What You’ll Really Pay for a Detached Garage in 2025
How much to build a detached garage ranges from $4,800 to $40,000+, with most homeowners spending around $26,400 for a standard two-car structure.
The wide price range depends on your materials, location, foundation type, and whether you choose stick-built construction or prefab options.
Building a detached garage is one of those projects where the sticker shock hits fast, then reality sets in even faster. One day you’re thinking “how hard could it be?” and the next you’re comparing quotes that span $20,000+ differences for what looks like the same structure.
The truth is, every garage build is different. Your soil conditions, local labor rates, material choices, and even HOA requirements can swing costs dramatically. Add in the hidden expenses most homeowners miss—like utility hookups, permits, and site prep—and suddenly that “simple” garage project becomes a major investment.
But here’s what I’ve learned after building thousands of structures across Utah, Idaho, Iowa, and Nebraska: understanding the real costs upfront saves you from painful surprises later.
How Much to Build a Detached Garage in 2025
Let’s talk real numbers. The national average for how much to build a detached garage hovers around $20,400, but that’s like saying the average temperature in Nebraska is comfortable—it doesn’t tell you whether to pack shorts or a winter coat.
After nearly three decades building garages across Utah and Nebraska, I’ve seen costs swing from $5,000 for a no-frills one-car garage all the way up to $40,600 for a two-car masterpiece with all the bells and whistles. The difference? It’s all in the details.
One-car garages (12×16, 240 square feet) typically run $4,800 to $12,800 for stick-built construction. At the lower end, you’re getting solid construction with vinyl siding and standard asphalt shingles—nothing fancy, but it’ll protect your car for decades. The higher end brings upgraded materials and finishes that’ll make your neighbors take notice.
Two-car garages (20×24, 480 square feet) hit that sweet spot most homeowners love, running $8,600 to $22,000. This size gives you room for two vehicles plus storage without breaking the bank. It’s no coincidence that our $20,400 national average falls right in this range—it’s what most folks are building.
Three-car garages (30×20, 600 square feet) step up to $24,000 to $42,000. Here’s where you start seeing some economies of scale kick in. The fixed costs—permits, electrical hookups, site prep—get spread over more space, so your cost per square foot starts looking friendlier.
Four-car garages (24×45, 1,080 square feet) represent the premium end at $43,200 to $75,600. These aren’t just garages—they’re automotive sanctuaries with workshop space, storage lofts, and sometimes even apartment potential for future conversion.
The $40 to $70 per square foot range holds true across most builds, though smaller garages often push toward the higher end due to those fixed costs I mentioned. It’s like buying in bulk—the more square footage you build, the better your per-square-foot deal becomes.
Regional differences definitely matter. We’ve noticed labor costs in urban Utah areas run 15-20% higher than rural Iowa or Nebraska, while material costs stay pretty consistent across our service areas. Local building codes and permit requirements can also nudge costs up or down.
Square-Foot Math: “How Much to Build a Detached Garage” by Size
Here’s where the math gets interesting. That $40-70 per square foot isn’t just a random range—it reflects real differences in efficiency and scale.
Your 12×16 one-car garage might hit the higher end of that range because fixed costs like permits, electrical service, and foundation work don’t shrink just because your garage does. You’re still paying for a building permit whether you’re building 240 square feet or 1,080 square feet.
20×24 two-car garages often deliver the best value, typically landing in the $33-58 per square foot range. There’s something magical about this size—it’s large enough for efficient construction but not so big that complexity costs start piling up.
30×20 three-car garages maintain that $40-70 per square foot range, but you’re getting more bang for your buck. The extra space allows our crews to work more efficiently, and material deliveries become more cost-effective.
24×45 four-car garages can actually achieve some of the best per-square-foot pricing, especially on the lower end of that range. You’re spending more total dollars, but you’re getting premium space at a reasonable rate.
Timeline & Typical Build Duration
Let me walk you through what actually happens when we build your garage, because understanding the timeline helps explain some of those costs.
Site preparation takes 1-3 days and sets the tone for everything that follows. We’re talking excavation, grading, and getting that foundation area perfectly level. Rocky soil or unexpected drainage issues can stretch this phase, but proper prep work prevents headaches later.
Foundation work spans 2-5 days, with most of that being cure time. We pour your concrete slab on day one, then wait 3-5 days for it to reach full strength before framing begins. Rushing this step is like building a house on quicksand—technically possible, but not recommended.
Framing takes 3-7 days depending on complexity. A straightforward two-car garage with a simple roofline? Our experienced crews can have it framed in about a week. Add dormers, multiple roof angles, or workshop areas, and we’re looking at the longer end of that range.
Roofing and siding consume 5-10 days, weather permitting. This is where Mother Nature gets her vote. We can’t install siding in driving rain or shingle a roof in 40-mph winds, so we always build buffer time into our schedules.
Electrical and finishing work wraps up in 3-5 days. Final electrical hookups, garage door installation, and those finishing touches that make your garage feel complete rather than just functional.
Total project duration runs 4-8 weeks from groundbreaking to final inspection. Weather, size, and complexity all factor in, but most homeowners find this timeline reasonable for such a substantial addition to their property.
Comprehensive Cost Breakdown & Key Drivers
After building garages for over 25 years, I can tell you that understanding where your money goes makes all the difference in planning your project. Most homeowners get surprised by costs they never saw coming, but how much to build a detached garage becomes much clearer when you break down the major expense categories.
The foundation alone will run you $4-10 per square foot, with most concrete slabs hitting around $6 per square foot. But here’s where it gets tricky—we’ve seen foundation costs jump to $10+ when soil testing reveals clay or rocky conditions that need special handling. That “simple” foundation suddenly needs extra excavation or specialized footings.
Framing costs eat up $7-16 per square foot of your budget, and lumber prices can swing wildly based on market conditions. Scientific research on framing costs confirms what we’ve experienced firsthand—quality framing materials directly impact your long-term maintenance costs, making it worth the upfront investment.
Your siding choice impacts costs from $2-9 per square foot. Basic vinyl starts around $2-7 per square foot, while premium options can reach the higher end. We’ve learned that skimping on siding usually costs more in the long run through repairs and replacements.
Roofing runs $4-8 per square foot for standard asphalt shingles, though metal roofing can range from $1-25 per square foot depending on the style. The wide range reflects everything from basic corrugated metal to premium standing seam systems.
Here’s the big one that catches people off guard: labor accounts for 50-60% of your total project cost. In our Utah, Idaho, Iowa, and Nebraska markets, this translates to anywhere from $3,000-15,000 depending on your garage size and complexity.
Don’t forget the smaller but necessary expenses. Permits typically cost $200-1,500, varying significantly by location and project scope. Utility connections add another $1,000-5,000 to your budget—electricity runs $1,000-2,500 on average, while plumbing can add $600-1,600 per fixture if you’re planning a utility sink or bathroom.
Materials That Move the Needle
The materials you choose can easily swing your project cost by $10,000 or more. I’ve seen homeowners make decisions that seemed minor but added thousands to their final bill.
Concrete slab foundation at $6 per square foot forms the backbone of your entire project. We always recommend a minimum 4-inch thickness with proper reinforcement—trying to save money here usually backfires when you’re dealing with settling or cracking later.
When it comes to siding, LP SmartSide costs $4-9 per square foot compared to vinyl siding at $2-7 per square foot. That price difference might seem significant upfront, but LP SmartSide’s durability and curb appeal often justify the investment.
Roofing material choices really show the range of options available. Asphalt shingles at $4.25-8.25 per square foot provide excellent value for most homeowners. Metal roofing costs more initially at $1-25 per square foot, but it can last 50+ years with minimal maintenance—something worth considering if you’re planning to stay in your home long-term.
Insulation adds $0.50-1.25 per square foot but becomes essential if you plan to heat your garage or use it as workspace. We typically see total insulation costs of $1-5 per square foot when you include installation.
Garage doors range from $750-1,650 depending on material and features. Standard steel doors start around $750, while insulated or custom options can reach $1,650+. Automatic openers add another $300-800.
Windows cost $100-700 each depending on size and quality. The number and placement of windows significantly impacts both your cost and how functional your garage becomes for projects and storage.
Labor & Regional Rate Check
Labor costs vary dramatically across our service areas, and understanding these differences helps you budget accurately. Carpenter rates run $40-70 per hour, with skilled carpenters commanding premium rates, especially in urban markets.
Electrician rates range from $42-105 per hour, and electrical work requires licensed professionals—no shortcuts here.
In our experience across different markets, Utah’s urban areas command premium rates due to high demand and cost of living. Idaho offers moderate rates with good contractor availability. Iowa provides competitive pricing with skilled trades readily available, while Nebraska shows similar patterns to Iowa with some regional variations.
Subcontractor coordination makes a huge difference in controlling costs. When we manage multiple trades efficiently—getting the electrician in right after framing, coordinating the concrete pour with site prep—we minimize delays and keep your project on budget.
Hidden & Surprise Expenses
Every garage project has potential surprise costs, and I’ve seen too many homeowners get blindsided by expenses they never anticipated. Soil testing and challenging site conditions can add $1,000-5,000 to foundation costs. Poor drainage or rocky soil doesn’t reveal itself until excavation begins.
Grading and drainage work often gets overlooked in initial estimates but can add $500-2,500 to your project. Proper site grading prevents water issues that could damage your new garage, making this a necessary investment rather than an optional upgrade.
Driveway extensions frequently surprise homeowners who focused only on the garage structure. Connecting your new garage to existing driveways costs $3-15 per square foot for asphalt or $4-18 per square foot for concrete.
Build Methods & Savings Strategies
When it comes to figuring out how much to build a detached garage, your construction method makes a huge difference in both cost and timeline. After building thousands of structures across our four-state region, we’ve seen every approach work well for the right situation.
Prefab garages offer the sweet spot between cost and convenience. These structures arrive mostly complete and can be installed in just 1-2 days. The labor is included in that price, which eliminates the headache of coordinating multiple contractors. We’ve found this option works great for homeowners who want quality construction without the extended timeline.
Metal kit garages provide the most budget-friendly entry point. The catch? The price doesn’t include foundation work or assembly, so you’ll need to factor in those additional costs. Customization options are pretty limited with kits, but if you need basic storage space and want to keep costs down, they’re hard to beat.
Custom stick-built construction commands premium pricing but gives you unlimited flexibility. This approach makes sense when you need specific features, want to match your home’s architecture perfectly, or plan to use the space for more than just parking cars. We help homeowners design custom garages that truly fit their property and lifestyle.
Your garage should improve your home’s curb appeal, not detract from it. We work with homeowners to choose materials and designs that complement existing architecture while staying within budget. And if you live in a neighborhood with an HOA, we help steer those requirements early in the planning process to avoid costly surprises later.
Prefab vs Kit vs Custom: Which “How Much to Build a Detached Garage” Path Fits You?
Speed matters for many homeowners. Prefab garages can be installed in 1-2 days once the foundation is ready. Custom builds take 4 weeks from start to finish. Metal kits fall somewhere in between at 1-2 weeks, assuming you have contractors lined up for assembly.
Customization options vary dramatically between approaches. Custom builds offer unlimited possibilities—we can incorporate workshops, lofts, or specialty storage features. Prefab structures allow moderate customization in things like siding, roofing, and window placement. Kits provide minimal flexibility, usually just in color and basic size options.
Warranty coverage gives you peace of mind regardless of which path you choose. We stand behind our work with warranties up to 50 years on craftsmanship. That coverage applies whether you choose prefab, custom construction, or even if we help with kit assembly.
Budget Hacks That Don’t Cut Quality
Here’s what we’ve learned about saving money without compromising the final result. DIY site preparation can save you $500-$1,500 if you’re willing to handle basic clearing and grading yourself. Just make sure you understand where utility lines run before you start digging.
Standardizing dimensions reduces both material waste and labor time. We keep common sizes in stock, which means better pricing for you. Custom dimensions often require premium pricing because everything has to be cut to order.
DIY painting can save $1-$3.50 per square foot if you’re handy with a brush. Interior painting is especially straightforward, and exterior work can be tackled over a weekend or two.
Getting multiple quotes helps ensure competitive pricing, but don’t just look at the bottom line. Compare materials, warranties, and timelines too. The cheapest bid often becomes the most expensive when you factor in quality issues down the road.
Seasonal timing can impact your costs significantly. Fall and winter construction often offers better pricing due to reduced demand. We’re usually less busy during these months and can sometimes offer discounts to keep our crews working.
More info about Detached Garage Designs shows various options that balance cost and functionality across different budget ranges.
Boosting ROI & Home Value
A well-built detached garage typically adds $12,000-$36,000 to your home’s value. The key is building something that future buyers will see as an asset, not just extra square footage.
Energy efficiency appeals to modern buyers and reduces operating costs if you plan to heat or cool the space. Proper insulation and energy-efficient features don’t cost much upfront but pay dividends in comfort and resale value.
Future ADU conversion potential can significantly boost long-term value. We often design garages with higher ceilings, extra electrical capacity, and plumbing rough-ins that make future conversion to living space much easier and less expensive.
Quality materials reduce maintenance costs and maintain curb appeal over time. Investing in durable siding, quality roofing, and proper foundation work means your garage will look good and function well for decades. That long-term thinking shows when it comes time to sell your home.
Frequently Asked Questions about Detached Garage Costs
How much value does a detached garage add to my home?
Here’s the good news: a well-built detached garage typically adds $12,000-36,000 to your home’s value. After building garages across Utah, Idaho, Iowa, and Nebraska for over 25 years, we consistently see appraisal bumps that return 60-80% of the construction cost.
The magic happens when you get the details right. Quality construction that matches your home’s style makes the biggest difference in appraisal value. We’ve seen identical garage sizes receive vastly different valuations based on materials and craftsmanship alone.
Size matters for modern buyers. Most appraisers look for garages that can actually fit today’s vehicles—meaning at least 24×24 feet for a true two-car garage. Those cramped 20×20 structures from decades past don’t command the same premium.
Proper permits and code compliance protect your investment. We’ve worked with homeowners who finded unpermitted garage additions during sale negotiations, leading to expensive corrections or reduced offers.
The exterior materials you choose also impact value. Garages that complement your home’s siding, roofing, and architectural style integrate seamlessly and feel like original construction rather than afterthoughts.
Is it cheaper to build a detached garage myself or hire a pro?
DIY construction can save $3,000-15,000, but I’ve seen enough weekend warrior projects gone wrong to know it’s not always the bargain it appears to be.
The savings look tempting on paper. You eliminate labor costs, which typically run 50-60% of the total project budget. For a $20,000 garage, that’s potentially $10,000-12,000 in your pocket.
But here’s where reality bites: building codes don’t care if you’re a professional or not. We’ve helped homeowners fix DIY electrical work that violated local codes, costing more to correct than hiring an electrician originally would have.
Most areas require licensed contractors for electrical and structural work anyway. You might save on framing and siding, but you’ll still need professionals for foundation, electrical, and often roofing work.
Time investment often surprises DIY builders. Professional crews complete garage projects in 4-8 weeks. DIY builds frequently stretch 3-6 months, especially when life gets in the way.
Tool and equipment costs add up quickly. Concrete mixers, framing nailers, scaffolding, and other specialized equipment can cost $2,000-5,000 to rent or buy.
For most homeowners, hiring professionals provides better value when you factor in time, warranty coverage, and peace of mind. We stand behind our work with warranties up to 50 years—something no DIY project can match.
What permits and inspections are required?
Building permits and inspections protect both you and future buyers, but requirements vary significantly by location. Here’s what we typically encounter across our markets:
Building permits cost $200-1,500 depending on garage size and local requirements. Most areas require permits for structures over 120-200 square feet, though some municipalities have lower thresholds.
Electrical permits run $50-500 when running power to your garage. This isn’t optional—unpermitted electrical work creates serious safety and insurance issues.
Plumbing permits cost $50-500 if you’re adding water lines for a utility sink or planning future bathroom facilities.
Setback requirements typically mandate 5-10 feet between your garage and property lines. Some HOAs have stricter requirements, so we always check local rules before finalizing placement.
The inspection schedule follows a predictable pattern. Foundation inspections happen before concrete pours, framing inspections occur before closing up walls, electrical inspections take place before covering wiring, and final inspections wrap up before you can use the structure.
Thinking Beyond Price: Wright’s Shed Co. on How Much to Build a Detached Garage
Building a detached garage is a significant investment that pays dividends for years to come. How much to build a detached garage typically ranges from $4,800 to $40,000+, but the real value goes far beyond the initial cost—you’re adding functionality, storage, and substantial equity to your property.
After helping thousands of homeowners across Utah, Idaho, Iowa, and Nebraska since 1997, we’ve learned that the most successful garage projects start with realistic expectations and proper planning. The national average of $20,400 gives you a solid baseline, but your actual investment depends on size, materials, site conditions, and local labor rates.
The homeowners who are happiest with their garage projects understand that quality construction isn’t optional—it’s an investment. Cutting corners on foundation work, framing, or materials often leads to expensive problems down the road. We’ve seen too many “bargain” garages that needed major repairs within a few years.
Hidden costs catch many homeowners off guard, so budget an extra 15-25% beyond your base construction estimate. Site preparation, permits, utility hookups, and unexpected soil conditions can quickly add thousands to your project. Weather delays and material price fluctuations are part of the reality too.
Timeline matters more than most people realize. A rushed project often becomes an expensive project. Proper planning, quality materials, and experienced crews create better results than trying to cut every corner to save a few dollars.
At Wright’s Shed Co., we’ve built our reputation on delivering structures that last. Our upgraded features come standard, not as expensive add-ons, and we back our work with warranties up to 50 years on craftsmanship. That’s the kind of confidence that comes from nearly three decades of experience and thousands of satisfied customers.
Your garage should serve your family for generations, not just a few years. Whether you’re planning a simple one-car structure or a custom four-car garage with workshop space, the key is working with professionals who understand your local building requirements and weather conditions.
Ready to turn your garage dreams into reality? More info about our detached garage solutions shows our complete range of designs and options. We’re here to help you make the smartest decision for your property, your budget, and your family’s needs.