slab is not necessary unless you want the added stability.
Custom shed builds are not a beginner DIY project. They involve pouring concrete, roofing, and dealing with a number of other building materials that all need to meet safety standards and local building codes. Due to the high level of skill required to complete this project as well as safety concerns, this is a project that may be better left to the professionals.
Contractors charge $75 per hour for shed construction and approximately $10 to $20 per square foot for prefab kits.
Cost of a shed by location
Shed prices should not vary much by location. However, expect prices to be adjusted in your area based on the local cost of living and demand.
FAQ
Yes, a sturdy, attractive shed can increase your asking price a bit when you decide it’s time to sell your home.
Depending on where you live you may need a building permit and permission from your HOA to build a shed on your property. Permits could cost $100 or more. Research your local building codes before starting your project.
Most homeowners insurance policies include coverage for all structures on your property including garages and sheds. So no need to purchase anything extra!
Final thoughts
There’s no limit to what you can do with a shed. At its most basic, a garden shed stores garden tools keeping children safe from dangerous equipment and giving your backyard a more organized look. For those needing a little extra room, a storage shed is a storage space for household overflow and has extra room for larger equipment such as lawnmowers.
Sometimes you need a place of your own to be handy, a spacious hangout shed with added wiring can become the workspace of your dreams. Whether you desire a simple prefab shed option or a custom build, reach out to your local professional to get the shed you need.
Note: Lawn Love may get a referral fee for matching you with contractors in your area.
Main Photo by: Bob Harvey | Geograph | CC BY-SA 2.0
