Crown molding installation cost: what pros charge in 2026
Short answer: crown molding typically costs $5 to $20 per linear foot installed and about $600 to $2,500 per room, around $1,100 on average (Inch Calculator). Labor alone is roughly $3 to $12 a foot.
National figures from the sources listed at the bottom. Local prices vary; use them as a starting point.
What it costs
| Item | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Installed, per linear foot | $5–$20 |
| Per room | $600–$2,500 (average $1,100) |
| Labor only, per foot | $3–$12 |
| MDF (material, per foot) | $1–$7 |
| Polyurethane (material, per foot) | $2–$10 |
| Maple / cherry (material, per foot) | $4–$10 / $8–$14 |
| Plaster (material, per foot) | $6–$20 |
Handyman or licensed pro?
Crown molding is finish carpentry and needs no trade license. It is slower than baseboard because of ceiling height and coped or mitered corners, so price it per foot with a per-room minimum. Rules vary by state; see handyman license requirements by state.
How to quote it
- Count inside and outside corners: they take most of the time.
- Add a ladder or scaffold line for ceilings over 9 feet.
- Quote caulk, fill and paint separately.
More prices in the handyman price list.
Sources
Questions
How much does crown molding cost per foot?
About $5 to $20 per linear foot installed, depending on material and ceiling height.
How much does crown molding cost for one room?
About $600 to $2,500, around $1,100 on average.
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