Second Story Addition in Memphis, TN — Costs $70,627 to $441,417

What does second story addition cost in Memphis? Average $176,567, ranging $70,627–$441,417. Labor runs $26.27/hr locally — 12% below the national average. Free breakdown with material + labor split.

Memphis, TN Market

-12% vs national

Labor Rate

$26.27/hr

Material Index

89

Avg Permit Cost

$711

Median Home Price

$218,465

As one of the largest metros in Tennessee, Memphis 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. Memphis offers slightly below-average renovation costs, giving homeowners a small cost advantage compared to most US markets. At a median home price of $218,465, homeowners in Memphis should weigh the project cost (80.8% of home value) carefully against expected returns to avoid over-improving for the local market.

Low Estimate

$70,627

National: $80,000

Mid-Range

$176,567

National: $200,000

High End

$441,417

National: $500,000

Per Sq Ft

$265

National: $300

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

Second Story Addition Cost Calculator for Memphis

Adjusted for Memphis's labor rate ($26.27/hr) and material costs (index 89).

50 sq ft1,000 sq ft

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

Estimated Total in Memphis

$176,567

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

Local Cost Breakdown

Labor (50%)$88,284

At Memphis's average rate of $26.27/hr (12% below national avg)

Materials (50%)$88,284

Material cost index 89 (11% below national baseline of 100)

Second Story Addition vs. Home Value in Memphis

MetricMemphisNational Avg
Second Story Addition (Mid-Range)$176,567$200,000
Median Home Price$218,465$350,000
Project as % of Home Value80.8%57.1%
Estimated ROI60%60%
Median Household Income$44,889$75,000

What Affects the Price in Memphis

  • 1Local labor rates ($26.27/hr in Memphis)
  • 2Material cost index (89 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 Memphis

Building permits are typically required for a second story addition in Memphis. The average permit fee in this area is $711, 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 Memphis, skilled contractors charge an average of $26.27/hr, and the specialized nature of this work means cutting corners on labor can lead to costly rework.

In Memphis, where the median household income is $44,889, a $176,567 project requires careful budgeting. Look into home improvement loans, HELOC options, or local grants that may be available in Tennessee.

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