How Much Does It Cost to Build a Balcony? [2025 Data]

This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by an Angi Editor in accordance with our AI policy.

Homeowners spend between $2,000 and $30,000 to build a balcony, with an average cost of $14,000. Expect to pay between $30 and $90 per square foot, depending on the materials, design, and labor. Understanding these costs helps you plan your project and avoid surprises.

Building a balcony adds valuable outdoor space and style to your home. This guide explains what drives the price, what to expect at each stage, and how to make wise choices for your budget.

Balcony Building Cost Breakdown

The cost to build a balcony ranges from $8,000 to $25,000 or more, with most homeowners paying about $14,000 for a mid-sized, well-built structure. This total includes materials, labor, permits, site prep, and finishing work. Materials and design choices play a big role—basic wood balconies cost less, while steel, glass, or custom details increase the price.

Per-square-foot pricing for balcony construction ranges from $30 to $90. This covers framing, flooring, railings, waterproofing, and basic finishes. Costs climb if your balcony requires structural reinforcement, intricate railings, or premium decking.

New construction balconies are easier and sometimes less expensive to integrate than adding a balcony to an existing home, which may need extra structural work or demolition. The type of balcony you choose—such as a cantilevered, supported, Juliet, or freestanding one—also affects the price. Supported and freestanding balconies cost more due to the additional structural supports required.

Several factors contribute to higher costs, including difficult access, high-end materials, and complex designs. Simpler layouts, basic materials, and easy-access sites help keep costs lower.

Cost by Size of Balcony

Balcony size is one of the biggest cost drivers. Larger balconies require more materials, longer labor hours, and sometimes extra engineering. Most home balconies fall into three categories: small (under 40 square feet), medium (40 to 80 square feet), and large (over 80 square feet).

You can expect to pay $30 to $90 per square foot for balcony construction. For example, a 40-square-foot balcony might cost $1,200 to $3,600 in materials alone, but with labor and finishing, the total ranges much higher.

Multi-story or wraparound balconies require extra planning and support, adding significantly to the final cost. These projects often need custom engineering and specialized installation.

Choosing the right size for your needs and budget ensures you get the most value from your new outdoor space.

Balcony Building Pro Costs

Building a balcony safely and to code almost always requires professional help. Labor costs can range from $50 to $150 per hour, depending on your location and the contractor's level of experience. For a standard project, labor may total $4,000 to $10,000 or more.

Professional labor covers design, framing, waterproofing, railing installation, and finishing work. Regional rates vary, with higher costs in urban areas or regions with a high cost of living.

The main pros you’ll work with include:

• General contractor: Manages the entire project, coordinates subs, and ensures code compliance. Expect to pay $5,000 to $12,000 for general contractor fees in a balcony project.

• Structural engineer: Essential if you’re adding a balcony to an existing home or need custom supports. Structural engineer fees range from $500 to $2,500, depending on complexity.

• Carpenter or balcony specialist: Handles framing, decking, and railing installation. The costs range from $2,000 to $7,000.

Hiring experienced pros ensures your balcony is safe, durable, and built to last.

Additional Pros to Consider Hiring

Depending on your design and needs, you may need to hire additional specialists:

• Architect or designer fees: For custom plans or complex layouts, budget $2,000 to $6,000.

• Electrician costs: Adding lighting or electrical outlets can cost $300 to $1,200.

• Mason or welder: For stone, steel, or glass work, expect $1,000 to $5,000.

• Painter or finisher: Painting, staining, or sealing costs $300 to $2,000, depending on balcony size and finish choices.

• Roofer: If your balcony is located above a living space or requires roof modification, roofing professionals may charge between $1,000 and $5,000.

These pros help ensure every element of your balcony meets your vision and functional needs.

Cost by Location

Where you live impacts the cost of building a balcony. Labor rates, material availability, and permit fees all vary by region. Urban areas often have higher costs due to increased demand and stricter codes, while rural areas might see lower prices but less contractor availability.

Local permit fees and complexity of access can also affect your final price, so it’s smart to get quotes from nearby pros.

Additional Cost Factors

In addition to size, type, and materials, several extra costs may affect your overall budget for building a balcony. Sales tax on materials and services can add a few hundred dollars, depending on your location. Your homeowner’s insurance premium may increase slightly if your new balcony adds risk or value to your property.

Some homeowners opt to purchase extended warranties for balcony materials or workmanship, which can cost between $200 and $1,000. Accessories, such as built-in seating, planters, lighting, or privacy screens, add to the total. If you require ADA features, such as ramps, wider doors, or non-slip surfaces, you can expect additional costs.

Site accessibility can also increase labor time and expense—tight spaces or difficult access may require special equipment. If your home needs repairs before building, such as fixing rot or reinforcing walls, this can add thousands to the project. Finally, post-construction cleanup services cost between $200 and $500.

Demolition and Prep

If you’re replacing an old deck or balcony, demolition and site preparation are essential. Demolition includes removing the existing structure, hauling away debris, and preparing the site for new construction. This process costs $500 to $2,500, depending on the size and complexity.

Sometimes, structural reinforcement or foundation work is needed before building the new balcony. This can add $1,000 to $5,000 to your budget, but it is crucial for safety and durability.

Permits

Most balcony projects require permits. Common types include building, zoning, and sometimes HOA approval. Your contractor often handles the permit process, but homeowners should confirm who is responsible.

Permit costs range from $300 to $1,500, depending on your municipality and project scope. The permit process can take several days to several weeks. Building without proper permits can result in fines, forced removal, or complications when selling your home. Always ensure all paperwork is in order before starting construction.

DIY Balcony Build vs. Hiring a Pro

Taking on a balcony project yourself can save on labor costs, but it comes with significant risks and responsibilities. DIY balcony builds can cost $3,000 to $10,000 for materials and basic tools, compared to $8,000 to $25,000 for a professionally built project. However, you’ll need to invest substantial time, research, and effort to ensure safety and code compliance.

Here are the common materials and tools required for a DIY balcony project:

• Lumber or decking materials

• Fasteners and connectors

• Railing systems

• Waterproofing membranes or sealants

• Power tools (saws, drills)

• Safety equipment (gloves, goggles, harnesses)

DIY construction requires strong carpentry skills and a deep understanding of structural requirements. Expect to spend several weekends, or possibly longer, on the project. Risks include improper installation, unsafe structures, and insurance issues in the event of an accident or other unforeseen circumstances. For multi-story or structurally complex balconies, it’s best to hire a local deck builder to protect your investment and safety.

A basic DIY cost breakdown might look like this: $2,500 for materials, $500 for tools, and $300 for permits and cleanup, totaling $3,300, but this does not include the value of your time or the risk of mistakes.

Balcony Remodel vs. Renovate

A balcony remodel involves changing the structure, size, or layout, while a renovation focuses on updating finishes, repairing, or restoring existing elements. Remodeling is more expensive, with costs ranging from $8,000 to $25,000 or more, depending on the scope of the project. Renovating an existing balcony, such as resurfacing the deck, replacing railings, or repairing minor damage, costs between $2,000 and $7,000.

You should consider remodeling if your balcony has structural issues, needs a new layout, or you want to increase its size. Renovation is best for cosmetic updates or minor repairs. Common repairs, such as replacing railings or waterproofing, cost between $500 and $3,000.

Remodels often come with longer lifespans and greater value increases, but may require new permits and insurance updates. Renovations are less disruptive and more affordable, but have a smaller impact on home value.

Tips to Reduce Costs While Building a Balcony

To  keep costs down when building a balcony, consider the following tips:

• Choose standard sizes and designs to minimize custom work.

• Opt for cost-effective materials that strike a balance between durability and price.

• Source materials locally to reduce shipping costs.

• Schedule construction during off-peak seasons for better rates.

• Get multiple quotes from qualified pros to compare pricing.

• Handle demolition or cleanup yourself if safe and feasible.

• Limit add-ons and specialty features to essentials.

• Maintain your balcony regularly to avoid costly repairs.

Does Building a Balcony Increase Home Value?

Adding a balcony can increase your home’s value and curb appeal, especially in markets where outdoor living is prized. Homeowners often see a return on investment (ROI) of 50% to 80%, depending on location, design, and quality. While this is slightly lower than major kitchen or bathroom remodels, a well-placed balcony can set your home apart and attract more buyers.

Factors impacting value include your region, the quality of materials, the size and placement of the balcony, and whether it offers a great view or privacy. To maximize ROI, select a design that seamlessly integrates with your home’s architecture and opt for durable, attractive materials. Be aware that an increase in home value may result in higher property taxes or insurance premiums.

How Angi Gets Its Cost Data

Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We extensively research project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We rely on reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects. 

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