Flooring Cost by Type in 2026
Updated 2026-10-14. All figures were checked on that date.
Short answer: installed flooring ranges from about $1.50/sq ft (sheet vinyl) to $45/sq ft (natural stone). The popular middle is LVP at $4–$12 and laminate at $3–$10 (HammerIO, as of 2026-10-14).
Calculator
Cost = area × installed range (below). "Buy" = area plus waste: 10% for straight lay, 15% for diagonal or rooms with lots of corners, 20% for herringbone (HammerIO). Round up to whole boxes.
Cost per square foot
| Material | Material | Install labor | Total installed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sheet vinyl | $0.50–$2 | $1–$3 | $1.50–$5 |
| Laminate | $1–$5 | $2–$5 | $3–$10 |
| LVP | $2–$7 | $2–$5 | $4–$12 |
| Carpet (with pad) | $1–$8 | $1–$3 | $2–$11 |
| Engineered hardwood | $3–$12 | $3–$8 | $6–$20 |
| Solid hardwood | $5–$15 | $3–$8 | $8–$23 |
| Ceramic/porcelain tile | $2–$15 | $5–$10 | $7–$25 |
| Natural stone | $5–$30 | $8–$15 | $13–$45 |
Source: HammerIO Flooring Cost Guide 2026, as of 2026-10-14.
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Hidden costs most quotes add
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Remove carpet + pad | $1–$2/sq ft |
| Remove sheet vinyl | $1–$3/sq ft |
| Remove tile | $3–$5/sq ft |
| Self-leveling compound | $1–$3/sq ft |
| Plywood underlayment | $1–$2/sq ft |
| Moisture barrier over concrete | $0.25–$1/sq ft |
| Floating-floor underlayment | $0.15–$0.75/sq ft |
Source: HammerIO, as of 2026-10-14. Before disturbing pre-1980 vinyl flooring or its adhesive, have it tested for asbestos.
Which floor where
- Bathrooms, laundry, basements: porcelain tile or LVP. Standard laminate swells when it gets wet.
- DIY-friendly: click-lock LVP, laminate and engineered plank float with basic tools. Save tile and nail-down hardwood for experienced DIYers or pros.
- Keep a spare box. Colors get discontinued, and you'll want matching boards for repairs.