Townhouse Construction Cost
Townhouses present an appealing option for individuals seeking a blend of single-family living and condominium-style convenience. They offer similar advantages to single-family homes but at a lower construction cost, making them an attractive choice for prospective homeowners. With their unique design and layout, townhouses can maximize land usage, allowing for the construction of multiple units in smaller areas compared to single-family residences.
Townhouses vary in size and style, resulting in a range of associated costs. The national average for building a single townhouse now stands between $126,050 to $261,250, with the typical expenditure around $192,500 for a 1,500 sq.ft. traditional-style unit, fully constructed. Costs can start from $88,275 for a 750 sq.ft. townhouse utilizing some modular construction methods, while luxury options in urban settings can reach up to $369,050 for a 2,500 sq.ft. residence.
Get A Quick
Cost to Build a Townhouse Property
Townhouse | Cost |
National average | $192,500 |
Average range | $127,050 – $261,250 |
Low-end | $88,275 |
High-end | $369,050 |
Townhouse Construction Cost by Type
Building a townhouse offers you two primary construction options. The first is stick-building, a conventional approach where the townhouse is built entirely on-site. The second method is modular building, where the majority of construction takes place off-site in a controlled environment. Finished sections are then transported to the site and assembled, allowing for quicker and often more cost-effective construction compared to stick-building.
While both methods offer similar style, size, and material options, your decision may ultimately be influenced by availability and cost considerations.
Here are the average costs associated with building a townhouse using both construction methods:
Construction Type | Average Costs (Labor Included) |
Modular | $82,500 – $205,700 |
Stick Building | $127,050 – $261,250 |
Modular
Constructing a townhouse through modular building now comes with a slightly adjusted cost range of $82,500 to $205,700. Not every townhouse can be entirely modular due to their interconnected nature. If even one section is modular, the entire row typically needs to follow suit. Conversely, integrating modular sections into a stick-built structure can pose challenges. Thus, finding a firm specialized in modular construction becomes crucial. Costs fluctuate based on whether you opt for prefabricated or custom designs.
Stick Building
For traditional stick building methods, the average cost to erect a townhouse now ranges from $127,050 to $261,250. Stick building remains the predominant approach for townhouse construction, although modular methods are gaining traction. Stick building entails constructing all units on-site, allowing for greater flexibility and customization among them—a feat more challenging with modular techniques. Stick building tends to be pricier, and its progress can be impeded by weather delays. Costs for stick building also vary based on factors such as materials, location, and overall style and design preferences.
Townhouse Construction Costs Per Square Foot
Townhouses generally come with lower overall construction costs compared to single-family homes. Their shared walls and similar building styles often result in more uniform interior layouts, simplifying the construction process and potentially speeding it up. Typically, the average cost per square foot for a townhouse ranges from $121 to $148, with urban areas seeing the highest costs. In the case of modular construction, costs usually fall within the range of $77 to $121 per square foot for most projects. These cost estimates apply regardless of the number of units being constructed, with four units being the average.
Here are the updated average costs to build a townhouse in common sizes for both construction types:
Size | Average Costs (Traditional Construction) | Average Costs (Modular Construction) |
750 sq.ft. | $90,750 – $111,375 | $57,750 – $90,750 |
1,000 sq.ft. | $121,000 – $148,500 | $77,000 – $121,000 |
1,500 sq.ft. | $181,500 – $222,750 | $115,500 – $181,500 |
1,700 sq.ft. | $205,700 – $252,450 | $130,900 – $205,700 |
2,000 sq.ft. | $242,000 – $297,000 | $154,000 – $242,000 |
2,250 sq.ft. | $272,250 – $334,125 | $173,250 – $272,250 |
2,500 sq.ft. | $302,500 – $371,250 | $192,500 – $302,500 |
Download Template For Townhouse Project Breakdown
- Materials list updated to the zip code
- Fast delivery
- Data base of general contractors and sub-contractors
- Local estimators
Cost to Build a Townhouse per Number of Units
Number of Units | Average Cost Range (Stick-Built) | Average Cost Range (Modular) |
1 Unit | $181,500 – $222,750 | $115,500 – $181,500 |
4 Units | $726,000 – $891,000 | $462,000 – $726,000 |
5 Units | $907,500 – $1,113,750 | $577,500 – $907,500 |
Complex | $1,144,000 – $1,397,000 | $825,000 – $1,144,000 |
Building a Townhouse
Constructing an individual townhouse using traditional methods typically ranges from $181,500 to $222,750. Opting for modular construction for the same unit would cost around $115,500 to $181,500. Townhouses are seldom built alone; they’re usually part of a cluster with shared walls to minimize costs compared to standalone single-family homes. While these figures represent the cost per unit, they serve as a useful benchmark for larger projects since the per-unit costs tend to remain consistent.
Building 4 Townhouses
The average cost to build a set of four townhouses using traditional construction is approximately $726,000 to $891,000. Alternatively, employing modular construction for four townhouses would total around $462,000 to $726,000. Townhouses are commonly constructed in groups, with four being a typical size. The shared infrastructure aids in cost reduction compared to standalone homes. These costs encompass fully finished townhouse groups, inclusive of interior and exterior finishes.
Building 5 Townhouses
For a cluster of five townhouses constructed conventionally, the cost would range from $907,500 to $1,113,750. Utilizing modular construction for the same number of townhouses would amount to approximately $577,500 to $907,500. Groups of five townhouses are also prevalent, even in larger complexes. The costs provided assume each townhouse is fully equipped with a single-car garage and finished to completion.
Cost of Building a Townhouse Complex
Townhouse complexes using traditional building methods typically cost between $1,144,000 and $1,397,000. Alternatively, opting for modular construction would result in an expenditure of roughly $825,000 to $1,144,000. A townhouse complex usually comprises a minimum of four or five units, along with shared communal spaces such as yards, landscaping, and parking. Additional shared amenities like gyms or pools may also be included, introducing variables into the overall cost. It’s worth noting that while modular construction lowers building costs, expenses for parking, landscaping, and other communal features remain consistent with traditional methods.
Townhouse Cost by Style
Townhouses come in various styles and configurations beyond the traditional layout. Generally, they can be categorized into three main types, each with its own unique characteristics in terms of style, size, and layout.Â
The Traditional style is the most prevalent, with townhouses arranged side by side in rows. This method is the most common and cost-effective.
The Stacked townhouse style features two townhouses stacked on top of each other in rows, maintaining the side-by-side arrangement.Â
Urban-style townhouses are typically found in urban areas, boasting larger dimensions and wider interiors that match the surrounding environment. While offering spacious interiors and Florida exteriors, these are the most expensive to construct.
Outlined below are the average costs per square foot for each of these styles using both building methods:
Style | Average Costs per Sq.Ft. (Stick-Built) | Average Costs per Sq.Ft. (Modular) |
Traditional | $121 – $148 | $77 – $121 |
Stacked | $137.50 – $154 | $93.50 – $126.50 |
Urban | $159.50 – $187 | $132 – $165 |
Traditional Townhouse
The average cost of constructing a traditional townhouse using stick-built methods ranges from $121 to $148 per square foot. Opting for modular construction brings the average cost down to $77 to $121 per square foot. Traditional townhouses are the quintessential representation of this housing type, commonly spanning two floors with bedrooms on the upper level and living spaces below. They often feature finished basements, alongside garages and occasionally yards, and share one to two walls with neighboring townhouses.
Stacked Townhouses
Building stacked townhouses with traditional methods costs approximately $137.50 to $154 per square foot, while modular techniques bring the cost down to $93.50 to $126.50 per square foot. Stacked townhouses, though less common, are prevalent in densely populated areas and suburbs. This style maintains the basic layout of traditional townhouses but doubles the number of units within one row by stacking one townhouse atop another, resulting in a total building height of four stories. Each unit typically has a street-level entrance, with garages located in a rear alley.
Urban Townhouse
Constructing an urban townhouse averages $159.50 to $187 per square foot using traditional methods and $132 to $165 per square foot using modular construction. Urban townhouses closely resemble traditional models but exhibit more contemporary styles and layouts. They may boast larger floor plans and more open interiors, with exteriors designed to harmonize with urban environments, often featuring innovative designs. Due to their prime locations and distinctive exteriors and layouts, urban townhouses tend to command higher construction costs.
Townhouse Construction Cost Breakdown
Constructing a townhouse involves the coordination of numerous professionals and components, much like any other construction project. While each project is unique, you can gain a general understanding of the cost breakdown by considering the typical materials used in constructing a moderate 1,500 sq.ft. townhouse in a traditional style. It’s essential to note that not every project will utilize the same components, which can affect the overall cost.
The breakdown of costs differs between modular construction and traditional stick building methods, providing insight into how expenses are distributed. Below, you’ll find the average cost breakdown for a single townhouse using traditional building methods:
Project Area | Average Costs |
Architect Fees (Added to Total) | $19,057.50 – $33,412.50 |
Structural Engineer (Added to Total) | $550 – $22,000 |
Contractor Fees (Added to Total) | $45,375 – $55,687.50 |
Foundation | $16,335 – $20,047.50 |
Floor Structure | $21,780 – $26,730 |
Walls and Exterior Finish | $10,890 – $26,730 |
Roof | $18,150 – $22,275 |
Windows and Doors | $9,075 – $11,137.50 |
Interior Finish | $10,890 – $22,275 |
Flooring | $5,445 – $11,137.50 |
Interior Features | $5,445 – $11,137.50 |
Bathrooms | $7,260 – $8,910 |
Kitchens | $14,520 – $17,820 |
$18,150 – $22,275 | |
$21,780 – $26,730 |
Get 5 New Leads in the Next 7 Days With Our System
- Multi-Family Building
- Hotel Building
- Hospital Building
- Warehouse Building
- High-Rise Building
- Shopping Complex
Pros and Cons of Living in a Townhouse
Townhouses offer a unique blend of single-family home living and condominium living. When residing in a townhouse, you maintain responsibility for both the interior and exterior of your property, but you share at least one wall with a neighboring unit. This arrangement provides you with greater autonomy over your living space and its upkeep, yet you’re also subject to the decisions and actions of your neighbors.
One advantage of living in a townhouse is that typically, the homeowners association (HOA) covers maintenance of common areas. It’s essential to note that these HOA fees can be relatively high. On the plus side, residing in a townhouse fosters a sense of community, offering opportunities for social interaction with neighbors. Additionally, many townhouse communities provide access to shared amenities such as a pool or clubhouse, enhancing your overall living experience.
Townhouse vs Condo
When comparing townhouses and condos, it’s common to note similarities as they both involve shared spaces governed by an association. There are distinct differences between them. In a condo, residents are responsible for the interior of their living space, while the condo association oversees and maintains the exterior. Conversely, in a townhouse, homeowners are accountable for both the interior and exterior of their property, with only communal areas managed by the homeowner’s association. This arrangement grants greater independence in a townhouse but necessitates more personal maintenance, upkeep, and potential repairs.
Another difference lies in privacy; townhouses typically offer more privacy as they have neighbors only on either side, whereas condos may have neighbors above, below, and on both sides. Additionally, while townhouses always feature separate entrances, condos can vary in configurations. Some may have shared exterior entrances, hallways, and stairwells, resulting in a broader range of layout options compared to townhouses.
Home | Average Costs (Labor Included) |
Condo | $82,500 – $165,000 |
Townhouse | $126,500 – $261,250 |
Conclusion
Townhouses offer an enticing housing solution blending the benefits of single-family living and condominium convenience. With diverse styles and costs, they cater to various preferences and budgets, making them an appealing choice for prospective homeowners. Construction methods, such as stick-building and modular techniques, offer flexibility and cost-effectiveness, with costs ranging from $126,500 to $261,250 for a single unit. Townhouses provide autonomy over living spaces while fostering community and shared amenities. Contrasted with condos, they offer greater privacy and independence in maintenance. Ultimately, townhouses represent a versatile and attractive housing option suitable for a range of lifestyles and preferences.
FAQs
The national average for building a single townhouse ranges from $126,050 to $261,250, with the typical expenditure around $192,500 for a 1,500 sq.ft. unit. Costs can vary based on size, location, and construction method.
Two primary methods are stick-building and modular construction. Stick-building involves on-site construction, while modular building entails off-site assembly and transportation of finished sections.
Stick-building typically ranges from $127,050 to $261,250, while modular construction costs range from $82,500 to $205,700. Modular methods can offer cost savings and faster construction times.
Factors such as size, location, materials, labor costs, and design complexity can impact construction costs. Luxury features, urban settings, and customization also contribute to variations in pricing.
The average cost per square foot ranges from $121 to $148 for traditional construction and $77 to $121 for modular construction. Urban areas may see higher costs per square foot.
Building multiple units simultaneously can reduce costs per unit due to shared infrastructure and economies of scale. Costs for a single unit may differ from those of a larger complex.
Google Reviews
"Precision in Planning, Excellence in Execution" Read More
Our experience with Estimate Florida Consulting's takeoff and estimating services has been outstanding. Their accuracy and attention to detail have greatly improved our project planning and budgeting. Their team is knowledgeable and always ready to assist with any queries. Since we started using their services, our efficiency has increased, and we've been able to bid more competitively on projects.
"Streamlining Construction with Insightful Accuracy" Read More
Working with Estimate Florida Consulting has been a game changer for us. Their comprehensive and detailed takeoff and estimating services have enabled us to streamline our procurement process and manage our resources more effectively. They have a keen eye for details and their estimates often include insights that help us in making strategic decisions. It's rare to find a service that combines such high levels of accuracy and customer service.
"Reliability and Expertise in Every Estimate" Read More
I highly recommend Estimate Florida Consulting for any commercial construction project. Their takeoff and estimating services are top-notch, providing us with reliable and detailed data that is essential for our project success. Their team is not only technically proficient but also friendly and approachable, making every interaction a pleasant experience.
Previous
Next
Process To Get Townhouse Construction Estimate Report
Here I am going to share some steps to get your townhouse construction estimate report.
