Construction Costs in Racine, WI 2026

Estimate renovation and building costs in Racine. Local labor rates average $25.77/hr with a material cost index of 86.

$25.77

Avg Labor Rate/hr

86

Material Cost Index

$189,085

Avg Home Price

91

Cost of Living Index

Racine Overview

Population

78,860

Climate Zone

Cold (Zone 6)

Seismic Risk

low

Median Household Income

$41,603

Racine Remodeling Cost Estimator

Leave blank for typical kitchen remodel size

Cost Breakdown

Materials$9,675
Labor$7,087
Permits (4%)$670

Estimated Total Cost

$17,432

Mid-range Kitchen Remodel150 sq ft in Racine

Materials

$9,675

56% of total

Labor

$7,087

41% of total

Permits

$670

~$693 avg

13% Below National Average

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

View Wisconsin Statewide Costs

Compare Racine costs with the Wisconsin state average and other cities.

Project Cost Comparison: Racine vs National Average

Project TypeRacine AverageNational AverageDifference
Kitchen Remodel$30,000$35,000-14%
Bathroom Remodel$15,500$18,000-14%
Roof Replacement$13,000$15,000-13%
Whole House Paint$3,300$3,800-13%
Flooring Install$6,000$7,000-14%
Deck Build$10,500$12,000-12%

Material Prices in Racine

Concrete

$120 /cubic yard

At the estimated Wisconsin average of $120/yd³

Lumber

$4.90 /board foot

$0.17 above the estimated Wisconsin average of $4.73/BF

Popular Projects in Racine

❄️

#1 HVAC Upgrade

Among the most requested projects by Racine homeowners

🏠

#2 Roof Replacement

Among the most requested projects by Racine homeowners

🪟

#3 Window Replacement

Among the most requested projects by Racine homeowners

Construction Cost Overview for Racine, WI

Construction and renovation costs in Racine, WI reflect the city's cost of living index of 91 and a material cost index of 86 (where 100 represents the national baseline). With an average construction labor rate of $25.77 per hour and a median home price of $189,085, homeowners in Racine should plan their renovation budgets carefully using local pricing data.

Racine sits in IECC Climate Zone 6 (Cold), 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 $41,603 in Racine means that a mid-range kitchen remodel at $30,000 represents approximately 72% of annual household income.

Building permits in Racine average $693, varying by project scope and local building department requirements. Major renovations involving structural, electrical, or plumbing work require permits in virtually all Wisconsin jurisdictions. Scheduling projects during off-peak seasons can save 5-15% on labor costs as contractors have greater availability.

Other Cities in Wisconsin

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a kitchen remodel cost in Racine, WI?
A mid-range kitchen remodel in Racine, WI costs approximately $30,000 on average. Budget renovations start around $21,000, while premium remodels with custom cabinetry and high-end appliances can reach $45,000 or more. Labor rates in Racine average $25.77/hour for general construction work.
What is the average construction labor rate in Racine?
Construction labor in Racine, WI averages $25.77 per hour. This is 13% 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 Racine?
Most significant renovations in Racine, WI require building permits. Permit costs average around $693 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 Racine's cost of living affect construction costs?
Racine has a cost of living index of 91 (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 Racine is 86, reflecting local supply chain dynamics and demand levels.
What are the most popular home improvement projects in Racine?
The most popular construction and renovation projects in Racine, WI include HVAC Upgrade, Roof Replacement, Window Replacement. Kitchen remodels offer the highest ROI in Racine at approximately 60-75% of cost recovery upon resale. Bathroom renovations and roof replacements are also top priorities for Racine homeowners looking to increase property value.

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