Second Story Addition in Allentown, PA — Costs $87,773 to $548,583

What does second story addition cost in Allentown? Average $219,433, ranging $87,773–$548,583. Labor runs $33.73/hr locally — 10% above the national average. Free breakdown with material + labor split.

Allentown, PA Market

+10% vs national

Labor Rate

$33.73/hr

Material Index

107

Avg Permit Cost

$1,917

Median Home Price

$384,519

Allentown is a mid-sized city in Pennsylvania with a healthy pool of local contractors. Homeowners generally have several options to compare for a second story addition, which helps keep pricing competitive. Costs in Allentown run slightly above the national average, though the gap is modest enough that smart material choices and timing can close it. The median home in Allentown is valued at $384,519, putting this project at about 57.1% of home value — a moderate investment with a projected 60% ROI.

Low Estimate

$87,773

National: $80,000

Mid-Range

$219,433

National: $200,000

High End

$548,583

National: $500,000

Per Sq Ft

$329

National: $300

Duration: 4-8 months
DIY: Hard
Permits: Required
ROI: 60%

Second Story Addition Cost Calculator for Allentown

Adjusted for Allentown's labor rate ($33.73/hr) and material costs (index 107).

50 sq ft1,000 sq ft

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

Estimated Total in Allentown

$219,433

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

Local Cost Breakdown

Labor (50%)$109,717

At Allentown's average rate of $33.73/hr (12% above national avg)

Materials (50%)$109,717

Material cost index 107 (7% above national baseline of 100)

Second Story Addition vs. Home Value in Allentown

MetricAllentownNational Avg
Second Story Addition (Mid-Range)$219,433$200,000
Median Home Price$384,519$350,000
Project as % of Home Value57.1%57.1%
Estimated ROI60%60%
Median Household Income$60,125$75,000

What Affects the Price in Allentown

  • 1Local labor rates ($33.73/hr in Allentown)
  • 2Material cost index (107 vs national 100)
  • 3Total square footage added
  • 4Structural reinforcement of first floor
  • 5Staircase addition
  • 6Roof removal and replacement

Popular Upgrades

  • Master suite
  • Additional bedrooms
  • Jack-and-Jill bathroom

Planning a Second Story Addition in Allentown

Building permits are typically required for a second story addition in Allentown. The average permit fee in this area is $1,917, though costs vary based on project scope. Permit fees in this market are above average — factor them into your total budget. Plan for 4-8 months from start to finish.

A second story addition is a complex project best left to licensed professionals. In Allentown, skilled contractors charge an average of $33.73/hr, and the specialized nature of this work means cutting corners on labor can lead to costly rework.

For the median Allentown household earning $60,125/year, this project at $219,433 represents a significant investment. Consider financing options or phasing the work to spread costs over time.

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