How Much Does It Cost to Convert a Vaulted Ceiling to a Second Floor? [2025 Data]

Average Cost to Convert a Vaulted Ceiling

The cost to convert a vaulted ceiling to a second floor often ranges from $13,000 for a budget-conscious bedroom installation to $26,500 for a large bedroom suite with a bathroom. That said, total costs can span from $9,000 to $50,000. Most homeowners spend an average of $20,500.

Cost to Convert a Vaulted Ceiling by Square Footage

The cost to convert a vaulted ceiling into a second-floor room depends on the size, with a 200-square-foot room costing $13,000 to $30,500. Most second-story additions range from 100 to 400 square feet. If more space is needed, consider adding a dormer, which averages around $12,000 to install.

Here’s what you might pay based on square footage, based on the size of the second floor:

• 100 square feet: $9,000–$15,000

• 200 square feet: $13,000–$30,500

• 400 square feet: $20,500–$50,000

How Much Does Labor Cost?

For your conversion, you may need to hire a general contractor, architect, structural engineer, carpenter, plumber, electrician, and other pros. Below is a breakdown of the potential pros needed, as well as their costs.

• Cost to hire a contractor: 10%–40% addition to the project's price tag

• Architect cost: $45–$250 per hour

• Structural engineer cost: $70–$250 per hour

• Carpenter cost: $75–$100 per hour

• Rough-in plumbing for a bathroom and kitchen costs: $1,600–$2,900 each

• Installing a sink costs: $220–$645

• Shower installation costs: $500–$3,000

• Toilet installation costs: $225–$530

• Faucet installation costs: $160–$365 each

• Plumbing vent rerouting costs: $900–$3,000

• Outlet installation costs: $130–$300 each

• Installing a light fixture costs: $155–$955 each

• Installing a dedicated circuit costs: $570–$1,000

• Upgrade electrical panel costs: $1,200–$2,000

• Adding a subpanel costs: $400–$2,000

Additional Cost Factors for Converting a Vaulted Ceiling to a Second Floor

In addition to the costs of hiring labor and purchasing materials, there are some other costs to consider, including the following. 

• Permits: $500–$3,000 for a construction permit and $10–$500 for each mechanical permit

• Demolition and prep: $50–$100 per hour

• Post-construction cleanup: $270–$700

• Taxes and insurance: Will increase based on the new property

• Utilities: $20–$50+ increase per month

DIY Vaulted Ceiling Conversion vs. Hiring a Pro

When converting a vaulted ceiling into a second floor, labor will account for 50% to 60% of the total cost. Because of its complexity, this job isn't a great candidate for a DIY project. We recommend hiring a local home addition contractor near you, who will perform the following tasks: 

• Get all permits and inspections

• Hire and manage tradespeople and subcontractors

• Schedule subcontractor work while adjusting to changes

• Ensure the new and old spaces meet building code standards

• Provide a warranty after the project

• Clean up your new space to move-in-ready condition

It’s possible to manage the project yourself by hiring each tradesperson as needed. However, this method is time-consuming and challenging, as you'll deal with scheduling, delays, inspections, and making adjustments for unforeseen occurrences. You might also hire a contractor for the structural elements and perform some of the finishing work yourself. 

Cost to Convert a Vaulted Ceiling to a Second Floor vs. Adding a Second Story

In cases where the house structure lacks sufficient height, an alternative option is to add a second story to the home, which is a more costly solution. Yet another option is to add a room above the garage. 

• Cost to convert a vaulted ceiling to a second floor: $20,500

• Average cost to add a second story to the home:  $175,000

• Average cost to add a room above the garage: $50,000

Tips to Reduce the Cost of Converting a Vaulted Ceiling to a Second Floor

Since this is a large project, there are several opportunities to save money, including the following: 

• Identify discounted, upcycled, or recycled materials for your conversion where possible. Reuse stores often have standard home products, such as doors and other interior elements, for low prices. 

• If you hire a contractor, you may be able to negotiate some cost savings by performing tasks yourself. Some options for DIY involvement include drywall installation ($990 to $3,200), painting a room ($400 to $1,600), demo work ($4 to $15 per square foot), and post-construction cleanup ($270 to $700).

• Aim to get at least three quotes from local contractors so you can compare prices and get the best deal.

Does Converting a Vaulted Ceiling to a Second Floor Increase Home Value?

Converting a vaulted ceiling to a second story could see returns of up to 40%. However, the new layout could deter some buyers, and in certain locations, the ROI could be so low as to warrant considering a different remodeling plan.