How Much Does a Second Story Deck Cost? [2026 Data]

On average, building a second-story deck costs $4,800, though it can range anywhere from $1,000 to $16,000 depending on the size of the deck and the decking material you use. On average, you can expect to pay between $40 and $50 per square foot.

Second Story Deck Cost Factors

The biggest factors in second-story deck installation cost are deck size and decking material. Several other factors also play a role.

Size

Accounting for both labor and materials, the average second-story deck costs $40 to $50 per square foot. Depending on the material used, you may pay anywhere from $30 to $90 per square foot. There is no standard deck size, so your total cost can vary greatly depending on the total square footage of your project.

Materials

Decking material is the biggest factor in the cost to build a deck.

Below is a breakdown of each material and its costs:

• Pressure-treated wood costs $2 to $5 per square foot. This common decking material is durable, but high-maintenance.

• Cedar decking costs $3 to $7 per square foot. It resists bugs, moisture, and UV rays.

• Bamboo decking costs $3 to $10 per square foot. It's strong and resistant to mold and rot, but it's not suited for colder climates.

• Mahogany decking costs $8 to $11 per square foot and is relatively low-maintenance.

• Tigerwood decking costs $7 to $15 per square foot and has a distinct striped pattern that many value for its aesthetic appeal.

• Ipe wood decking costs $10 to $20 per square foot. This material is extremely durable, but it also typically comes with higher labor costs.

• Composite decking costs $12 to $22 per square foot. This sustainable decking material is made mostly of recycled materials.

• Aluminum or metal decking costs $15 to $20 per square foot and makes for a long-lasting, low-maintenance waterproof deck.

• Redwood decking costs $5 to $35 per square foot. This wood naturally repels pests.

Labor

Labor for a second-story deck installation costs $10 to $45 per square foot on average, accounting for 30% to 50% of the total project cost. You'll pay slightly more to hire a deck building contractor for an elevated deck than a ground-level deck due to the extra time and expertise required to build a raised framework, as well as the increased insurance costs.

Location

Second-story decks are more common in warmer parts of the country, such as the southwest and southeast. Since labor and materials are more readily available in these regions, costs tend to be lower on average. Similarly, you'll pay more to install a second-story deck in colder, northern regions.

Permits

Most jurisdictions require a permit to construct a new deck. The average permitting and inspection fees for an elevated deck total about $500.

Shape

A rectangular deck is the most common design and is easiest to construct. If you want a specialty shape, your project will require additional planning, labor, permitting, and material waste. Expect project costs to increase by anywhere from 50% to 100% for a specialty deck shape.

Why You Should Hire a Deck Builder

While a DIY approach may seem like a good way to save money, building a second-story deck is a project that’s best left to the pros. Mistakes can lead to costly problems like failed inspections, safety risks, and repairs. Hiring a local deck builder helps ensure your deck is built safely and to code. 

Here’s why it’s ideal to hire a deck builder

Installing an elevated deck requires experience, specialized tools, and a strong understanding of structural safety.

• Elevated decks must be engineered to safely support weight and meet code requirements.

• Proper attachment to the home and support posts is critical to prevent dangerous issues like sagging and collapse.

• Pros can handle permits, inspections, and local code compliance properly.

• They also have the tools and equipment needed for framing at taller heights.

• Hiring a pro reduces safety risks and helps avoid costly reworks. 

If you want to DIY part of the installation process

While the structural work should be left to a pro, there are a few tasks you can safely handle to help reduce costs.

• Demolish and haul away the existing deck yourself.

• Clear the area below the deck to allow faster access for construction.

• Apply stain, sealant, or paint after the deck is installed.

• Install non-structural accessories yourself, like privacy screens and post caps.

Cost of Common Deck Add-Ons

There are various optional costs for a deck-building project. An awning can offer shade and protection from the elements, while sealing or painting can protect your deck and help increase its lifespan. Note that a staircase may be required in some regions due to local fire codes.

• Awning: $800–$5,000

• Deck sealing or waterproofing: $400–$2,100

• Deck painting: $500–$2,000

• Deck staircase: $1,000–$2,000

• Prefabricated stairs: $800–$1,000

How You Can Save Money on Second-Story Deck Costs

You can do many things to reduce the overall cost of a second-story deck:

• Opt for more affordable materials, such as pressure-treated wood

• Choose a simple rectangular design

• Do your own prep by clearing the work area ahead of time

• Handle the DIY-friendly aspects of the project yourself

DIY Savings

While it's not advisable to build a second-story deck as a DIY, parts of the project are still DIY-friendly. Deck paint only costs about $40 to $120 per gallon, and you can save over $1,000 by handling the painting yourself.

The same goes for the cost of the deck railing. If you have carpentry skills and can make accurate measurements and cuts, you can save around $700 on average by installing a railing yourself.

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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