Flooring: Costs by Material & Installation
Flooring cost depends mostly on the material and whether you remove the old floor. Estimate your project below, then compare the common material options.
Estimated project cost
$5,500
Typical. Range $2,700 – $11,100
- Materials
- $2,000
- Labor
- $2,800
- Contingency
- +10%
Main cost drivers
- Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) material$1,600
- LVP installation labor$1,400
- Old flooring removal$800
Illustrative estimate — not verified market pricing
These figures are planning estimates for demonstration, not current verified prices. Actual costs vary by region, materials, and contractor. Always get written quotes. See the methodology and sources below.
Want real numbers for your project? Compare written quotes from local pros.
Request contractor quotesMaterial drives the price
Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and laminate are budget-to-mid options that are durable and DIY-friendly. Engineered and solid hardwood cost more but add long-term value. Tile and natural stone sit at the higher end once labor is included.
Installation labor per square foot varies by material — floating floors (LVP, laminate) are cheaper to install than glued or nailed hardwood or set tile.
Don’t forget prep and removal
Removing old flooring, leveling the subfloor, and transitions/trim all add cost. A damaged subfloor can be a hidden expense, so budget a contingency.
Frequently asked questions
What’s the cheapest durable flooring?
Luxury vinyl plank and laminate offer a strong balance of low cost, durability, and easy installation for most rooms.
Can I install flooring myself?
Floating floors like LVP and laminate are common DIY projects. Nailed hardwood and set tile are more demanding and often best left to a pro.
Are these prices verified?
No — they are illustrative estimates. Confirm with local quotes and current material prices.