Building a duplex, triplex, or quadplex can be a smart investment for those looking to generate income or create a multi-family home. A duplex is a building that has two separate living units. Each unit has a unique layout and design. Understanding the budget is vital to plan your project efficiently. If you’re a homeowner or a contractor, this guide is tailored to meet your needs.
In this guide, we’ll explore the average cost to build a duplex. How much does it cost per sq ft or unit? We’ll also break down the costs included. It will help you get a clear image of your project. Let’s dive in and identify what it takes to construct a duplex!
Average Cost to Build a Duplex
On average, the cost to build a duplex typically falls within the range of $300,000 to $580,000. However, in areas with a high cost of living, this figure can increase to as much as $2.0 million.
This cost depends upon different factors. These factors include quality of material, location, extra features, labor cost, and legal permits. If you are a homeowner, it is recommended to consult a professional while planning a budget to build a duplex.
Cost to Build a Duplex per Square Foot
In the field of real estate, the construction of apartments like duplexes has been a complex and expensive project. But rich contractors and homeowners like to construct such buildings of their choice. This project can become easy to maintain if planned in advance.
The average cost to build a duplex can range between $150 to $280 per square foot. However, this price is exclusive of costs like legal permits, land acquisition, and contractor fees. These factors vary with location and thus change the total budget.
Duplex Cost per Sq Ft
It is important to identify the costs of duplexes of multiple sizes. Understanding this can help you calculate a more accurate budget for your duplex according to size.
SIZE Sq Ft |
Average Cost |
| 1,000 | $150,000 – $280,000 |
| 2,000 | $300,000 – $560,000 |
| 3,000 | $450,000 – $840,000 |
| 4,000 | $600,000 – $1,120,000 |
| 5,000 | $750,000 – $1,400,000 |
Duplex Cost per Unit
A duplex is a building that has 2 separate living units. Each unit typically consists of 500 to 1,200 sq ft. Although, larger apartments can have bigger units. A duplex costs $100,000 to $250,000 per unit.
However, this cost can increase with high-tech features or luxuries. duplex is typically constructed and custom-designed. Thus, the price range increases as the luxuries are added.
Cost of Building a Duplex per Story
A duplex can be constructed in two primary architectural forms:
- Two-story structure with one unit over other
- Single-story building with two units side by side
The arrangement of units can also affect the total cost. If you’re building a two-story duplex, the cost of stairs will be added. However, the cost to build a duplex per story ranges between $200,000 and $500,000.
Two-story building
Two-story duplex will range between $140 to $250 per square foot for construction. These units are usually accessed from the front or back of the main building from the ground floor. It will include a flight of stairs to the second story.
Single-story building
Duplexes constructed on a single story will take about $100 to $200 per square foot. Although single-story duplex requires less material costs. It will not need stairs to reach the second floor. The 2 units in a single-story duplex have their separate entrance.
Cost Breakdown
Below is a table for identifying all the cost factors that are included in constructing a duplex. Understanding these costs helps you to make a budget for duplex costs.
Materials Expenses
Material |
Cost Per Unit |
| Foundation | $20-$35 |
| Roofing | $10-$20 |
| Window installation | $20-$30 |
| Flooring | $10-$25 |
| Painting | $5-$10 |
| Kitchen appliances | $5-$10 |
| Bathroom appliances | $5-$10 |
| Furniture | $10-$20 |
| Plumbing | $10-$20 |
| Fixtures | $5-$10 |
| Electricity | $10-$20 |
| Cabinets | $10-$20 |
| Countertops | $10-$20 |
| HVAC | $10-$20 |
| Exterior | $10-$20 |
Labor Costs
| Factor | Cost Per Sq Ft |
| General contractor | 10-20% of total construction cost |
| Structural engineer | $1-$3 |
| Electrician | $1-$3 |
| Labors | $10-$20 |
| Architect | $1-$3 |
| Plumber | $1-$3 |
| Carpenter | $10-$20 |
| Painter | $5-$10 |
Other Expenses
Other expenses that can affect the total cost of building a duplex includes:
- Permits
- Legal documents
- Expensive material
- Luxury Features
- Indoor or outdoor high-tech features
The costs of these factors vary with location and requirements.
Conclusion
A duplex cost typically falls within the range of $300,000 to $580,000. However, in areas with a high cost of living, this figure can increase to as much as $2.0 million. It is necessary to identify every cost factor while planning to build a duplex. Remember to add the costs of legal permits and documents.
The final cost will depend upon your specific needs and requirements. If you’re a homeowner, it is recommended to consult a field expert to get a more accurate budget according to your needs.
FAQs
Q1. Cheapest duplex to build?
The cheapest duplex to build has a simple, basic layout with affordable materials like vinyl siding and basic finishes. Costs can start around $200,000, depending on location and size.
Q2. Cost to build a duplex per square foot?
The average cost to build a duplex can range between $150 to $280 per square foot.
Q3. How much does a duplex cost to buy?
Buying a duplex can range from $300,000 to $600,000, depending on location, size, and condition.
