Construction Costs in Syracuse, NY 2026

Estimate renovation and building costs in Syracuse. Local labor rates average $46.44/hr with a material cost index of 132.

$46.44

Avg Labor Rate/hr

132

Material Cost Index

$490,755

Avg Home Price

150

Cost of Living Index

Syracuse Overview

Population

148,620

Climate Zone

Cool-Humid (Zone 5)

Seismic Risk

low

Median Household Income

$78,260

Syracuse Remodeling Cost Estimator

Leave blank for typical kitchen remodel size

Cost Breakdown

Materials$14,850
Labor$12,771
Permits (4%)$1,105

Estimated Total Cost

$28,726

Mid-range Kitchen Remodel150 sq ft in Syracuse

Materials

$14,850

52% of total

Labor

$12,771

44% of total

Permits

$1,105

~$2,186 avg

43% Above National Average

The same kitchen remodel at the national average would cost approximately $20,085. Syracuse has higher-than-average construction costs due to local demand and cost of living.

View New York Statewide Costs

Compare Syracuse costs with the New York state average and other cities.

Project Cost Comparison: Syracuse vs National Average

Project TypeSyracuse AverageNational AverageDifference
Kitchen Remodel$50,000$35,000+43%
Bathroom Remodel$26,000$18,000+44%
Roof Replacement$21,500$15,000+43%
Whole House Paint$5,400$3,800+42%
Flooring Install$10,000$7,000+43%
Deck Build$17,000$12,000+42%

Material Prices in Syracuse

Concrete

$185 /cubic yard

At the estimated New York average of $185/yd³

Lumber

$7.79 /board foot

$0.53 above the estimated New York average of $7.26/BF

Popular Projects in Syracuse

🏚️

#1 Basement Finishing

Among the most requested projects by Syracuse homeowners

🏡

#2 Fence Installation

Among the most requested projects by Syracuse homeowners

🍳

#3 Kitchen Remodel

Among the most requested projects by Syracuse homeowners

Construction Cost Overview for Syracuse, NY

Construction and renovation costs in Syracuse, NY reflect the city's cost of living index of 150 and a material cost index of 132 (where 100 represents the national baseline). With an average construction labor rate of $46.44 per hour and a median home price of $490,755, homeowners in Syracuse should plan their renovation budgets carefully using local pricing data.

Syracuse sits in IECC Climate Zone 5 (Cool-Humid), 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 $78,260 in Syracuse means that a mid-range kitchen remodel at $50,000 represents approximately 64% of annual household income.

Building permits in Syracuse average $2,186, varying by project scope and local building department requirements. Major renovations involving structural, electrical, or plumbing work require permits in virtually all New York jurisdictions. Scheduling projects during off-peak seasons can save 5-15% on labor costs as contractors have greater availability.

Other Cities in New York

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a kitchen remodel cost in Syracuse, NY?
A mid-range kitchen remodel in Syracuse, NY costs approximately $50,000 on average. Budget renovations start around $35,000, while premium remodels with custom cabinetry and high-end appliances can reach $75,000 or more. Labor rates in Syracuse average $46.44/hour for general construction work.
What is the average construction labor rate in Syracuse?
Construction labor in Syracuse, NY averages $46.44 per hour. This is 43% above 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 Syracuse?
Most significant renovations in Syracuse, NY require building permits. Permit costs average around $2,186 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 Syracuse's cost of living affect construction costs?
Syracuse has a cost of living index of 150 (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 Syracuse is 132, reflecting local supply chain dynamics and demand levels.
What are the most popular home improvement projects in Syracuse?
The most popular construction and renovation projects in Syracuse, NY include Basement Finishing, Fence Installation, Kitchen Remodel. Kitchen remodels offer the highest ROI in Syracuse at approximately 60-75% of cost recovery upon resale. Bathroom renovations and roof replacements are also top priorities for Syracuse homeowners looking to increase property value.

Related Calculators