Drywall Installation in Milwaukee, WI — Costs $1,711 to $13,690

What does drywall installation cost in Milwaukee? Average $5,134, ranging $1,711–$13,690. Labor runs $35.84/hr locally — 14% above the national average. Free breakdown with material + labor split.

Milwaukee, WI Market

+14% vs national

Labor Rate

$35.84/hr

Material Index

106

Avg Permit Cost

$1,423

Median Home Price

$203,089

As one of the largest metros in Wisconsin, Milwaukee has a competitive contractor market with hundreds of licensed professionals. This typically gives homeowners more leverage on pricing, though high demand for renovations can offset that advantage. Costs in Milwaukee run slightly above the national average, though the gap is modest enough that smart material choices and timing can close it. At a median home price of $203,089, homeowners in Milwaukee should weigh the project cost (2.5% of home value) carefully against expected returns to avoid over-improving for the local market.

Low Estimate

$1,711

National: $1,500

Mid-Range

$5,134

National: $4,500

High End

$13,690

National: $12,000

Per Sq Ft

$3

National: $3

Duration: 2-5 days
DIY: Medium
Permits: Not Required
ROI: 50%

Drywall Installation Cost Calculator for Milwaukee

Adjusted for Milwaukee's labor rate ($35.84/hr) and material costs (index 106).

50 sq ft1,000 sq ft

Mid-grade materials, good quality fixtures, standard options.

Estimated Total in Milwaukee

$5,134

Based on 200 sq ft at mid quality, adjusted for Milwaukee market rates.

Local Cost Breakdown

Labor (60%)$3,080

At Milwaukee's average rate of $35.84/hr (19% above national avg)

Materials (40%)$2,054

Material cost index 106 (6% above national baseline of 100)

Drywall Installation vs. Home Value in Milwaukee

MetricMilwaukeeNational Avg
Drywall Installation (Mid-Range)$5,134$4,500
Median Home Price$203,089$350,000
Project as % of Home Value2.5%1.3%
Estimated ROI50%50%
Median Household Income$64,981$75,000

What Affects the Price in Milwaukee

  • 1Local labor rates ($35.84/hr in Milwaukee)
  • 2Material cost index (106 vs national 100)
  • 3Square footage
  • 4Ceiling vs wall
  • 5Drywall thickness
  • 6Tape and finish quality

Popular Upgrades

  • 5/8" fire-rated drywall
  • Moisture-resistant for bathrooms
  • Soundproofing drywall

Planning a Drywall Installation in Milwaukee

A drywall installation typically doesn't require a permit in Milwaukee, which simplifies planning. However, always confirm with the local building department before starting, especially for structural changes. Expect the project to take 2-5 days to complete.

A drywall installation is a complex project best left to licensed professionals. In Milwaukee, skilled contractors charge an average of $35.84/hr, and the specialized nature of this work means cutting corners on labor can lead to costly rework.

For the median Milwaukee household earning $64,981/year, this project at $5,134 represents a significant investment. Consider financing options or phasing the work to spread costs over time.

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