Second Story Addition in Lexington, KY — Costs $64,733 to $404,583

What does second story addition cost in Lexington? Average $161,833, ranging $64,733–$404,583. Labor runs $23.65/hr locally — 19% below the national average. Free breakdown with material + labor split.

Lexington, KY Market

-19% vs national

Labor Rate

$23.65/hr

Material Index

83

Avg Permit Cost

$639

Median Home Price

$211,773

Lexington is a mid-sized city in Kentucky with a healthy pool of local contractors. Homeowners generally have several options to compare for a second story addition, which helps keep pricing competitive. Lexington is well below the national average for renovation costs, making it a favorable market for homeowners considering a second story addition. At a median home price of $211,773, homeowners in Lexington should weigh the project cost (76.4% of home value) carefully against expected returns to avoid over-improving for the local market.

Low Estimate

$64,733

National: $80,000

Mid-Range

$161,833

National: $200,000

High End

$404,583

National: $500,000

Per Sq Ft

$243

National: $300

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

Second Story Addition Cost Calculator for Lexington

Adjusted for Lexington's labor rate ($23.65/hr) and material costs (index 83).

50 sq ft1,000 sq ft

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

Estimated Total in Lexington

$161,833

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

Local Cost Breakdown

Labor (50%)$80,917

At Lexington's average rate of $23.65/hr (21% below national avg)

Materials (50%)$80,917

Material cost index 83 (17% below national baseline of 100)

Second Story Addition vs. Home Value in Lexington

MetricLexingtonNational Avg
Second Story Addition (Mid-Range)$161,833$200,000
Median Home Price$211,773$350,000
Project as % of Home Value76.4%57.1%
Estimated ROI60%60%
Median Household Income$51,767$75,000

What Affects the Price in Lexington

  • 1Local labor rates ($23.65/hr in Lexington)
  • 2Material cost index (83 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 Lexington

Building permits are typically required for a second story addition in Lexington. The average permit fee in this area is $639, 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 Lexington, skilled contractors charge an average of $23.65/hr, and the specialized nature of this work means cutting corners on labor can lead to costly rework.

For the median Lexington household earning $51,767/year, this project at $161,833 represents a significant investment. Consider financing options or phasing the work to spread costs over time.

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