Calculator
Hardwood Flooring Cost Calculator
Estimate hardwood flooring cost by area, species and installation method.
Model reviewed August 2026
Select a state to re-price the estimate with local labor and material costs.
Estimated total cost
$9,546 – $13,560
- Cost per square foot
- $14
- Material (with waste)
- $6,048
- Installation labor
- $3,600
- Old floor removal
- $1,200
- Order quantity
- 864 sq ft
Estimates only. Local pricing, site conditions and code requirements change the real number.
Price this job in your state
This page uses the national average. Pick your state for the same tool re-priced with local labor, material and permit-fee indexes.
The formula
Cost = area x (1 + waste) x material rate + area x labor rate + removal
Add 7–10% waste for straight-lay installs and up to 15% for diagonal or herringbone patterns.
Worked example
Installing 800 sq ft of engineered oak runs about $7,800 to $11,200 including removal of old carpet.
Frequently asked questions
How much does hardwood flooring cost installed?
Expect $10 to $18 per square foot installed in 2026 for oak, and $18 to $28 for exotic species or intricate patterns.
Is engineered hardwood cheaper?
Engineered runs slightly less per square foot and installs faster over concrete slabs. It can only be refinished once or twice, versus several times for solid wood.
Sources
Sources & verification
- NWFA wood flooring installation guidelines
- TCNA tile installation handbook standards
- International Code Council (IRC/IBC)
Model vintage August 2026. The links above are the issuing agencies' own pages — we publish them so you can confirm the current rule yourself, not as evidence that each fact on this page was re-checked with them today. Cost figures are modeled estimates based on national baselines adjusted for local labor and material pricing, not quotes. Permit rules change; confirm with the building department before starting work.
