Drywall Cost Calculator Guide (Material and Installation)
Drywall cost depends on room size, drywall thickness, and labor rates. This guide explains how much drywall costs, what affects the price, and how to estimate your total budget accurately.
What Affects Drywall Cost?
Several factors change the final price of your project:
Total square footage
Thickness (1/2″ or 5/8″)
Finishing Level
Local Labor Rates
Average Drywall Cost (Per Square Foot)
These are typical average ranges. Actual prices vary by location.
Material Only
$0.40 – $0.65
per sq ft
Labor Only
$1.50 – $3.00
per sq ft
Total Installed
$2.00 – $4.00
per sq ft
Ceilings and textured finishes usually cost more.
Drywall Sheet Prices (Material Cost)
| Sheet Size & Type | Average Price |
|---|---|
| 4×8 sheet (1/2″ Standard) | $10 – $15 |
| 4×12 sheet (1/2″ Standard) | $15 – $20 |
| 5/8″ Fire-Rated (Type X) | Higher cost ($16 - $25) |
Labor & Finishing Costs
Installation Labor
- Walls Only: $1.50 – $2.50 / sq ft
- Ceilings: $2.00 – $3.50 / sq ft
Finishing (Tape & Mud)
- Basic Finish: $0.50 – $1.00 / sq ft
- Smooth/Texture: $1.00 – $2.00 / sq ft
Example Cost Estimate
Scenario: 10×10 Room (8 ft ceiling)
- Total Drywall Area: Approx. 320 sq ft (Walls + Ceiling)
- Estimated Cost (Installed):
$640 – $1,280
(Depends on location and finish)How to Reduce Drywall Cost
- Use correct sheet size: Longer sheets (12ft) mean fewer seams to tape.
- Simple layout: Avoid unnecessary nooks or complex textures.
- Plan ahead: Calculate exact quantities to minimize waste.
Related Drywall Tools
Stay on Budget
Knowing quantities, thickness, and finish level helps you avoid surprises. Calculate your exact needs now.
Calculate Drywall Cost