How Much Does a Basement Remodel Cost?

A simple expansion into basements can vary as costly or inexpensive. As an easy reminder to keep in the back of your head, remember to list what you'll need as the homeowner and check how much you have in your budget when planning to install, remodel or just fix up that space downstairs. Are you remodeling the basement into a fitness space? Are you considering the addition of a new bathroom? Are you trying to keep your basement into a more organized storage space? Before you plan on remodeling this space, make sure to ask yourselves these questions.

 

The average basement remodel cost is $18,500, but the price can range from $5,000 to $70,000, depending on the complexity of the project. While the average cost is $18,500, the cost most homeowners reported paying is around $5,100 to $7,150. 

 

Basement Remodel Cost

Here is a general basement remodel cost estimation:

 

National Average	$18,500
Average Cost	$5,100 to $7,150
Low-End Cost	$5,000
High-End Cost	$70,000

 

There are many factors that can alter a basement reno cost. In this guide, we have basement remodeling costs split up based on square footage, type of renovation, type of room being created, type of project, as well as general labor costs.

 

Remodeling Basement Costs vs. Finishing Basement Costs

Many individuals use the terms “remodeling” and “finishing” to mean the same thing, but in actuality, they are two different tasks. 

Finishing a basement refers to taking it from its original condition, meaning with concrete flooring and exposed plumbing, and turning it into a liveable space with drywall and waterproofed features. To finish a basement, expect a cost of around $15,000 to $30,000.

Remodeling a basement means taking that finished space and turning it into a room with purpose. This can mean creating an entirely new floor, with separated rooms, or creating a single space with an intention such as a gym or a playroom. It can be much more expensive to remodel a basement than to finish it, as there are many different things that can contribute to the total cost. The cost of basement remodeling is in the range of $5,000 to $70,000.

Now that you are sure you are completing a remodel, and not a finishing project, let’s take a look at a basement remodel cost breakdown depending on square footage, as well as type of projects completed.

 

Cost to Remodel a Basement Per Square Foot

Like many home renovation projects, one of the biggest things that can affect total cost is the size of the project. The total basement remodel price will be altered based on square footage. A bigger basement will cost more than a smaller basement, typically. The cost of a basement remodel is typically $30 to $90 per square foot. 

With this cost per square foot into consideration, small basement remodel costs (500 square foot) will be $15,000 to $45,000, while a large basement remodel cost (1000 square foot) will be from $30,000 to $90,000.

Image by Christian Brothers from Flickr

Cost to Remodel a Basement by Renovation Type

A basement remodel can mean many different things. The cost of basement remodels differ based on what kind of remodel is being completed: a partial remodel, a conversion, or a full renovation. 

Partial Basement Remodel Cost

A partial basement remodel refers to keeping a basement mostly the same, but changing minor details. These minor details may include updating surfaces, such as flooring or paint. It can also mean doing a full overhaul of only a small area of the basement rather than the entire thing. While these are small changes in terms of money and effort, a partial remodel will still greatly alter the basement’s look and vibe. A partial basement remodel will cost between $10,000 to $30,000.

Basement Conversion Cost

A basement conversion refers to taking a finished or previously remodeled basement and turning it into an entirely new space. This could mean taking a finished, storage basement and turning it into an apartment. This cost will differ depending on what is being created, as this process can be a month-long invasive process with lots of different mini projects, or a simple weekend project that involves just moving furniture. The cost to convert a basement is $10,000 to $100,000. 

Full Basement Renovation Cost

A full basement renovation will alter just about every aspect of a basement. This process will include everything from the floors to the walls, to even things like electrical wiring and plumbing. A full renovation will end with a room, or more, with a dedicated purpose. It is common for homeowners to split up their basement into multiple rooms when completing a full basement renovation. A full basement renovation cost is $27,000 to $81,000. 

 

Basement Remodel Cost by Type of Room

How much does a basement remodel cost? A basement remodel will differ in price depending on the type of room you intend to create. Living areas, such as bedrooms, will have a higher cost in comparison to a room such as a gym as there will be specific building codes that must be met. The average cost to remodel basements and turn them into different types of rooms depends on how complicated the room’s features are. 

Basement to Gym Remodel

To convert a basement into a gym, expect a cost of around $2,500 to $5,000. This is an extremely common basement conversion task. Rubber gym floors will cost less than other higher-quality flooring types, and even better, they can be installed through DIY methods. Another thing to consider adding is good lighting and high quality mirrors. There are many ways to make a home gym, so there are many ways to consider your home renovation as well as many ways to add to or lessen the overall cost. 

Basement to Man (or Woman) Cave Remodel

To convert a basement into a man cave or a woman cave, expect a cost between $5,000 to $20,000. The wide range of cost is due to the wide range of potential appearance. This kind of room all depends on who the room is for. Some homeowners just simply want a space of their own, while other homeowners will want a fully decked out entertainment space. 

Basement to Laundry Room Remodel

To convert a basement into a laundry room, the cost will be between $10,000 and $15,000. A basement is a great place for a laundry room as the necessary plumbing lines are easily accessible. Creating a laundry room in a basement is much less than creating a laundry room in other parts of the house. The range in cost depends on things such as the kind of storage, whether you want a sink, as well as flooring and wall materials/finishes.

Basement to Playroom Remodel

To convert a basement into a playroom, the cost will be from $15,000 to $25,000. Just like other rooms on this list, a playroom can look vastly different depending on what you desire. A basic playroom will feature waterproofing and simple foam flooring and painted walls, while more complex playrooms will feature things such as lush carpets, shelving units, even chalkboard walls. In general, things such as lighting, waterproofing and ventilation are the biggest concerns when creating a playroom. 

Basement to Office Remodel

To convert a basement into an office, expect a cost of $15,000 to $25,000. A home office can look like many things, which is why the cost differs so greatly. If your home office is simply a place to work, the cost will be lower. If you intend to use your home office as a place for visitors or in-person meetings, you will likely have much more to consider and will likely spend more on aesthetic features.

Basement to Art Studio Remodel

To convert a basement into an art studio, the cost will be between $15,000 and $30,000. It can be challenging converting a basement into an art studio, as one of the biggest considerations for an art studio is ample lighting. Basements typically do not have good natural lighting, so artificial light should be added. Plumbing like a sink will also be added, as well as ample storage. An art studio should also be waterproofed properly in order to protect your art and art materials. 

Basement to Wine Cellar Remodel

To convert a basement into a wine cellar, the cost will be between $20,000 and $30,000. A wine cellar might not be the first thing on your mind when considering your basement, but really, there isn't a better place for it! Wine cellars require specific temperatures and humidity in order to maintain proper conditions for wine, and basements typically meet these conditions already. A simple cellar can be easily created in a basement, without much invasive work, however, larger cellars can be much more expensive.

Basement to Bedroom Remodel

To convert a basement into a bedroom, the cost will typically be $20,000 to $30,000. A basement bedroom will need a few projects completed in order to be a proper bedroom. These include, but are not limited to, framing, insulation, egress windows, as well as closets. These projects are in addition to the other projects associated with remodeling a basement. 

Basement to Living Room/Family Room Remodel

To convert a basement into a living room, the cost will typically be $20,000 to $30,000. A living room, or a family room, can look very different depending on what the homeowner desires. Like other remodels, the more features added the higher the cost. 

Basement to Bunker Remodel

To convert a basement into a bunker, the cost will typically be $20,000 to $1,000,000. There is a wide range of definitions for the word “bunker.” A bunker can be simply a storm shelter, or a place created to ride out emergencies for a long period of time. As such, the cost can range greatly. A basic bunker will include non-perishable foods, as well as other basic needs, while a more complex bunker will include things like security features. 

Basement to Apartment Remodel

To convert a basement into an apartment, the cost will be between $60,000 to $120,000. While a basement may be technically large enough to fit a full apartment, be sure that building codes are properly met. For example, a separate entrance is required to truly have a basement apartment. Other features such as a full kitchen, bathroom, closet, as well as egresses are required. 

Basement to Home Theater Remodel

To convert a basement into a home theater, the cost will be between $70,000 to $90,000. Home theaters are a popular conversion for basements. One much needed feature of home theaters is a dark room, and basements typically are already dark spots. A home theater cost depends on the kind of seating, flooring, as well as technology used. 

Image by Christian Brothers from Flickr

Basement to Garage Remodel

To convert a basement into a garage, the cost will be around $75,000 to $150,000. It is important to note, however, that not all basements can be converted into garages. Things such as your home’s location, local building codes, as well as the type and size of the basement will help you determine if this is a feasible task. Invasive work such as excavation may be required to extend a driveway into a basement. The garage must also be large enough to accommodate cars. 

 

Cost to Remodel a Basement by Project Type

Perhaps your basement remodel does not fit particularly into any of those categories, but you know exactly what projects you desire. How much does it cost to remodel a basement if you know the projects you want completed? In this section, we break down common basement remodel projects. Prices for these projects are based on an average basement, so if you have a particularly small or large basement, the cost will differ.

Cost to Paint a Basement

The average cost for basement remodeling in terms of paint is from $500 to $3,600. The price largely depends on which part of a basement you intend to paint. 

To paint basement walls, the cost is from $500 to $3,200. The cost will vary depending on how many walls need to be painted, as well as how many coats of paint are needed. Some things to consider include whether the basement is broken into multiple rooms, which will thus have more walls, as well as the color of the wall that you are painting over. As basements are dark areas, we recommend using either a semi-gloss paint or a light color. 

To paint basement ceilings, the cost is from $900 to $1,200. This cost is for painting a ceiling that is drywall, as well as for homeowners intending to paint the entire ceiling. Be aware of the material of your basement ceiling, as some materials can not be painted. For example, a ceiling made of PET felt can not be painted. 

To paint basement floors, the cost is from $1,800 to $3,600. If you have a concrete floor, and do not intend on completely replacing the floor, this is a great way to add something special to your basement. Use a thin epoxy paint for flooring, as traditional latex wall paints will not stick.

Cost to Drop Ceiling in a Basement

The cost to drop a ceiling in a basement is between $950 to $2,450. A drop ceiling is a great way to keep things such as plumbing, electrical wires, and HVAC ducts accessible as a traditional ceiling will keep these elements hard to reach. 

Cost to Replace a Basement Floor

The cost to replace a basement floor is from $950 to $31,000, depending on what you intend to install. 

To install carpet, expect a cost of around $950 to $3,000. To install carpet in your basement, be sure your basement is properly waterproofed. Basements have a tendency to be cold, so carpets are a great way to add some comfort. As a basement floor is concrete underneath, consider potentially increasing the carpet’s thickness pad. 

To install tile, the cost will be around $1,000 to $10,000. The cheapest options are ceramic floor tiles or vinyl floor tiles. In terms of maintenance, porcelain tiles are the lowest maintenance. While beautiful, stone tiles are both the most expensive as well as require the highest maintenance. 

To install polished concrete, the cost will be from $3,700 to $10,800. Polished floors are great options for basements, as they help to reflect light in dark rooms, which basements typically are. Polishing concrete is labor intensive, thus explaining the higher price tag.

To install epoxy, the cost will be from $8,000 to $13,500. While epoxy floors are durable, long-lasting and beautiful, it can be difficult to properly install them. Many individuals choose to install epoxy flooring in very specific areas, specifically high traffic areas. 

To install heated flooring, the cost will be from $11,200 to $31,000. Heated flooring can be installed when a basement is first constructed, but it also is possible to install heated flooring under existing concrete floors. One thing to note, however, is that heated flooring can raise your flooring. Another option is to completely remove past flooring and insert heated flooring rather than inserting it underneath. A last option is laying down electric mats on concrete, and then installing a different style of flooring on top. Heated flooring can quickly raise the cost to renovate a basement. 

Cost to Level a Basement Floor

To level your basement floor, expect a cost from $1,200 to $15,000. While most basement floors are leveled when being finished, they may need to be leveled again later on. There are many ways to level a floor, but the more invasive a procedure you choose, the higher the final cost will be.

Cost to Install Basement Lighting

Basements are typically thought of as dark spaces, but with proper lighting, it can feel like any other room in your home. The cost to install basement lighting is from $1,500 to $3,000. Typically, different types of lights will be used in a basement. Just like other projects, the larger your space, the higher the costs as more lighting will need to be installed.

To install bar pendant lights, expect a cost of around $200 to $400. These are great options for bar areas, as they offer task lighting for specific spaces. One difficulty of bar pendant lights in a basement is clearance, as basement ceilings tend to be extremely low and thus the bar pendant lights can hang much lower than you desire. 

To install stair lighting, it will cost from $250 to $500. Having lights on your stairs is essential as it will ensure you and your guests stay safe when moving from floor to floor. Lights can be installed in numerous places, from the top and bottom of the stairwell, to on the stairs itself, as well as beside the stairs. If you are using your basement as a home theater, you can even take inspiration from real theaters in terms of stair lighting. 

To install track lighting, it will cost from $500 to $1,000. Track lighting is a great option for homes if you need task, accent and ambient lighting depending on the situation. If you have higher ceilings, this is a great option as it allows for further functionality.  

To install wall sconces, expect a cost of $550 to $900. The best part about wall sconces is that they can be used at any height on a wall, meaning that your ceiling height is not an issue unlike other lighting options. These are great options for spots where you need extra lighting, like behind bars or besides seating areas. 

To install recessed lighting, it will cost between $800 and $2,000. Recessed lighting is a type of lighting where the light is installed in a hole in the ceiling, and then pointed downward toward the floor. This is a fantastic option as the light does not affect ceiling height whatsoever, as they are installed between the ceiling and the floor above. They can provide excellent ambient lighting, so should be used in combination with track lighting or other more directed lights. 

Basement Mold Removal Cost

To remove mold from a basement, expect a cost between $1,500 to $4,000. Mold is common in basements, even if the basement is well taken care of due to the high moisture inherent to the area. The cost to remove mold will depend on the type of mold, the extent of the damage, as well as where it is in the basement. For example, mold in a HVAC duct will be much more expensive than just on a wall.

Basement Storage Addition Cost

To add storage, the cost will be between $1,500 and $10,000. Basement remodeling estimates for storage can vary greatly. There are many ways to add storage to a basement, hence the wide variety in cost. Adding storage can mean anything from shelving, tool storage, under stairs storage, racks, closets, pantry storage, and even high quality cabinets.

To install shelving, the cost will be between $1,500 and $4,000. Basement shelving can mean custom built-in storage, as well as simple metal shelving. The cost will be determined by material type, as well as how many you need. 

To install tool storage, the cost will be in the range of $1,800 to $2,500. Similar to garages, these tool storage cabinets (which can be stock or custom) are specifically designed to hold tools. Typically, they are shallow drawers or small cubbies, made for small pieces. Typically, tool storage also comes with a workbench. 

To install stairs storage, the cost will be between $2,000 and $5,000. Storage under a staircase is a great solution as it makes the best of otherwise unused space, and it will help to free up the rest of the basement. The amount of storage you need will raise the cost, as well as if you make the area more finished. If you decide to install doors to hide the storage from view, this is also another added cost.

To install storage racks, the cost will be between $2,500 to $4,000. These kinds of racks are usually large metal racks bolted to the floor, or even to the walls. This storage solution has a lot of flexibility in terms of the type of items that can be stored. Typically, homeowners will cover one to two walls completely with these kinds of racks. 

To install storage closets, the cost will be in the range of $2,500 to $5,000. A storage closet can store just about anything. If you are remodeling the basement into a bedroom, a closet can help the room feel even more like an actual bedroom. Closets typically have other storage elements in it, for example, shelving and hanging racks.

To install pantry storage, the cost will be between $2,500 to $10,000. Pantries are typically used for a large collection of non-perishable foods and other similar items. Pantries can be both big and large, either a full closet or a small cabinet. The cost will depend on the size of the pantry.

To install storage cabinets, the cost will be between $5,000 to $10,000. Both stock and custom cabinets are great options, and can store a wide variety of items depending on how large they are. Things like material of the cabinets, size, location, and the number of cabinets you decide to install will impact the final price tag.

Basement Window Cost

Homeowners will typically spend between $2,500 to $5,300 on basement windows. It is common for basement remodels to have windows added as typically unfinished basements only have small windows. There are many different types of windows, each with their own cost associated with it.

To fill a basement window, the cost will be from $300 to $500. If your basement does not need windows, for example, if you are creating a home theater, filling in your basement windows is a great way to add some ambiance to a space. This home remodel project is a great way to make a space more energy efficient as well as secure. The total price depends on the material used to fill in the window, as well as the cost of the additional siding used on the outside. 

To install a glass block window, the cost will be between $400 to $600. Glass blocks are a beautiful window solution as they allow light as well as privacy, however, it is important to note that they cannot be used as egress windows. Therefore, if using this kind of window in a bedroom, another type of window must be installed as well. 

To replace windows, the cost will be between $1,000 to $8,000. There are many different types of windows that can be used in basements, which explains the wide range of price. The price tag will depend on material, location, as well as the status of the window you are replacing. 

To install an egress window, the cost is $2,500 to $5,300. An egress window is designed for a person to easily fit inside of in case of emergency. This kind of window is required in basement bedrooms if they do not have an egress door. Costs will vary depending on if it is an entirely new window, or if it is part of a window replacement process. 

To enlarge basement windows, the cost is $4,000 to $7,000. Not all windows can be enlarged, for example, a window well may make it impossible to expand the window. If the window is placed high above the foundation, then the window may be able to be enlarged. Costs are determined based on foundation material, as well as how much larger the new window is. 

To convert a basement window into a door, the cost is $6,000 to $8,000. This is a great way to create an egress door, however, depending on the location, this may be an invasive process. When you are converting a window to a door, remember that not all locations can be used as it depends on the outside elements as well.

 

Basement Window	Cost
Fill the Window	$300-$500
Installing a Glass Block	$400-$600
Replacing the Windows	$1000-$8000
Installing An Egress	$2500-$5300
Enlarging Basement Windows	$4000-$7000
Conversion of Basement Window into Door	$6000-$8000

Walkout Basement Door Cost

To install a walkout basement, the cost will be between $2,500 to $10,000. A walkout door will help your basement be more usable as it creates a separate entrance so your guests will not need to use the front door. Depending on the surrounding elevation, excavation may be required beforehand. Stairs are also commonly added to walkout basement doors. 

Basement Bar Building Cost

To install a bar in your basement, the average cost is from $6,000 to $10,000. This cost includes things such as cabinets, countertops, sinks, faucets, and installation. Like other construction projects, the larger your bar, the higher the cost. Other things may also contribute to the cost, including using luxury materials as well as adding small appliance amenities or seating. 

Basement Bedroom Cost

To add a bedroom to your basement, the cost is from $20,000 to $30,000. If you have a bedroom in a basement, there are particular building codes that should be met. For example, a room with framing and walls should be created, as well as finished walls and floors. You will also need features such as proper lighting, closets, and an egress window. 

Image from Pxfuel

Basement Bathroom Cost

To add a bathroom to your basement, the cost is similar to the bedroom renovation cost, from $20,000 to $30,000. Adding bathrooms anywhere has unique issues, for example, plumbing must be accessible. The space must also be waterproofed, as well as fixtures and lights must be added. 

Basement Kitchen Cost

To add a full-sized kitchen to your basement, the cost will be between $30,000 to $60,000. Kitchens will need plumbing and electrical additions in order to be a proper kitchen. You also may need a gas line to the area if you have a gas stove. Like other additions, things like walls, floors, appliances, and countertops are necessities for the space. The larger the kitchen, the higher the cost. 

Basement Expansion Cost

To expand your basement, the cost is between $40,000 to $120,000. Many people choose to extend their basement after adding a home addition above ground. Expansion is invasive work which will take quite a lot of time and effort. Expansion requires the removal of at least one foundation wall, which means the home must be supported in the meantime. 

 

Basement Cost by Type of Labor

One helpful way to look at the potential price tag for a basement remodel is to look at how much each individual professional will be paid. At a minimum, most remodel projects will require a contractor, an electrician, a plumber, as well as a floor installer. Take a look at the average cost of basement remodeling based on types of professionals hired. 

 

Jobs Required	Prices
General Contractors	25% of Final Cost With Additional Jobs
Window and Door Installers	$200-$3000
Drywall Installers	$500-$2000
Flooring Installers	$500-$4000
Painters	$500-$5000
Electricians	$1000-$1500
Carpenters	$1000-$10000
Framers	$1200-$2000
Plumbers	$2500-$5000

 

Additional Considerations and Costs

Now that you understand the average basement remodeling costs, take a look at some other issues that should be considered, some of which may add to the total cost. There are a few other things to consider before committing to a basement remodel project.

Ventilation in Basements

It is important to have proper ventilation in your basement as it will keep out potentially dangerous hazardous impurities. There are many ways to add proper ventilation to your home. One way is to simply add more windows or doors for some natural ventilation. Another way to add ventilation is to have a mechanical ventilation system installed. The typical price to ventilate a basement is around $600 to $1,000. 

Humidity and Moisture Issues in Basements

Basements are typically filled with moisture and high humidity. High humidity can contribute to other issues, such as mold and mildew. In order to get rid of some of that extra moisture, we recommend purchasing a dehumidifier. To purchase a basement dehumidifier, the cost is from $50 to $500, depending on the size of your basement. One important thing to note is that while windows and doors can help with ventilation issues, they can not help with humidity issues.

Permits for Basement Remodels

Many local ordinances require permits for basement remodels. For example, some towns may require basements to have a minimum height of 7 feet. Building permits also have a cost associated with them. For your basement remodel, we recommend planning for an extra $430 for building permits. 

Furniture for Basements

This may go without saying, but if you are creating an entirely new room in your home, you will need new furniture. Depending on the type of room, there will be varied costs of furniture. For example, if you have a room like a home theater, your large flat-screen television will cost more than if you were buying simple kid furniture for a playroom.

Temperature Issues in Basements

Your basement may be quite a bit cooler than you prefer for the rest of your home. If you live in an area with snow, the snow will make your basement feel cold. Add insulation in the areas above your basement to help combat this issue. 

Subflooring in Basements

Unlike other remodel projects, you will not need to worry about subflooring for basement remodels. In a basement, the concrete will act as a subfloor, so flooring can be added right on top.

Egress in Basements

While we talked in length about the price tag associated with different types of windows, one important thing to note is egress. In basements, windows do not need to be able to be opened at all, as long as you have some sort of egress, whether that is a door or another window.

Resale Value

A basement remodel will add home value to your home, which is helpful if you intend to sell your house down the line. If additional living space is added, even more value is added to the home. 

 

How to Hire a Basement Remodeling Contractor

Now that you have an idea of the many ways you can remodel a basement, let’s take a look at some of the best tips for hiring basement remodeling contractors. The average cost of a basement remodel can be a bit expensive, so it is worth doing your leg work before committing to a contractor. 

Read reviews, check out past work, do your research. Before you hire anyone, regardless of their role in your remodel, be sure to have a look at their past work experience. It is helpful to also check out customer reviews, as they can give you a glimpse into how they handle things such as money, timelines, and general friendliness.

Confirm their contractor license. While different states have different requirements regarding licensure, be sure that your specific contractor meets your state’s rules. 

Request quotes from multiple contractors. Once you’ve had a chance to shift through the many contractors out there, get quotes from 2 to 3 different contractors and compare their costs. This estimate should be free. Compare the costs and quality of work before deciding on a contractor.

Make sure there is a well-written contract. The contract should outline every detail of the project, including even the quantity and quality of materials used. Once you confirm that the contract is accurate, sign it and make sure all decisions are made using the contract as a guide.

Pay a deposit. Lastly, make sure you pay your deposit. The deposit should be around 10 percent or less of the total estimated cost.

 

How to Save Money on a Basement Remodel

While it may seem intimidating to start a basement remodel due to the high price tag, there are plenty of ways to save money along the way. Consider which parts of your basement remodel project that can be done by you rather than hiring a professional. For example, painting may be possible as a DIY project as can things like putting together furniture, or installing lights. 

 

Find Basement Remodeling Contractors Near You

Not sure how to find the best basement remodeling contractor for you and your project? Check out House Tipster’s excellent solution for finding the best home construction professionals near you. Search for great contractors near you and start on that dream project today.