💡 Want a precise local estimate? Use our free Drywall Installation cost calculator — adjusts for your city and scope of work.
Cost by Project Scope
| Scope | Low Estimate | High Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Single room (200–400 sqft) | $800 | $2,500 |
| Master bedroom / living room | $1,500 | $4,000 |
| Open-plan space (800–1,500 sqft) | $3,500 | $7,000 |
| Full house (1,500–3,000 sqft) | $8,000 | $20,000 |
Cost Breakdown by Component
| Component | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Drywall sheets (material) | $0.40 | $0.80/sqft |
| Hanging labor | $0.80 | $1.40/sqft |
| Taping & mudding | $0.80 | $1.20/sqft |
| Finishing (Level 4) | $0.60 | $0.90/sqft |
| Corner bead & trim | $200 | $500 flat |
| Texture (optional) | $0.40 | $0.80/sqft |
| Delivery & disposal | $150 | $400 flat |
Cost by US Region
Labor rates and material costs vary significantly by location. Here's how costs differ across US regions:
| Region | Low | High | Multiplier |
|---|---|---|---|
| South (TX, FL, GA) | $1,200 | $3,000 | 0.82–0.95× |
| Midwest (OH, IL, MI) | $1,400 | $3,500 | 0.88–1.10× |
| Mountain (CO, AZ, UT) | $1,500 | $3,800 | 0.95–1.05× |
| Northeast (NY, MA, CT) | $2,000 | $5,500 | 1.12–1.35× |
| West (CA, WA, OR) | $2,200 | $6,000 | 1.10–1.55× |
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much drywall do I need for a room?
Calculate total wall area: perimeter × ceiling height, minus doors and windows. A typical 12×12 bedroom needs ~400 sqft of drywall. Add 10% for waste and cuts. Standard sheets are 4×8 ft (32 sqft each).
What's the difference between drywall finish levels?
Level 3: texture-ready. Level 4: paint-ready (standard for most rooms). Level 5: skim coat, required for high-gloss paint or critical lighting. Each level adds $0.50–$1.00/sqft to the cost.
Can I hang drywall myself to save money?
DIY drywall hanging can save $0.80–$1.40/sqft in labor. Taping and finishing is harder — a poor tape job shows through paint. Most homeowners DIY the hanging and hire professionals for taping/finishing.
How long does drywall installation take?
A single bedroom takes 1–2 days for hanging, plus 2–3 days for taping/finishing/drying. Full house drywall typically takes 1–3 weeks including drying time between mud coats.
What type of drywall should I use?
Standard 1/2" for most walls. 5/8" Type X for fire-rated assemblies (garages, shared walls). Moisture-resistant (green board) for bathrooms/kitchens. Soundproof drywall for home theaters or bedrooms near noise sources.
Calculate Your Local Cost
Costs vary by up to 80% depending on your city. Use our city-specific calculators for a more accurate estimate: