Imagine walking into your home and seeing outdated, scuffed flooring that has seen better days. Now, picture replacing it with sleek hardwood or modern vinyl plank flooring, instantly transforming your space into a luxurious haven. Flooring can redefine the look and feel of your entire home, making it one of the most impactful home improvement projects you can undertake. But there’s one pressing question: how much does it cost to floor a whole house?
The cost of flooring an entire house can vary widely, from $5,000 to $48,000, depending on the size of your home, the materials you choose, and any additional work required. For a typical 1,500–2,000-square-foot house, these numbers become even more relevant. Homeowners often find themselves choosing between vinyl flooring, which is affordable and practical, and hardwood flooring, which offers timeless appeal and long-term value.
Average Costs Breakdown
When it comes to flooring a house, size matters. The total cost of flooring a typical 1,500–2,000-square-foot home often falls between $10,000 and $36,000, depending on the materials and labor costs. To help you understand the pricing better, let’s break it down:
Flooring Type Material Cost (per sq ft)Installation Cost (per sq ft)Total Installed Cost (per sq ft)
Vinyl Plank $2–$10 $2–$8 $5–$20
Hardwood $4–$25 $8–$23 $8–$48
Factors Affecting Costs
- Material Choice: Vinyl plank flooring is an affordable option, while hardwood flooring tends to be more expensive due to its Premium appeal and durability.
- Installation Costs: Labor costs can significantly impact your total expenses. Vinyl is often more DIY-friendly, whereas hardwood requires professional installation.
- House Size: Naturally, the larger your home, the more materials and labor you’ll need, increasing your overall costs.
- Regional Variations: Prices can vary by region. In 2025, inflation and regional demand have led to noticeable differences in flooring costs nationwide.
Estimating Costs for Your Home
Here’s a quick formula to calculate flooring costs for your home:
Total Cost = Home Size (sq ft) × Installed Cost (per sq ft)
For example, if you’re installing vinyl flooring in a 1,500 sq ft home at $10 per square foot (average), your total cost would be:
1,500 sq ft × $10 = $15,000
Keep in mind that this is a base estimate, and additional costs—such as removing old flooring or subfloor repairs—can add up. We’ll dive into hidden costs later in the article.
Vinyl Flooring: Pricing and Value
Vinyl plank flooring, also known as luxury vinyl plank (LVP), has become the go-to choice for budget-conscious homeowners. Its affordability, durability, and versatility make it an excellent option for whole-house flooring.
Vinyl Plank Pricing
Vinyl plank pricing typically ranges from $2 to $10 per square foot for materials alone. Installed costs range from $5 to $20 per square foot, depending on the quality and type of vinyl.
Types of Vinyl Flooring:
- Standard Vinyl Plank: $2–$5 per sq ft. Best for basic installations on a budget.
- Waterproof Vinyl Plank: $4–$7 per sq ft. Great for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.
- Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP): $6–$10 per sq ft. Offers a Premium look with realistic wood or stone finishes.
Pros of Vinyl Flooring
- Water Resistance: Perfect for high-moisture areas like kitchens and basements.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal upkeep and is easy to clean.
- Affordability: Costs significantly less than hardwood while offering a similar aesthetic.
- Quick Installation: DIY-friendly, reducing labor costs.
Cons of Vinyl Flooring
- Resale Value: Doesn’t add as much value to your home compared to hardwood.
- Durability: While long-lasting, it may not match the lifespan of hardwood.
Whole-House Cost Estimate
For a 2,000 sq ft home, vinyl flooring installation typically costs between $15,000 and $30,000, depending on the type of vinyl and labor involved. This makes it a highly affordable option for homeowners looking to upgrade their entire house on a budget.
Hardwood Flooring: A Premium Investment
If you’re looking for a flooring option that exudes timeless elegance and boosts your home’s resale value, hardwood flooring is an excellent choice. However, it comes with a heftier price tag.
Hardwood Flooring Pricing
Hardwood flooring costs vary widely, with material prices ranging from $4 to $25 per square foot. Installation costs add another $8 to $23 per square foot, bringing the total installed cost to $8 to $48 per square foot.
Types of Hardwood Flooring:
- Solid Hardwood: $8–$15 per sq ft. Luxurious and long-lasting, but sensitive to moisture.
- Engineered Hardwood: $6–$10 per sq ft. More affordable and moisture-resistant.
Pros of Hardwood Flooring
- Longevity: Can last for 50+ years with proper care and refinishing.
- Resale Value: Increases home value by 3–5%, with a 70–100% return on investment.
- Timeless Appeal: Adds a touch of luxury to any home.
Cons of Hardwood Flooring
- Cost: Significantly more expensive upfront than vinyl.
- Maintenance: Requires periodic refinishing to maintain its appearance.
- Moisture Sensitivity: Not ideal for areas prone to water exposure.
Whole-House Cost Estimate
For a 1,500 sq ft home, hardwood flooring installation typically costs $10,000 to $36,400, making it a Premium investment for homeowners who prioritize long-term value.
Vinyl vs. Hardwood: Head-to-Head Comparison
Deciding between vinyl and hardwood can be challenging. Here’s a side-by-side comparison to help you make the best choice for your home:
Factor Vinyl Advantage Hardwood Advantage Cost Impact
Upfront Cost Lower ($5–$20/sq ft) Higher ($8–$48/sq ft) Vinyl saves 40–60%
Durability : Waterproof, scratch-resistant , Refinishable, lasts 50+ years , Hardwood long-term value
Home Value Functional upgrade Boosts resale 3–5% Varies by market
Installation is DIY-friendly and quick. Requires professional installation. Vinyl reduces labor costs
Which Is Right for You?
- Choose Vinyl if you’re on a budget or need water-resistant flooring for high-moisture areas.
- Choose Hardwood if you’re looking for a long-term investment that adds luxury and value to your home.
Hidden Costs and Budgeting Tips
Flooring projects often come with unexpected expenses. Here are some hidden costs to watch out for:
Hidden Costs
- Old Flooring Removal: $0.70–$5 per sq ft.
- Subfloor Repairs: Can add $2–$7 per sq ft.
- Stairs and Trim: Additional charges for stairs or custom trim work.
- Furniture Moving: Costs for moving and replacing furniture during installation.
Budgeting Tips
- Get Multiple Quotes: Request at least three estimates from trusted contractors.
- Measure Carefully: Add 10% to your measurements to account for waste.
- Shop Sales: Look for discounts and promotions on flooring materials.
- DIY Prep Work: Remove old flooring and prep the area yourself to save on labor costs.
On average, hidden costs can add 20–30% to your total project expenses, so it’s essential to budget accordingly.
