Cost Estimators · Flooring
Hardwood Flooring Cost Per Sq Ft Calculator
Enter your room area and instantly estimate hardwood flooring cost — solid or engineered, supply and install.
Hardwood flooring adds warmth and lasting value to a home — but the gap between solid hardwood, engineered hardwood, and a basic LVP that mimics wood is $4–$10 per sq ft in installed cost. Knowing what each option genuinely costs helps you budget accurately and have an informed conversation with flooring suppliers and contractors.
Enter an area above to see your estimate
Using national average: $6–$15/sq ft
Estimates are based on national averages and are for planning purposes only. Actual costs vary by location, contractor, and material choice.
Example: 700 sq ft hardwood floor
Area
700
sq ft
Low Estimate
$4,200
@ $6/sq ft
High Estimate
$10,500
@ $15/sq ft
Based on national average rates of $6–$15/sq ft. Actual costs will vary by location and contractor.
How much does hardwood flooring cost per square foot?
Engineered hardwood flooring costs $6–$12 per sq ft installed — the most popular mid-range choice that works over radiant heat and in slightly damp environments. Solid hardwood averages $8–$15 per sq ft installed. Premium species (Brazilian cherry, white oak, walnut) can reach $15–$25 per sq ft installed. Always order 10% extra material for cuts and future repairs. For a comparison across all flooring types, see our flooring cost per sq ft calculator.
Cost by project size
| Project size | Low estimate | High estimate |
|---|---|---|
| 200 sq ft (small room) | $1,200 | $3,000 |
| 400 sq ft (living room) | $2,400 | $6,000 |
| 700 sq ft (main floor) | $4,200 | $10,500 |
| 1,000 sq ft | $6,000 | $15,000 |
| 1,500 sq ft (full level) | $9,000 | $22,500 |
Approximate 2026 US national averages at $6–$15/sq ft installed. Actual costs vary by location, contractor, and project complexity.
What affects flooring cost per square foot?
Solid vs engineered hardwood
Solid hardwood is 3/4 inch thick and can be sanded and refinished 5–7 times over its life — lasting 50–100 years. Engineered hardwood has a thin real-wood veneer over plywood and can be refinished 1–3 times. Engineered is more stable in humidity fluctuations and works over radiant heat.
Wood species
Oak is the most affordable domestic hardwood at $6–$10/sq ft installed. Maple and hickory are slightly more. Premium and exotic species (Brazilian cherry, teak, walnut) cost $10–$25+/sq ft installed and have unique grain and colour characteristics.
Plank width & pattern
Narrow 2.25 inch strips are standard and cost less to install. Wide-plank boards (5+ inches) are more expensive per sq ft due to material cost and the precision required to prevent gapping. Herringbone and parquet patterns add $3–$5/sq ft in labour.
Subfloor condition
The subfloor must be flat (within 3/16 inch over 10 feet) and structurally sound. Fixing an uneven subfloor adds $1–$3/sq ft before installation begins. Solid hardwood cannot be installed over concrete — engineered hardwood can, which is why it is preferred for basements and slabs.
Pre-finished vs site-finished
Pre-finished hardwood is sanded and finished at the factory — faster to install and immediately usable. Site-finished wood is sanded, stained, and sealed on-site — adding $2–$4/sq ft in labour but allowing custom stain colours and seamless room transitions.
Old flooring removal
Removing existing carpet adds $0.50–$1/sq ft. Hardwood removal runs $1–$2/sq ft. Tile removal is the most labour-intensive at $2–$4/sq ft. Always confirm whether the quote includes or excludes removal.
Frequently asked questions
How much does hardwood flooring cost per square foot installed?
Engineered hardwood costs $6–$12/sq ft installed. Solid hardwood runs $8–$15/sq ft. Premium species and wide-plank options reach $15–$25/sq ft. For a 700 sq ft main floor, expect $4,200–$10,500 for a mid-range engineered hardwood installation.
Is engineered hardwood better than solid hardwood?
Engineered hardwood is more stable in humid or variable environments and can be installed over radiant heat and concrete slabs — things solid hardwood cannot do. Solid hardwood can be refinished more times and lasts longer. In dry, stable environments on above-grade subfloors, solid hardwood is the premium long-term choice.
How long does hardwood flooring last?
Solid hardwood floors last 50–100+ years if properly maintained and periodically refinished. Engineered hardwood lasts 25–50 years depending on the veneer thickness and wear layer. Both far outlast laminate (10–25 years) and LVP (15–25 years).
Can hardwood flooring be installed over concrete?
Solid hardwood cannot be installed directly on concrete — moisture from the slab causes swelling and cupping. Engineered hardwood can be glued directly to concrete above grade. In basements or below-grade areas, even engineered hardwood is risky and LVP is the recommended choice.
How much does it cost to refinish hardwood floors?
Refinishing existing hardwood floors costs $3–$5 per sq ft — sanding, staining, and resealing. This is significantly cheaper than new installation and restores the floor to like-new condition. Floors can typically be refinished if there is at least 3/32 inch of wood above the tongue.