Drywall installation cost: what pros charge in 2026
Short answer: hanging and finishing drywall costs about $2.80 to $3.40 per square foot, from about $2.40 in lower-cost areas to $4.40 in New York (HomeGnome). A 500-square-foot job runs about $1,400 to $1,700.
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 sq ft | $2.80–$3.40 |
| 200 sq ft | $560–$680 |
| 500 sq ft | $1,400–$1,700 |
| 1,000 sq ft | $2,800–$3,400 |
| Level 3 finish, per sq ft | $1.20–$2.70 |
| Level 5 finish, per sq ft | $1.50–$3.50 |
| 1/2-inch sheet (material) | About $17 |
Fixing holes rather than hanging new sheets? See drywall repair cost.
Handyman or licensed pro?
Hanging and finishing drywall is handyman work. Large jobs can cross your state's dollar limit, and moving walls or framing may need a permit. Rules vary by state; see handyman license requirements by state.
How to quote it
- Measure wall and ceiling area and add 10% to 15% for waste.
- Agree on the finish level in writing; Level 4 is the usual standard for painted walls.
- Quote paint separately.
More prices in the handyman price list.
Sources
Questions
How much does drywall installation cost per square foot?
About $2.80 to $3.40 per square foot hung and finished, according to HomeGnome.
How much does it cost to drywall a room?
A room with 400 to 500 square feet of wall and ceiling runs about $1,100 to $1,700.
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