How Much Does Metal Stud Framing Cost to Install? [2026 Data]

In 2026, the national average cost for metal stud framing is $21,000. Most projects fall between $19,000 and $25,000, with the spread driven by wall type (interior vs. exterior), steel stud gauge thickness, and overall project scope. Costs can range from $13,000 for simple interior applications to $31,000 for full-structure exterior walls using heavy-gauge steel.

How Much Does Metal Stud Framing Cost by the Type of Structure?

The type of structure you're building is a primary cost driver for metal stud framing, with material costs ranging from $2 to $4 per square foot depending on the gauge you need. Interior, non-load-bearing walls use thinner gauges (20 to 25), which keep costs toward the lower end of that range, while exterior and load-bearing walls require thicker 16- or 18-gauge steel, pushing costs toward the top. Specialty applications, such as roof framing, typically cost more with metal than with comparable wood construction.

How Much Does Metal Stud Framing Cost by Size?

Project size is the single biggest factor in metal stud framing costs, with the combined labor and materials rate averaging $7 to $14 per square foot. Labor alone runs $5 to $10 per square foot, while materials account for $2 to $4 per square foot of that total. Multi-story builds and the cost of framing a house rise further because they require thicker gauge steel and support structures such as beams and joists, which add $15 to $75 per linear foot.

The table below compares average metal stud framing costs across five project sizes, from 200 to 2,000 square feet:

Framing Contractor Costs: What Do Pros Charge?

Hiring a local framing contractor is necessary for most metal stud framing projects beyond a simple wall or two, and doing so adds 10% to 20% to the total job cost. For smaller projects, contractors may charge $50 to $150 per hour rather than a project-based bid. Your contractor will typically handle material sourcing, permit acquisition, and labor management as part of that cost.

Electrician Costs for Metal Stud Framing Installation

If your metal stud framing project requires electrical work to make the space livable, expect to pay $50 to $130 per hour for an electrician, plus additional charges for materials and trip fees. Some electricians offer flat rates for common services, so costs will vary depending on the specific work involved. Here are some common electrician charges when installing metal stud framing:

• Installing an outlet: $100–$450

• Installing a light fixture: $160–$1,015

• Rewiring: $130–$6,200

Plumber Costs for Metal Stud Framing Installation

If your framing project includes a wet wall in a kitchen or bathroom, budget $45 to $200 perhour for a plumber to handle installation or repiping. The specific services required, such as sink installation, shower installation, or pipe replacement, will determine where your total falls within that range. Here are some common plumbing charges when installing metal stud framing:

• Installing a sink: $215–$665

• Installing a shower: $6,000–$12,000

• Replacing pipes: $370–$2,130

• Rough-in plumbing for a bathroom: $3,000–$20,000

Additional Pros to Consider Hiring for Metal Stud Framing Installation

Larger metal stud framing projects often require additional professionals beyond a framing contractor, including architects, interior designers, foundation builders, and excavation crews. The scope of your project will determine which of these specialists you need and how much their services add to your overall budget.

• Architect: $2,200–$11,560

• Interior Designer: $2,060–$15,215

• Foundation Builder: $4,015–$14,820

• Excavation: $1,660–$6,710

Metal Stud Framing Costs by State: Where Does It Cost the Most and Least?

Where you live has a meaningful impact on metal stud framing costs, with prices closely tied to the local cost of living and labor rates, regardless of whether you choose metal or wood studs. Costs by state vary significantly, as the table below shows:

Additional Cost Factors for Metal Stud Framing: What Affects the Price?

Beyond the core framing work, several additional factors can affect your total project cost, including demolition, permits, and changes to your taxes and insurance. Construction-related costs are typically folded into your contractor's bid, but items like tax implications and insurance adjustments require separate attention on your part.

Demolition and Prep

Demolition and prep work runs $50 to $150 per hour, with the total depending on how much clearing or site preparation your specific project requires before framing can begin.

Permits

Permit costs for metal stud framing projects average $525 to $3,040, with the final amount depending on the scope of the permitted work. Your contractor will typically handle the permit application process as part of managing the project.

Taxes and Insurance

A metal stud framing project that changes your home's layout, adds square footage, or increases its value can affect both your property taxes and your homeowner's insurance premiums. Talk with a tax professional about potential tax implications, and notify your insurance company of any changes to confirm your coverage remains adequate.

DIY Metal Stud Framing vs. Hiring a Pro

Framing with metal studs is a solid skill to add to your DIY toolkit. However, only highly experienced DIYers should attempt to construct anything more significant than adding an interior wall or two for a remodeling project.

In those situations, doing the job yourself can save up to 40% of the job cost. However, the task requires significant know-how and time to accomplish.

Most homeowners allow the pros to do the work. Hiring a local framing contractor ensures proper completion and code compliance, and will include a builder's warranty for your protection.

Metal Stud Replacement vs. Repair 

While metal studs are highly resistant to pests, fire, rot, and warping, they can suffer damage. Additionally, if they experience an impact or lengthy water submersion to the point of rusting, they can lose much of their structural integrity. Replacing damaged metal studs is the best route. 

However, if an accident or weather-caused damage is the culprit, you can often simply repair the damaged sections, making sure to replace structurally compromised studs. 

As a rule, if the damage repair estimate is more than 50% of the cost of replacing the section with damage, it makes sense to start from scratch and construct a new wall or structure. 

Tips to Reduce Cost While Framing with Metal Studs

For large metal stud framing projects, employing the DIY method to save money isn't a viable option. However, when working with a contractor, there are still several ways to help manage costs. 

• Specify that you wish to use lighter-gauge studs for interior, non-load-bearing walls where building code allows.

• Work with your designer or architect to create a layout that minimizes material and labor waste.

• Work with your contractor's schedule to negotiate for better pricing during off-peak seasons.

Does Metal Stud Framing Increase Home Value?

Metal stud framing can increase your home's value under specific conditions. While the dollar-amount ROI for metal stud framing isn't significant over other framing types, if you live in a humid, hot, or fire-prone location, the selling appeal, based on safety and longevity, can have a positive impact on the value of your home and its selling price. 

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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