Building a pole barn is a smart choice, giving you a budget-friendly solution for different building needs. These kits come with everything you need, making it super easy to put together. The design is flexible, perfect for farms, homes, and businesses, with spacious interiors and no need for extra walls.
The pole barn kit prices? Around $27,000 on average, but it can vary from $3,800 to $300,000 based on size, design, and materials. [1]
In this article, I’ll break down what affects the cost of pole barn kits. Let me guide you through “how much does a pole barn kit cost“, so you can make smart choices for your project.
How Much Does a Pole Barn Cost to Build
Constructing a pole barn involves costs for materials, design choices, and its purpose. On average, pole barn kit cost will be around $15 to $40 per square foot, and if you add things like electricity and plumbing, it can go up to $35 to $110 per square foot or more. [2]
Breaking it down, most of the cost, about 65% to 75%, is for materials like the frame, roof, doors, and other important parts.
Don’t forget about the workers – skilled folks make sure the pole barn is sturdy and long-lasting.
The final bill can change based on extras like insulation, electricity, plumbing, and finishes. Considering these helps plan a budget for a successful pole barn project.
Now, let’s check out a table showing pole barn costs by size.
| Size | Square feet | Average cost | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16×16 | 256 | $3,800 – $10,200 | 1-car garage, 1-horse barn |
| 20×20 | 400 | $6,000 – $16,000 | 1 or 2-car garage, 2-horse barn, 30 bales of hay |
| 20×30 | 600 | $9,000 – $24,000 | 1 or 2-car garage, 2-horse barn, 50 bales of hay |
| 24×24 | 576 | $8,600 – $23,000 | 1 or 2-car garage, 2-horse barn |
| 30×30 | 900 | $13,500 – $36,000 | 3-car garage, small retail space, 4-horse barn |
| 30×40 | 1,200 | $18,000 – $48,000 | 8-horse stall, small retail space, 100 bales of hay |
| 30×50 | 1,500 | $22,500 – $60,000 | 4-car garage, 125 bales of hay, 10 horse stable |
| 30×60 | 1,800 | $27,000 – $72,000 | 6-car garage, machine shop, 12-horse barn |
| 36×36 | 1,296 | $19,500 – $52,000 | 100 bales of hay, 8 horse stable |
| 36×50 | 1,800 | $27,000 – $72,000 | Multi-office unit, auto or tractor workshop |
| 40×40 | 1,600 | $24,000 – $64,000 | 10 horse stall, 130 bales of hay |
| 40×50 | 2,000 | $30,000 – $80,000 | 150 bales of hay, 12 horse barn |
| 40×60 | 2,400 | $36,000 – $96,000 | 200 bales of hay, industrial workshop |
| 40×80 | 3,200 | $48,000 – $128,000 | 250 bales of hay, 20 horse barn, a 2-bedroom house |
| 50×80 | 4,000 | $60,000 – $160,000 | 12-car garage, 2 or 3-bedroom house |
| 50×100 | 5,000 | $75,000 – $200,000 | 3-bedroom house, 400 bales of hay |
| 60×80 | 4,800 | $72,000 – $192,000 | Industrial machine shop or warehouse |
| 60×90 | 5,400 | $81,000 – $216,000 | 450 bales of hay, 4-bedroom house, 35-horse barn |
| 60×100 | 6,000 | $90,000 – $240,000 | Commercial warehouse / horse riding arena |
Average Pole Barn Cost per Square Foot
There are two main things to think about: materials (or kit shell) and the workers who build it.
Materials can be $10 to $30 per square foot. If you want better stuff or a fancy design, it might cost more. But it’s a good idea to spend a bit more for quality materials – it makes your barn last longer.
Workers usually cost $5 to $10 per square foot. It’s smart to hire skilled workers. They make sure your barn is built right and safe. Don’t try to save money here – it could cause problems later.
Finishing the pole barn, including site prep, foundation, utilities, and inside living space, can be $35 to $110 per square foot.
Add up the material and worker costs, and building a pole barn might be $50 to $150 per square foot. [3] This gives you choices to pick the quality and style you want.
Pole Barn Cost Estimator by Type
Starting a pole barn project is exciting, and understanding costs is essential. Now, let me break down the estimated expenses for different types of pole barns.
1. Pole Shed
Need affordable storage? A pole shed is great, costing $3,000 to $8,000. With pre-cut kits, it’s budget-friendly. Skip the concrete for extra savings.
2. Pole Barn Garage
For a reliable garage at a good price, consider a pole barn. A basic 2-car garage with kits is $6,000 to $23,000. It’s cost-effective due to easy installation and fewer labor costs.
3. Pole Barn with Living Quarters
Looking for a barn that’s not just for tools but can also be your cozy home? Check out a pole barn with living space! Prices range from $30,000 to $120,000, depending on size. And the bonus? Adding a furnished apartment not only boosts your property’s value but could earn you rental income too!
Thinking of adding a kitchen? Here’s a quick cost guide:
- Cabinet installation: $150 to $500 per linear foot.
- Countertops: $50 to $150 per square foot, depending on the material.
- Laminate flooring: $3 to $8 per square foot.
4. Complete Pole Barn House
Dreaming of rural living? Build a complete pole barn house! A 2,400-square-foot home with posts spaced 8 to 12 feet apart and anchored in the ground could cost $120,000 to $300,000.
Or try a barndominium—steel-framed with columns spaced 12 to 20 feet apart on a concrete foundation. Budget between $150,000 to $315,000 for a finished 2,000-square-foot haven. Your dream home is closer and more affordable than you think!
Pole Barn Finishing Cost Estimator
Building a pole barn involves more than just putting up the frame; it’s about adding the finishing touches to make it work well and look good. Let’s go through the costs of making a fully functional and good-looking pole barn.
1. Site Prep and Land Clearing
Before we start building, we need to get the place ready. The cost depends on things like where the land is, how high it is, the kind of ground we’ve got, the size of the building pad, and how many trees need to be cleared.
- Land survey: Costs $380 to $540 for a precise survey.
- Land clearing: Varies from $1,200 to $3,700, depending on the trees.
- Excavation: Can cost between $2.50 and $15.00 per cubic yard, based on what we need.
- Land leveling or grading: For a pro-level surface, budget around $0.40 to $2.00 per square foot.
2. Pole Barn Concrete Floor
Choosing a concrete floor is a smart move. It’s tough and versatile. Expect to pay around $5 to $10 per square foot, considering how thick the slab is and if it needs extra support. And don’t forget building permits, which usually run from $500 to $2,000 but are a must for any slab construction.
3. Roofing and Siding
Roof materials set you back $3 to $6 per square foot. Want budget-friendly? Go for asphalt shingles. Feeling fancy? Consider metal or wood shakes, but they’ll cost a bit more.
Now, onto the outside look. Siding ranges from $3 to $13 per square foot. Want a unique touch? Faux stone siding is an option at $10 to $45 per square foot, including installation.
4. Windows and Doors
Windows aren’t just pretty; they’re your barn’s eyes. Prices range from $150 to $1,000 per barn window. Quality windows make your barn look good and save energy.
Doors aren’t just doors; they’re protectors. Exterior barn doors go from $300 to $1,900. Stylish and secure, worth the investment. Interior doors, keeping things tidy, cost $225 to $825. To brighten up, skylights are a game-changer at $1,600 to $4,200 for that natural glow.
5. Pole Building Insulation & Drywall
Let’s make your pole barn super comfy! Consider metal building spray foam insulation, costing $1.00 to $4.50 per sq ft. It keeps things just right, saving energy and controlling moisture. Framing for the inside costs $18 to $24 per linear foot, not including insulation and drywall.
Give your space a neat look with drywall, costing $1.50 to $3.50 per sq ft for installation. It’s not just about looks; drywall adds fire resistance and soundproofing. Balance insulation and drywall for maximum comfort.
6. HVAC, Electrical, and Plumbing
Plan for electricity, water, gas, and septic services. Costs range from $9,000 to $34,500 for connections. A new septic tank is $3,280 to $5,040. Water supply needs $25 to $65 per foot for a new well, plus $1,700 to $3,000 for connecting the water main.
Boost comfort with HVAC investments of $7,000 to $16,000, including ductwork. Electrical wiring costs vary from $6,000 to $22,500. Plumbing rough-in for new construction costs $2,280 to $5,120. Plan it right for a well-equipped pole barn.
7. Add-ons and Interior Finishes
Transform your pole barn into a personalized haven with thoughtful finishes. Flooring costs $6 to $10 per sq ft. Painting adds charm at $1 to $6 per sq ft, and lighting fixtures cost $70 to $300 each, or around $3,000 for the whole place.
Make the outside pretty too! Landscaping costs $4 to $12 per sq ft. Adding a lean-to costs $15 to $19 per sq ft. Balance utility with beauty for a super cool living space.
Pole Barn Labor Cost Per Square Foot
Building a pole barn involves more than just materials; there’s labor too. Normally, the labor costs between $5 to $10 per square foot. The good news? Trusted pole barn companies offer pro installation services in their areas, making it easy for you.
Hiring a General Contractor
For big projects or turning my pole barn into a home, hiring a general contractor is smart. They charge between $50 to $150 an hour, covering everything from prep to finishing. Having a skilled pro in charge ensures a smooth process, meeting high standards.
Employing a Structural Engineer
Sometimes, tweaking the pole barn needs an engineer, costing $100 to $220 an hour. They make sure my barn meets specific needs and stays strong. Investing in their help ensures my barn can handle whatever comes its way, ensuring it lasts a long time.
DIY Pole Barn Cost
Building your own pole barn is a clever choice for hands-on individuals, saving a bunch on labor costs. The cost for a DIY Pole Barn kit starts at around $15,000, [4] but prices depend on where you are, the size, and any extras you want. Putting it together isn’t just affordable; it’s personally satisfying.
Keep in mind that DIY projects take time, effort, and a bit of know-how. If you’re new to construction, you might face challenges leading to mistakes and added expenses. Also, using tools without proper knowledge can affect the barn’s structure. Keep this in mind as you take on your own DIY pole barn – a cost-effective and personally rewarding project!
Can You Finance a Pole Barn?
Need cash for your Pole Barn project? You can get loans for it – like personal, construction, or home equity loans from good banks. Some pole barn companies also offer their own financing options. This helps you compare and find the best deal for what you need. Just check out these choices and pick what suits your money plans best.
