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Metal building prices and cost guide for 2025
Prefab metal building kits range in price from $15 to $25 per square foot.
On average, installed (turnkey) steel buildings cost $24 to $43 per sq. ft., covering the kit, concrete slab, delivery, and construction.
Why are our kits more expensive? Unlike cheaper tubular-framed options, we only use commercial-grade steel I-beam frames from the USA and Canada.
Review the factors that affect metal building prices below and estimate your total building cost.
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Please note this is just a ‘ballpark’ estimate; the price calculator doesn’t factor in foundation, installation, or custom options.
Top selling products
Below are some of our most popular buildings, showing various configurations for common setups along with typical metal building prices.
You can customize any of these to meet your specific size, access, and style requirements. For current discounted prices, visit our metal building store.
2025 Steel building prices
- listed pricing is for the metal building kit only
- prices are subject to location and do not include taxes
- for installed price estimates, see the table further down this page
- See our nationwide prices page for up-to-date product pricing
| Size (ft) | Average Kit Price | Price / Sq Ft |
|---|---|---|
|
30 x 30 |
$18,000 |
$20.00 |
|
30 x 40 |
$24,000 |
$20.00 |
|
30 x 50 |
$30,175 |
$20.12 |
|
30 x 60 |
$36,250 |
$20.14 |
|
30 x 80 |
$46,656 |
$19.44 |
|
30 x 100 |
$56,160 |
$18.72 |
|
40 x 40 |
$33,280 |
$20.80 |
|
40 x 50 |
$41,600 |
$20.80 |
|
40 x 60 |
$44,928 |
$18.72 |
|
40 x 80 |
$59,904 |
$18.72 |
|
50 x 50 |
$46,800 |
$18.72 |
|
50 x 60 |
$56,160 |
$18.72 |
|
50 x 80 |
$74,880 |
$18.72 |
|
50 x 100 |
$80,000 |
$16.00 |
|
60 x 40 |
$44,928 |
$18.72 |
|
60 x 60 |
$67,392 |
$18.72 |
|
60 x 80 |
$89,856 |
$18.72 |
|
60 x 120 |
$109,800 |
$15.25 |
|
80 x 100 |
$134,400 |
$16.80 |
|
100 x 100 |
$160,160 |
$16.20 |
|
100 x 200 |
$331,760 |
$16.59 |
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What factors affect red iron building prices?
Various factors impact prefab metal building prices. Suppliers can only offer approximate prices until they fully understand your specific project.
After assessing your needs and location, suppliers can issue a written fixed-price quote.
Key factors influencing metal building prices per square foot include:
Global steel prices
Every steel frame building kit is priced differently, depending on design complexity, size, and other factors you control based on your needs.
However, the steel commodity price is one wild card factor beyond your control. Steel is the source of a metal buildings strength and durability.
As with all commodities, steel pricing can fluctuate with an unpredictable market and change daily.
Each provider’s purchasing power and sales can also vary depending on the PEMB manufacturer.
Steel prices have been volatile since 2015 and hit a record high in 2020. For the years 2022-2024, it is expected that steel prices will decline, but the global trading environment is still unpredictable due to the supply chain issues caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Geopolitical events and other global factors also affect the price of steel. (You can find out more about current and historical rates here.)
The location of the construction site
Metal building prices are primarily governed by where you intend to build.
Here are the main factors to consider:
Local building codes
The location where you plan to construct your new structure is an important factor influencing the gauge of metal required to manufacture your building.
This is because the local building codes consider factors such as wind, snow, and seismic loads.
If your building is in areas prone to hurricanes, snowstorms, or earthquakes, it requires additional metal to support the increased loads.
Our suppliers will work with you to ensure that your metal building meets all the requirements of your local building codes.
Fuel charges
Current fuel charges (and/or surcharges) will impact shipping and delivery rates. Most of our suppliers have multiple shipping locations around the country.
Be sure to verify delivery charges when placing your order – some manufacturers include this in the price, and some do not.
Local labor rates
Labor rates can fluctuate by as much as 60% depending on where in the country you intend to build.
Local taxes
Sales tax may or may not be applicable, depending on your location. The following states do not currently charge sales tax: Alaska, Delaware, Montana, New Hampshire, and Oregon.
How building style, size and design affect pricing
You have the ability to influence one significant aspect when it comes to a metal buildings final price, which is the overall complexity of your structure.
When budgeting for your new pre-engineered metal building (PEMB), consider its size and complexity carefully.
Larger structures are logically higher priced overall, but the cost per square foot declines significantly as the overall size increases.
For example, a 5,000-square-foot warehouse may cost $16 per sq ft., while a small garage or metal carport might cost $25 per sq ft.
Easy-to-construct buildings like garages and shops are significantly cheaper than complex churches with varying roof profiles and pitches.
Pricing factors include:
Roof style
Buildings with more complex roof styles, such as gambrels and monitors, are more costly to engineer and require additional framing.
The most common and cost-effective roof style is a traditional gable roof with a 2:12 pitch.
For economy, though, you might want to consider a single-slope roof profile with a low pitch.
Roof pitch
Steep roof pitches (3:12-5:12) require more metal and are, as such, more expensive than structures with a low 1:12 pitch.
Size
Smaller buildings are less expensive overall but may cost more per square foot.
Standard dimensions
Try to choose a standard size, such as 30×40, 30×50, 40×60, etc., over a custom size like 28×34.
Size up if you can and choose as large a building as your budget allows—you won’t regret the additional space!
Design
More complex and custom designs with features like overhangs, porches, or mezzanine levels can impact pricing significantly. Wherever possible, keep it simple.
Additional framed openings
Creating the frames for doors and windows requires additional metal, which adds to the overall kit package price.
Again, try to limit the size and number of openings to reduce the cost of a steel building.
Exterior finishing
Upgrading the exterior finish of your PEMB from standard metal siding impacts overall pricing.
Structural insulated panels (SIP), stucco, brick, Hardie board, and other finishes are all priced differently.
Intended end-use
Steel buildings used for living and working (such as shop houses) will have different construction and foundation requirements than those used for farm storage.
The final price is affected by how you plan to use your building, the type of insulation and ventilation required, the types of doors you will need, and other factors related to the end use.
Remember that prices for standard sizes like the ones listed on this website (30×40 metal buildings, 40×60, etc.) are cheaper than a custom size (28 x 34).
We recommend opting for the largest building that fits your budget and proposed construction site and a standard size will save you money.
What factors affect red iron building prices?
Various factors impact prefab metal building prices. Suppliers can only offer approximate prices until they fully understand your specific project.
After assessing your needs and location, suppliers can issue a written fixed-price quote.
Key factors influencing metal building prices per square foot include:
Other budget considerations
Other factors besides the kit price must be considered when planning your build.
Below are some of the main cost considerations.
Local labor rates
Depending on where you intend to build, construction labor rates for laying the foundation, construction, and any finishing expenses can vary by as much as 60%.
Local material costs
Again, the local price of concrete, road base, and any interior finishing materials (lumber, etc.) will vary depending on where you intend to build.
Delivery charges
Not all suppliers include building delivery fees in the package price, so be sure to check before placing your order.
Delivery rates vary by the kit’s weight, destination, and manufacturer but generally cost 4% to 7% of the total package price.
They are more expensive the farther away from the manufacturer you are.
Building permit fees
The cost of a construction permit in the United States and Canada varies based on the size and complexity of the structure and the state or province where the project is located.
Small towns might charge as little as $150, while larger cities could demand as much as $7,500.
On average, building permit fees range from $550 to $2,000.
Site clearing & preparation
Site preparation charges vary depending on the lot you intend to build on and the amount of work required to prepare the area for the foundation.
Estimates will vary by location, local soil, and climatic conditions. The following rough estimates are given as a guideline and based on the square footage of the building, not the lot size.
- Surveying $1,500 – $2,000
- Plan Design $750 – $2,500
- Soil Testing $700 – $1,800
- Site Clearing $1 – $4 /sq ft
- Site Grading $0.4 – $2 /sq ft
Building construction
As with some of the other estimates outlined on this page, your metal building construction cost will vary significantly based on the location of the job site and local labor rates. As a guide, you should allow $5 to $10 per square foot for construction.
Concrete slab foundation
The foundation cost will vary based on your location, soil conditions, the type and thickness of the foundation required, local labor rates, and the price of construction materials in your area.
You should allow $4 to $8 per square foot for a concrete slab foundation.
You must consult a foundation installer for accurate quotations on foundations.
Please note that large, complex clear span buildings will require more difficult and costly foundations and must be designed and engineered by a licensed structural engineer.
Building design
If you choose to work with your chosen supplier, basic design costs are included in the package price.
Alternatively, if you require a more elaborate structure and choose to work with an architect, you should factor in approximately 7% for the architect’s fees.
If you require professionally designed floor plans and electrical and plumbing plans, they can cost between $300 and $2,500.
Turn your vision into a custom 3D design with our intuitive, online metal building designer
Building insulation
The insulation price will primarily depend on the type of insulation you choose and the R-value required.
Here are some rough installed estimates for the most common types of metal building insulation:
- Fiberglass batts or rolls – $0.7 – $2.5 /sq ft
- Spray foam insulation – $2.5 – $4.5 /sq ft
- SIP panels- $5 – $10 /sq ft
Framed openings
Framed openings need to be added to your prefab building wherever doors or windows are to be placed. Additional metal is required for each framed opening.
The required number and size of each opening will dictate the final price for these, but here are some estimates:
- Window openings $200 – $400
- Walk door openings $300 – $600
- Overhead door openings $400 – $800
Commercial-grade access doors
Overhead door prices are dictated by the width and height required for your chosen application and whether these are insulated. Without listing every possible metal building door option, here are some rough estimates:
- Sectional garage doors $900 – $4,000
- Roll Up Doors $1,200- $5,000
Personnel doors
Typical 3’x7’ (3070) personnel doors range from $450 – $850.
Both overhead and personnel doors can be purchased from your chosen supplier or sourced locally.
Windows
Window prices vary greatly depending on whether they are standard vinyl or architectural grade, but they will typically range between $200 and $700.
Gutters and downspouts
Gutters and downspouts can cost from $3 to $15 per linear foot. The cost primarily depends on your material choice (vinyl, aluminum, etc.). The size of your structure will determine how many linear feet of guttering will be required.
To get a ballpark figure, add the length and height of each wall. You will need to add the height twice for two downspouts. Then, add 10 percent as a safety measure.
Here are some ballpark estimates based on popular sizes:
- 30x40x12 (1,200 sq ft) – approx. 125 linear feet = $375 – $1,875
- 40x60x16 (2,400 sq ft) – approx. 200 linear feet = $600 – $3,000
- 50x100x18 (5,000 sq ft) – approx. 350 linear feet = $1,050 – $5,250
Alternate siding options
If you require an alternate siding option rather than the supplied metal siding, here are some rough estimates:
- Hardie Plank $2 – $6 per square foot
- Vinyl Siding $3 – $5 per square foot
- Wood Siding $7 – $11 per square foot
- Stone/Brick Veneer $12 – $18 per square foot
Interior build-out and finishing
Steel building interior finishing and build-out can range from almost zero for a basic shed to over $100 per square foot for a fully finished metal home.
- Interior framing & dry walling $8 – $18 per square foot
- Electrical (rough-in) $2 – $6 per square foot
- Plumbing (rough-in) $2 – $6 per square foot
Building construction options
Do-it-yourself (DIY)
DIY construction can save you anywhere from $6,000 for a small 1,200-square-foot building to tens of thousands in construction fees of $5 to $10 per square foot.
Self build
With this option, you serve as the general contractor by hiring and coordinating the construction crew, plumbers and electricians for the project. This option can save you 10-20% in general contractor (GC) fees.
GC build
As noted, a GC will charge 10-20% of the project cost. This is the most expensive construction method but can also be the fastest route with the least stress.
Price breakdown for popular structures
1,200 sq ft Residential building
A small two-bedroom metal home can cost anywhere from $35,040 to $45,840. This includes the kit at approx. $24,240, foundation at $4,800 and construction at $6,000. Please note – interior finishing can add a further $60+/sq ft depending on the level of finish.
2,400 sq ft Farm storage building
A basic agricultural building with a perimeter foundation and dirt floor can cost between $62,352 and $81,072. The cost breakdown includes the kit at approx. $43,632, foundation at $6,720 and erection at $12,000.
5,000 sq ft Industrial building
The price range for a typical 5,000 sq ft commercial building could be $125,800 to $170,800. The breakdown includes the kit at an average of $80,800, the foundation at $20,000, with construction at approx. $25,000.
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Typical building square foot costs
| Size (FT) | Kit Cost | Installed From | Cost / sq ft |
|---|---|---|---|
|
30×40 |
$24,240 |
$33,620 |
$28.00 |
|
30×50 |
$30,300 |
$42,000 |
$28.00 |
|
40×40 |
$32,300 |
$44,800 |
$28.00 |
|
30×60 |
$36,360 |
$50,400 |
$28.00 |
|
40×50 |
$40,400 |
$56,000 |
$28.00 |
|
40×60 |
$43,600 |
$62,200 |
$25.90 |
|
50×50 |
$45,450 |
$64,800 |
$25.90 |
|
50×60 |
$54,540 |
$77,700 |
$25.90 |
|
40×80 |
$58,200 |
$82,900 |
$25.90 |
|
40×100 |
$72,700 |
$103,600 |
$25.90 |
|
50×80 |
$72,700 |
$103,600 |
$25.90 |
|
60×80 |
$87,264 |
$125,564 |
$26.16 |
|
50×100 |
$80,800 |
$119,000 |
$23.80 |
|
60×100 |
$96,960 |
$150,960 |
$25.16 |
|
80×100 |
$129,280 |
$201,280 |
$25.16 |
|
100×100 |
$151,500 |
$227,600 |
$22.76 |
|
100×150 |
$227,250 |
$362,250 |
$24.15 |
|
100×200 |
$303,000 |
$483,000 |
$24.15 |
Metal building cost calculator
Use the calculator below to get an online estimate for your installed (turnkey) cost. This factors in the price of the metal building kit, the concrete foundation, delivery and construction.
It does not account for accessories such as doors and windows. Most of our suppliers provide two framed openings with their standard kit packages but verify this when placing your order.
For kit only prices see our metal building prices table.
Please note: this cost calculator only provides a ‘ballpark’ estimate for a turnkey metal building. You must apply to get accurate estimates for your location.
9 Ways to save money on prefab metal buildings
One of the best ways to save on your construction project is to take on as much of the work as possible yourself (be the GC) and shop around for the most competitive contractors for concrete, construction, plumbing, and electrical work. Acting as the general contractor can save you 20% of GCs’ fees.
Other ways to save include:
DIY build
If it’s feasible for you to erect the steel building yourself, you could save between 20% and 30% on your construction cost.
Reduce design complexity
Choose a simple design. More complex configurations require additional metal and engineering time.
Avoid costly change orders
Not accounting for all your requirements now may be costly in the future. Change orders after the manufacturer has begun production can be very expensive, so make sure you have planned and finalized your details before placing your order with the factory.
Choose a simple roof profile and low-pitch
The cheapest option is a single-slope roof with a 1:12 pitch. Like the point above, more complex roof profiles such as monitor and gambrel roofs require more metal, engineering, and construction time. The sweet spot for most customers is a gable roof with a 2:12 pitch.
Reduce the number of doors & windows
Reduce the number of framed openings to a minimum; these can add up quickly. Also, wherever possible, choose standard-size doors and windows that are readily available locally.
Reduce the height
Try to be realistic about the height of your building; the higher you go, the more metal is required, which will, in turn, increase the price. The additional space will also impact your heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) expenses.
Plan ahead for expansion
Red iron buildings can be expanded later if you specify ‘expandable end walls’ on your initial order. If you fail to do this, the expenditure of adding additional bays later will be significantly more expensive due to the additional engineering required.
Schedule off-season construction
Building at the right time of year can be an effective way to save on your construction fees. In colder climates, the most economical time for construction is usually early spring and late autumn, with summer being the most expensive.
Tax breaks, deductions and incentives
Speak to your accountant about possible tax deductions, such as the section 179 tax deduction or the 179D commercial buildings energy-efficiency tax deduction, along with any other incentives that you may be able to take advantage of. Some farm and agricultural metal buildings are also covered for the 179 deductions.
Compare building estimates
Metal building pricing can vary based on manufacturer and location; you will want to get at least four written building quotes from different manufacturers/suppliers.
We can help you find the best solution and the best price on metal buildings. Provide us with your project details, and we will match you with four of the most suitable suppliers. Get competing price quotes for your steel building kit.
When speaking with suppliers, enquiring if they have any current sale offers is also a good idea. Most suppliers have regular sales and offer yearly discounts to move excess inventory.
What are some mistakes to avoid when buying a metal building?
Don’t expect an accurate estimate until you’ve identified your exact location and building size.
Most buyers often find they need more space than they initially anticipated. Consider that most PEMBs are only one story in height (max. 30 feet), so you may need a longer or wider structure than if you were planning a multi-story structure.
Don’t count on pricing accuracy until you’ve fully planned your project.
We can’t emphasize enough that you’ll want a detailed plan before purchasing. You must work with your chosen steel building supplier or contractor to determine your requirements and possible customization options.
You may get an initial price based on the estimated dimensions, construction site location, and building end-use, but delivery, equipment, and customization costs can vary significantly from coast to coast.
Make sure you include the following when requesting an estimate:
- The ZIP/postal code of your proposed job site (for local code compliance)
- Preferred building layout and roofing style
- The number and type of doors and windows you require
- Whether insulation is required
Make sure you’re comparing apples with apples.
When comparing prices, it is important to understand that there are varying grades of available prefab buildings. While doing your online research, you will probably have encountered cheap metal structures from online retailers or big-box stores.
These structures normally use hollow tubular framing rather than solid-steel I-beam framing. Tubular framing does not have the same longevity or wind/snow load ratings as those with commercial-grade, steel I-beam frames, so if you go the cheaper route, remember that you’re paying for what you get.
Check manufacturer reviews.
BuildingsGuide can help you find the best deal on metal buildings and locate the most suitable suppliers for your needs. We only recommend high-quality, vetted manufacturers that we stand behind. But you should also do your own research, especially for peace of mind. Read reviews and testimonials about your supplier before you make a final decision.
Don’t get quotes from only one or two manufacturers.
Because building prices can vary based on manufacturer and location, you’ll want to get at least four quotes from different manufacturers.
Let us help you find the best supplier for your project
Further reading:
Our article section provides additional information on metal building prices and costs related to various end-use applications.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most economical metal building size?
Metal buildings only become economically viable when they reach 1,200 square feet. The cost per square foot starts to come down with structures over 4,000 square feet, with the most economical size being a commercial building in the range of 4,800 and 10,000 square feet. In essence, steel building costs per square foot decrease with the buildings size.
Which is cheaper, a pole barn or a metal building?
Typically, pole barns under 2,000 square feet are cheaper to build than metal buildings. Pole barns that don’t require a foundation will also be cheaper. But, steel buildings over 2,000 square feet can be cheaper due to recent increases in lumber prices. PEMBs are also up to 40% cheaper to construct than pole barns and require virtually no maintenance and have clear span interiors giving you 100% usable space.
Why are steel buildings less expensive to insure?
Pre-engineered buildings are generally cheaper to insure than traditional timber-framed construction because they are structurally engineered to withstand the harshest environments for snow, wind, and seismic activity. They are also inherently fire-resistant and are not susceptible to pest damage and rot. You can save up to 40% on insurance premiums in certain areas by choosing metal frame construction.
Will steel building prices go down in 2025?
There are strong indications that prices for steel buildings will soften further during 2025. Rates had already declined by 10%-15% from mid-2022. With reduced market demand, supply chain improvements, and declining hot-rolled coil (HRC) steel prices, we anticipate further price reductions throughout 2025. This could, however, be tempered by Chinese steel production levels, which have been falling since Q2 2022.
How much is a steel building in Canada?
All pricing quoted on this website are in $US. At current exchange rates, the building price per square foot in Canadian dollars equates to approx. $20/sq ft to $35/sq ft.
Is a metal building a good investment?
Metal buildings are an investment that pays off. They’re affordable (steel + prefab construction) and built to last (low maintenance, long lifespan). They resist common threats (water, fire, pests) and can be energy-efficient (saving on heating/cooling). They also hold their value, attracting renters and fetching a premium on resale. Plus, they’re eco-friendly (steel is recyclable). Expect your property value to increase by $15,000-$30,000 with a metal garage, depending on location and size.
Why choose us?
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Since 2004, over 200K buyers have saved an average of 28% on their project with our multiple quote service.
Proudly serving customers in the United States & Canada for over 20 years.
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