Shed Cost Calculator

Shed costs range from $8–$100 per square foot depending on type. Prefab metal sheds cost $8–$25/sqft, prefab wood $15–$40/sqft, custom-built wood $30–$80/sqft, and barn-style $40–$100/sqft. A typical 10x12 workshop (120 sqft) costs $1,800–$4,800 for prefab wood or $3,600–$9,600 for custom-built. Add $500–$2,000 for a concrete foundation, $500–$1,500 for electrical, and $200–$600 for shelving.

Most cities require a building permit for sheds over 120–200 sqft (varies by jurisdiction). Permit costs: $50–$300. Common requirements: setback from property lines (typically 3–5 feet), maximum height (often 12–15 feet), maximum size without permit (100–200 sqft), and foundation specifications. HOAs may have additional restrictions on shed placement, style, and materials. Check your local building department before ordering or building.

Prefab metal sheds are the cheapest at $8–$25 per square foot. An 8x10 metal shed costs $640–$2,000. Popular budget options: Arrow 8x6 ($300–$500), Rubbermaid 7x7 ($700–$1,000), and Lifetime 8x10 ($1,200–$1,800 resin). DIY wood sheds from plans cost $15–$30/sqft for materials. The cheapest new storage: resin/plastic sheds ($200–$600 for small sizes). Cheapest overall: used sheds on Craigslist/Facebook ($200–$1,500).

Prefab metal shed assembly: 4–8 hours (2 people). Prefab wood shed delivery: same-day (arrives pre-built on a trailer). DIY wood shed from kit: 1–2 days (2 people). Custom-built shed by contractor: 3–7 days depending on size and complexity. Foundation prep adds 1–2 days. Electrical wiring adds 1 day. Permit approval takes 1–4 weeks before construction begins.

Yes, all sheds need a level base. Options from cheapest to best: gravel pad ($200–$500, adequate for small sheds), concrete blocks ($100–$300, good for prefab), treated wood skids ($200–$400, movable), and concrete slab ($500–$2,000, best for permanent and large sheds). Concrete slab is required for sheds over 200 sqft in most codes. Without proper foundation, shed floor warps, doors stick, and moisture rots the bottom.

Prefab if: budget is under $5,000, you need it quickly, standard sizes work (8x8 to 12x16), and aesthetics aren't critical. Custom-built if: you need a specific size, want it to match your home's style, plan to use it as a workshop or office, or need a size over 200 sqft. Prefab wood sheds cost $15–$40/sqft; custom-built costs $30–$80/sqft. Custom adds 50–100% in cost but offers unlimited design flexibility.

Running electricity to a shed costs $500–$1,500 depending on distance from the main panel. Includes: 20-amp circuit from house panel ($200–$500), underground conduit and wire ($3–$5/lf), sub-panel in shed ($200–$400), outlets and lighting ($200–$400). Trenching for underground wire is the biggest cost variable. Distance over 100 feet may require thicker wire gauge. Permit required in most jurisdictions. Must be done by licensed electrician.

Common sizes and uses: 6x8 (48 sqft) — lawn mower and basic tools. 8x8 (64 sqft) — small storage, bikes and seasonal items. 8x10 (80 sqft) — garden shed, moderate storage. 10x12 (120 sqft) — workshop or hobby space. 10x16 (160 sqft) — large workshop with workbench. 12x20 (240 sqft) — she-shed, office, or multi-purpose. Rule of thumb: estimate what you need, then go one size larger. Shelving doubles usable storage space.