Drywall Installation Cost USA 2025 – Complete Guide to Prices, Materials & Savings

Installing drywall is one of the most common steps in home remodeling and new construction across the United States. Whether you’re building a new home or renovating a single room, knowing how much drywall installation costs in 2025 can help you budget accurately and make smarter decisions.

In this guide, you’ll learn the average prices, factors that affect costs, where to buy materials near you, and how to save money—plus, we’ll help you avoid common mistakes.

Average Drywall Installation Cost in the USA (2025)

The national average for drywall installation (materials + labor) ranges between: <!– Insert Table 1 here –>

💡 Prices may vary based on your location, wall height, drywall type, and accessibility.

Drywall Cost by State (2025 Estimates)

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Labor vs Material Cost Breakdown

• Labor Only: $0.90 – $1.50/sq ft
• Materials Only: $0.60 – $1.50/sq ft

🧱 Common material costs:

• Standard 1/2″ Drywall Sheet (4’x8′): $10 – $16
• Moisture-Resistant Sheet: $14 – $22
• Fire-Rated Board: $20 – $30

Other materials:

• Screws, joint compound, tape: $50 – $150 total
• Corner beads, sandpaper, primer: optional, adds to the total

Drywall Cost Calculator (Manual)

Use this simple formula:

Example:

• Room: 10 ft x 12 ft x 8 ft high = 352 sq ft (including walls + ceiling)
• Est. Cost: 352 x $2.75 = $968 total

🧠 Tip: Add 10% extra for waste and mistakes.

📌 Coming soon: Our interactive drywall calculator!

Where to Buy Drywall Materials in the USA

Here are 9 trusted retailers where you can compare prices and buy drywall materials:

1. Lowe’s – Drywall
2. Menards
3. Ace Hardware
4. Amazon – Drywall
5. Build.com – Wallboard Supplies
6. Grainger – Construction Supplies
7. True Value
8. Harbor Freight
9. Local.com – Hardware Near You

🗺️ Find Stores Near You – Interactive Map

Looking for drywall, metal studs, or construction materials near your location? Use the interactive map below to find hardware and building supply stores close to you. No need to leave this page!

📍 Most of these sites allow you to find stores near your ZIP code or order online with delivery.

DIY vs Hiring a Contractor

Option	Pros	Cons
DIY	Lower cost, flexible schedule	Risk of poor finish, takes time
Contractor	Professional finish, fast work	Higher cost, need to supervise

👷 Drywall contractors charge an average of $45 – $70/hour or $1.20 – $2.00/sq ft depending on location.

Before hiring:

• Ask for references
• Confirm license and insurance
• Request a detailed quote

How to Save Money on Drywall Projects

• Buy in bulk from stores like Menards or Lowe’s
• Rent tools instead of buying new ones
• Get multiple quotes from local contractors
• Schedule during off-peak seasons (fall/winter)
• Use coupons or cashback platforms (like Rakuten)

Frequently Asked Questions about Drywall Installation Costs

Here are the most common questions homeowners in the USA ask when planning a drywall project in 2025.

Question	Answer
How much does drywall installation cost per square foot in 2025?	The average cost to install drywall in the USA ranges from $1.50 to $3.50 per square foot, depending on material quality, labor costs, and project complexity.
What is the cost to drywall a 12×12 room?	A 12×12 room (approximately 144 sq. ft.) costs between $300 and $700, including materials and labor. Prices may vary by state and finish level.
How long does it take to install drywall?	Installing drywall typically takes 1–3 days for a single room, plus an additional 2–4 days for mudding, taping, and sanding to achieve a smooth finish.
Is it cheaper to install drywall yourself?	DIY installation can save labor costs (around 30–40%), but it requires tools, experience, and time. For a professional finish, hiring a contractor is recommended.
Does drywall installation cost include painting?	No. Standard drywall installation covers hanging, mudding, taping, and sanding. Painting is an additional service, typically costing $1.50–$3.00 per square foot.
What factors affect drywall installation costs?	Key factors include room size, ceiling height, type of drywall (standard, moisture-resistant, soundproof), local labor rates, and whether old walls need removal.
Can drywall increase home value?	Yes. Installing new drywall or replacing damaged walls can increase property value by improving aesthetics, insulation, and overall home appeal.
What’s the difference between drywall and plaster?	Drywall is quicker and cheaper to install, while plaster offers a more durable and soundproof surface. Drywall is the most popular option for modern U.S. homes.

Conclusion

Drywall installation costs in the U.S. vary widely by region, material, and project complexity. In 2025, expect to spend around $1.50 to $3.50 per square foot, with higher prices in coastal or urban areas.

Whether you go DIY or hire a pro, knowing your costs and where to buy materials is key to saving money and avoiding delays.

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🚀 Need help estimating your drywall project?

Check out our upcoming free calculator, or start comparing prices now at:

👉 Lowe’s | Build.com | Amazon – Drywall

Type of Project	Price per Sq Ft (USD)	Total Estimated Cost
Basic Installation	$1.50 – $2.50	$1,500 – $2,500 (1000 sq ft)
Mid-Grade Finish	$2.50 – $3.50	$2,500 – $3,500 (1000 sq ft)
High-End Custom	$3.50 – $5.00+	$3,500+ (1000 sq ft)

State	Avg Cost/Sq Ft	Notes
California	$2.80 – $4.20	High labor cost, stricter codes
Texas	$1.60 – $2.90	Affordable materials, fast service
Florida	$2.10 – $3.50	Humidity-resistant board advised
New York	$3.00 – $4.50	High labor & permit requirements
Illinois	$2.00 – $3.10	Moderate labor, competitive market