Pole Barn Cost Calculator
Exterior complete, no interior
Estimated Total Cost
$21,600 – $42,000
$18.00 – $35.00 per sq ft (1,200 sqft)
Kit Only
$14,400 – $30,000
Installed Shell
$21,600 – $42,000
Turnkey
$33,600 – $66,000
Add-Ons
—
Installed Shell: Exterior complete with siding, roof, and doors. No interior finish — you can DIY insulation, electrical, and interior walls.
Metal Construction: More durable and fire-resistant. Lower maintenance but costs 10–20% more than wood. 30+ year lifespan with proper maintenance.
Not included: Site preparation, permits ($200–$2,000), foundation/grading ($1–$3/sqft), utility connections, local code requirements.
Disclaimer: Estimates are for budgeting purposes only. Actual costs vary by location, contractor, material availability, and project complexity. Always get professional quotes for exact pricing.
Pole Barn Cost by Size
| Size | Sq Ft | Kit Only | Installed Shell | Turnkey |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 24×24 | 576 | $7K – $14K | $10K – $20K | $16K – $32K |
| 30×40 | 1,200 | $14K – $30K | $22K – $42K | $34K – $66K |
| 40×60 | 2,400 | $29K – $60K | $43K – $84K | $67K – $132K |
| 50×80 | 4,000 | $48K – $100K | $72K – $140K | $112K – $220K |
| 60×100 | 6,000 | $72K – $150K | $108K – $210K | $168K – $330K |
* Based on metal construction. Wood frame is 10–20% less. Add-ons (concrete, electrical, doors) not included.
Common Add-On Costs
| Add-On | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Concrete Slab | $6 – $12/sqft | 4" thick with wire mesh |
| Insulation | $1.50 – $3/sqft | Walls and ceiling |
| Basic Electrical | $2 – $5/sqft | Lights, outlets, panel |
| Overhead Door (12×10) | $1,200 – $2,500 each | Insulated with opener |
| Walk-In Door | $300 – $800 each | Steel entry door installed |
How We Calculate
Our pole barn calculator estimates cost based on size, construction type, build level, and add-ons. Total = (sqft × build level cost) + selected features.
Build levels: Kit Only (materials for DIY), Installed Shell (exterior complete), and Turnkey (fully finished interior). Each level includes progressively more labor and materials.
Construction Types
Wood Frame — Traditional post-frame construction. Most affordable but requires more maintenance. Metal/Steel — Steel frame with metal siding. More durable, fire-resistant, and lower maintenance. Hybrid — Wood frame with metal siding. Balances cost and durability.
Common Add-Ons
Concrete slab: $6–$12/sqft. Insulation: $1.50–$3/sqft. Basic electrical: $2–$5/sqft. Overhead door (12×10): $1,200–$2,500 each. Windows: $200–$500 each.
Additional Costs
Site prep/grading: $1–$3/sqft. Permits: $200–$2,000. Utility connections: $500–$3,000. Delivery (for kits): varies by distance.
Data Sources
Pricing from HomeGuide, Angi, Hansen Pole Buildings, and regional pole barn contractors (February 2026).
Last updated: 2026-02-05
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a pole barn cost per square foot? +
Pole barns cost $15–$60 per square foot depending on build level. Kit only (materials): $10–$25/sqft. Installed shell: $15–$35/sqft. Turnkey (finished): $25–$55/sqft. Metal construction costs 10–20% more than wood.
How much does a 30×40 pole barn cost? +
A 30×40 pole barn (1,200 sqft) costs $18,000–$42,000 for an installed shell or $30,000–$66,000 turnkey. Kit only runs $12,000–$30,000. Add $7,000–$14,000 for a concrete slab floor.
How much does a 40×60 pole barn cost? +
A 40×60 pole barn (2,400 sqft) costs $36,000–$84,000 for an installed shell or $60,000–$132,000 turnkey. This popular size is ideal for workshops, equipment storage, or hobby farms.
What is the difference between a pole barn kit and installed? +
A pole barn kit is materials only ($10–$25/sqft) — you arrange assembly. Installed shell ($15–$35/sqft) includes professional construction of the exterior. Turnkey ($25–$55/sqft) includes interior finish, electrical, and concrete floor.
Is a pole barn cheaper than a traditional barn? +
Yes — pole barns cost 30–50% less than traditional barns. They use fewer materials (no continuous foundation), require less labor, and build faster. A pole barn takes 1–3 weeks vs 2–6 months for traditional construction.
How long does a pole barn last? +
A well-built pole barn lasts 40–60+ years with proper maintenance. Metal siding and roofing can last 30+ years. Treated wood posts last 20–40 years. Regular maintenance (rust prevention, repainting) extends lifespan.
Do I need a permit for a pole barn? +
Most areas require permits for pole barns over 200 sqft or any structure with electrical/plumbing. Permit costs range $200–$2,000. Check local zoning for setback requirements and maximum building size.
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