Construction Costs in Lawrence, KS 2026

Estimate renovation and building costs in Lawrence. Local labor rates average $25.21/hr with a material cost index of 84.

$25.21

Avg Labor Rate/hr

84

Material Cost Index

$165,269

Avg Home Price

88

Cost of Living Index

Lawrence Overview

Population

94,934

Climate Zone

Mixed-Humid / Mixed-Dry (Zone 4)

Seismic Risk

low

Median Household Income

$43,479

Lawrence Remodeling Cost Estimator

Leave blank for typical kitchen remodel size

Cost Breakdown

Materials$9,450
Labor$6,933
Permits (4%)$655

Estimated Total Cost

$17,038

Mid-range Kitchen Remodel150 sq ft in Lawrence

Materials

$9,450

55% of total

Labor

$6,933

41% of total

Permits

$655

~$992 avg

15% Below National Average

The same kitchen remodel at the national average would cost approximately $20,085. Lawrence offers competitive construction pricing compared to the national average.

View Kansas Statewide Costs

Compare Lawrence costs with the Kansas state average and other cities.

Project Cost Comparison: Lawrence vs National Average

Project TypeLawrence AverageNational AverageDifference
Kitchen Remodel$29,500$35,000-16%
Bathroom Remodel$15,000$18,000-17%
Roof Replacement$12,500$15,000-17%
Whole House Paint$3,200$3,800-16%
Flooring Install$6,000$7,000-14%
Deck Build$10,000$12,000-17%

Material Prices in Lawrence

Concrete

$120 /cubic yard

$2 above the estimated Kansas average of $118/yd³

Lumber

$4.53 /board foot

$0.09 below the estimated Kansas average of $4.62/BF

Popular Projects in Lawrence

🏡

#1 Fence Installation

Among the most requested projects by Lawrence homeowners

❄️

#2 HVAC Upgrade

Among the most requested projects by Lawrence homeowners

🪵

#3 Deck Build

Among the most requested projects by Lawrence homeowners

Construction Cost Overview for Lawrence, KS

Construction and renovation costs in Lawrence, KS reflect the city's cost of living index of 88 and a material cost index of 84 (where 100 represents the national baseline). With an average construction labor rate of $25.21 per hour and a median home price of $165,269, homeowners in Lawrence should plan their renovation budgets carefully using local pricing data.

Lawrence sits in IECC Climate Zone 4 (Mixed-Humid / Mixed-Dry), which influences insulation requirements, HVAC sizing, and overall material choices for both new construction and remodeling projects. Low seismic risk — standard building codes apply. The median household income of $43,479 in Lawrence means that a mid-range kitchen remodel at $29,500 represents approximately 68% of annual household income.

Building permits in Lawrence average $992, varying by project scope and local building department requirements. Major renovations involving structural, electrical, or plumbing work require permits in virtually all Kansas jurisdictions. Scheduling projects during off-peak seasons can save 5-15% on labor costs as contractors have greater availability.

Other Cities in Kansas

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a kitchen remodel cost in Lawrence, KS?
A mid-range kitchen remodel in Lawrence, KS costs approximately $29,500 on average. Budget renovations start around $20,650, while premium remodels with custom cabinetry and high-end appliances can reach $44,250 or more. Labor rates in Lawrence average $25.21/hour for general construction work.
What is the average construction labor rate in Lawrence?
Construction labor in Lawrence, KS averages $25.21 per hour. This is 15% below the national average. Specialized trades like licensed electricians and master plumbers typically charge 25-45% more than general construction labor rates.
Do I need a building permit for home renovations in Lawrence?
Most significant renovations in Lawrence, KS require building permits. Permit costs average around $992 depending on project scope. Projects involving structural changes, electrical rewiring, plumbing modifications, or additions almost always require permits. Cosmetic updates like interior painting, replacing fixtures, or installing new flooring typically do not.
How does Lawrence's cost of living affect construction costs?
Lawrence has a cost of living index of 88 (national average = 100), which directly impacts construction costs. Higher cost of living means higher labor rates, material delivery costs, and permit fees. The material cost index in Lawrence is 84, reflecting local supply chain dynamics and demand levels.
What are the most popular home improvement projects in Lawrence?
The most popular construction and renovation projects in Lawrence, KS include Fence Installation, HVAC Upgrade, Deck Build. Kitchen remodels offer the highest ROI in Lawrence at approximately 60-75% of cost recovery upon resale. Bathroom renovations and roof replacements are also top priorities for Lawrence homeowners looking to increase property value.

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