Drywall Installation in Philadelphia, PA — Costs $2,043 to $16,342

What does drywall installation cost in Philadelphia? Average $6,128, ranging $2,043–$16,342. Labor runs $42.89/hr locally — 36% above the national average. Free breakdown with material + labor split.

Philadelphia, PA Market

+36% vs national

Labor Rate

$42.89/hr

Material Index

126

Avg Permit Cost

$2,967

Median Home Price

$407,994

As one of the largest metros in Pennsylvania, Philadelphia 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. At 36% above the national average, Philadelphia is one of the more expensive markets for home improvement — driven primarily by above-average labor rates in the region. The median home in Philadelphia is valued at $407,994, putting this project at about 1.5% of home value — a moderate investment with a projected 50% ROI.

Low Estimate

$2,043

National: $1,500

Mid-Range

$6,128

National: $4,500

High End

$16,342

National: $12,000

Per Sq Ft

$4

National: $3

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

Drywall Installation Cost Calculator for Philadelphia

Adjusted for Philadelphia's labor rate ($42.89/hr) and material costs (index 126).

50 sq ft1,000 sq ft

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

Estimated Total in Philadelphia

$6,128

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

Local Cost Breakdown

Labor (60%)$3,677

At Philadelphia's average rate of $42.89/hr (43% above national avg)

Materials (40%)$2,451

Material cost index 126 (26% above national baseline of 100)

Drywall Installation vs. Home Value in Philadelphia

MetricPhiladelphiaNational Avg
Drywall Installation (Mid-Range)$6,128$4,500
Median Home Price$407,994$350,000
Project as % of Home Value1.5%1.3%
Estimated ROI50%50%
Median Household Income$85,450$75,000

What Affects the Price in Philadelphia

  • 1Local labor rates ($42.89/hr in Philadelphia)
  • 2Material cost index (126 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 Philadelphia

A drywall installation typically doesn't require a permit in Philadelphia, 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 Philadelphia, skilled contractors charge an average of $42.89/hr, and the specialized nature of this work means cutting corners on labor can lead to costly rework.

With a median household income of $85,450, many Philadelphia residents can budget for this project through savings. The mid-range cost of $6,128 represents 7% of the typical household's annual income.

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