Updated September 2026
How much do new floors cost in 2026?
Installed price ranges per square foot for every popular flooring type, plus the hidden costs to plan for.
- Insured, experienced local installers
- Free in-home measurement and written quote
- Subfloor checked before installation
Price ranges
Flooring costs per square foot
Typical U.S. installed price ranges, including materials and labor.
| Project | Typical cost | What drives the price |
|---|---|---|
| Solid hardwood | $8–$20 / sq ft | Species, plank width, site vs. pre-finished |
| Engineered hardwood | $6–$14 / sq ft | Wear-layer thickness, plank width, species |
| Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) | $4–$9 / sq ft | Wear layer (mils), rigid core, subfloor prep |
| Porcelain / ceramic tile | $5–$15+ / sq ft | Tile size, pattern, substrate prep |
| Hardwood refinishing | $3–$5 / sq ft | Stain change, repairs, number of coats |
| Old floor removal | $1–$3 / sq ft | Material type (tile and glued floors cost more) |
| Subfloor leveling | Varies | Flatness, self-leveler vs. plywood repair |
Typical national ranges compiled from 2025–2026 industry cost data. Prices vary by region, material, and installer. Your written quote is what counts.
What affects the price
Five factors that move your quote
Material choice
The widest swing in price. Compare wear-layer thickness and warranty, not just the sticker price.
Square footage and layout
Larger areas lower the per-foot price. Stairs, closets, and diagonal or herringbone layouts add labor.
Subfloor condition
Out-of-level slabs, damaged plywood, and moisture problems must be fixed first, and they’re often the hidden cost.
Removal and disposal
Pulling up carpet is quick. Removing glued-down wood or tile takes much longer.
Trim and transitions
Baseboards, quarter-round, stair nosing, and thresholds should all be in the quote.
Smart hiring
How to get a fair price
- Get quotes based on an in-home measurement, not a phone estimate.
- Ask whether removal, disposal, furniture moving, and trim are included.
- Budget 7–10% extra material for waste and future repairs.
- Ask how the installer will check subfloor moisture and flatness.
- Compare wear-layer thickness and warranty terms across products.
FAQ
Cost questions, answered
What is the most affordable flooring that still looks high-end?
A quality luxury vinyl plank with a thick wear layer offers a convincing wood look at a lower cost than hardwood, and it’s waterproof.
Does new flooring increase home value?
Hardwood in particular is valued by buyers, and replacing worn or dated floors can help a home show and sell better. Results depend on your market.
Why is my quote higher than the online price per square foot?
Online prices often cover material only. Installed quotes include labor, prep, removal, trim, and waste. Ask for an itemized quote to see where the money goes.
Get a real number for your home
Ranges only go so far. A vetted local pro can inspect and give you a written quote, free.