Cost of Building a Barndominium What You Need to Know
Barndominiums have quickly moved from niche concept to dream home favorite. But while their appeal is undeniable, one question always comes up first: what does it cost to build a barndominium?
This post lays out everything you need to know about pricing a barndominium—plus how Barndos Direct can guide you to your ideal home.
Why Barndominiums Are the New American Dream
Barndominiums, or “barndos,” fuse the charm of a barn with the comforts of a custom-built home. With their steel frames, wide-open floor plans, and minimal maintenance needs, it’s easy to see why their popularity is on the rise.
If you’re attracted to a lifestyle that blends rural character with modern amenities and energy efficiency, a barndominium might be exactly what you’re looking for.
But before you start browsing blueprints, it’s essential to understand what drives their price tags. A well-informed plan is your best tool for turning your dream into a reality.
Key Factors Affecting the Cost of Your Barndominium
Size and Layout Shape Your Investment
The first and most obvious cost driver is size. Most barndominiums range from 1,200 square feet for cozy homes up to 4,000+ square feet.
The larger the footprint and the more complex your layout, the greater your total cost.
Open-concept layouts may lower construction costs by reducing interior wall framing, but large great rooms or multi-story designs can bump up your bottom line.
Materials Steer Overall Price
Choosing between steel, wood, or hybrid framing affects more than just looks.
Steel frames typically cost more up front but offer long-term savings thanks to low maintenance and extra durability. Your roofing, siding, and window options matter, too:
Metal siding and roofing: Cost-effective, long-lasting, and fire-resistant.
Wood siding: Beautiful but may require more upkeep and a higher initial investment.
Energy-efficient windows: Save money over time but could increase up-front costs.
Location Can Change Everything
Where you build your barndominium has a huge impact on your budget. Labor rates, local building codes, and the price of acquiring land vary dramatically from state to state—even from county to county.
Building in rural areas often reduces labor and permitting costs, but site access, utility connections, and transportation can add unique challenges and expenses.
Customization Makes a Difference
Custom features transform a standard barndominium into a one-of-a-kind home, but they come with costs. Unique floor plans, upgraded kitchens, custom cabinetry, high-end appliances, smart home systems, and luxury bathroom suites all add to your budget.
Think carefully about which upgrades matter most to you and prioritize them accordingly.
Breaking Down Barndominium Costs
Understanding how your construction dollars break down helps you plan with confidence. Here’s where your budget will typically go:
Site Preparation
Before construction begins, your land must be prepped. Expenses often include:
Land clearing and grading
Soil testing
Foundation work (slab, crawl space, or basement)
Depending on your lot’s condition, site prep typically ranges from $5,000 to $15,000 or more.
Shell Construction
This is the exterior envelope of your barndominium and includes:
Structural steel or wood frame
Exterior walls and finishes
Roof installation
Materials and labor for the shell often make up the bulk of your up-front costs, ranging from $40 to $80 per square foot.
Interior Finishes
Bringing your living space to life involves:
Plumbing and electrical systems
Insulation and drywall
Flooring, painting, and trim
Kitchen and bathroom installation
Interior finishes can vary widely, from $30 to $100+ per square foot, depending on your taste and choices.
Additional Features
Don’t overlook extras such as:
Attached or detached garages
Covered porches and decks
Landscaping and driveways
Outbuildings, shops, or guest quarters
These features can significantly influence your final budget, so list your “must-haves” early.
Smart Budgeting Tips for Your Barndominium Project
Start with a Detailed Plan
Lack of planning is the number one cause of budget overruns. Work with a reputable builder to create a detailed blueprint and materials list before breaking ground.
Knowing what you want up front saves you from costly surprises later.
Explore Your Financing Options
Barndominium financing isn’t always as straightforward as a conventional home loan. Many buyers opt for construction loans that convert to a standard mortgage after the home is completed.
Compare interest rates, lender requirements, and down payment terms to find the best fit.
Build a Contingency Fund
Construction projects almost always encounter the unexpected. Set aside 10–15% of your total budget for unplanned expenses such as weather delays, material shortages, or design upgrades. A contingency fund ensures your dream home stays on track.
Why Trust Barndos Direct to Build Your Barndominium
Decades of Expertise, Hundreds of Happy Homeowners
Barndos Direct is more than just a builder—we’re your dedicated partner in every phase of barndominium construction. Our expert team of architects, engineers, and craftsmen views your vision as the guiding blueprint for everything we create.
We’ve delivered stunning homes across countless locations, adapting every project to meet our clients’ needs and preferences.
Full Customization from Concept to Completion
Your home should reflect your lifestyle, and our design process makes that possible.
From unique open-plan kitchens to bespoke workspaces and spectacular outdoor entertaining areas, the options are virtually limitless.
Hand-Picked Blueprints Curated for You
Start your project with confidence by browsing our hand-selected blueprints.
Each plan is engineered for optimal efficiency and comfort, ready to be tailored to your site, style, and budget.
Take the Next Step Toward Your Dream Barndominium
Contact Barndos Direct: Speak with our team at (931)710-0085 for a no-pressure consultation about your goals, budget, and timeline.
Specify Your Build Location: If you’re building outside Tennessee, be sure to mention your desired county or state to ensure a smooth process.
Submit Your Form: Provide your project details using our easy web form on Barndos Direct’s website. We’re eager to hear about your vision!
Building with Barndos Direct Means Confidence
Creating a barndominium is more than building a house—it’s about investing in a lifestyle. By considering key cost factors and working with an experienced, trusted partner like Barndos
Direct, you can enjoy a transparent, rewarding, and exciting building process. Your dream home is within reach; the first step is reaching out to the right experts.