How much does it cost to build or buy a shed?
Size and material set the base cost
Shed cost is generally calculated from floor area, in square feet or square metres, multiplied by a rate tied to the material and construction type you choose, since a basic resin or metal kit shed costs far less than a custom-built wood shed with finished interior space. This calculator uses your planned dimensions and shed type to produce a baseline estimate, and you can switch to a custom amount if you have a specific kit price or contractor quote in hand.
A prefabricated kit, delivered and assembled on site, is typically the most budget-friendly route for a basic storage shed, while a fully custom-built shed with windows, electrical wiring, and finished walls costs considerably more but functions more like a small outbuilding or studio than simple storage.
Foundation requirements depend on size and use
A small shed may only need a simple gravel pad or concrete blocks for support, while a larger shed, or one intended for heavier use, typically needs a proper concrete slab or pier foundation, which adds a meaningful cost on top of the shed structure itself. Local frost line depth affects how deep any foundation footings need to go, which varies significantly by climate.
Sheds above a certain square footage, often around 100 to 200 square feet (roughly 9 to 19 square metres) depending on your local code, typically require a building permit, so check with your municipality before purchasing or building, since this affects both cost and timeline.
Add-ons that change the final price
Windows, a wider door, built-in shelving, a loft for extra storage, and ramps all add cost to a basic shed and are usually priced as upgrades rather than included in a base kit price. Running electricity to a shed, for lighting, outlets, or to power tools, is a separate project from the shed structure itself and typically requires its own permit and electrician labor.
Painting or staining the exterior, especially for a wood shed, is sometimes included in a contractor's price and sometimes billed separately, so confirm which applies when comparing quotes.
Matching the shed to its purpose
A simple tool and lawn equipment shed has very different requirements than a shed meant to serve as a workshop, home office, or studio, and it's worth deciding on the end use before finalizing size and finish level, since retrofitting a basic storage shed later is often more expensive than building it right the first time. Our pergola cost calculator and patio paver calculator can help you plan surrounding outdoor features if the shed is part of a bigger backyard project.
How it's calculated
Shed footprint × a typical cost per sq ft or m² for the chosen material, plus foundation cost for the chosen foundation type, adjusted by your regional factor.
Worked example
A 120 sq ft wood shed on concrete piers in an average-cost area: 120 × $35 + 120 × $6 = $4,920.
Frequently asked questions
+Do I need a permit to build a shed?
It depends on size and your local rules; many areas exempt sheds under 100-200 sq ft from permits, but larger sheds, ones with electrical or plumbing, or ones near property lines often need one.
+Is a shed kit cheaper than building from scratch?
Resin and metal kits are usually the cheapest option since materials are pre-cut and standardized; custom wood sheds cost more but allow more flexibility in size and style.
+Do I need a real foundation for a shed?
A gravel pad works for small, light sheds, but larger or heavier sheds (especially wood) benefit from piers or a slab to prevent shifting and moisture problems.
+Can I add electricity to a shed?
Yes, running a dedicated circuit to a shed is common for workshops and studios, but it requires a licensed electrician and typically a permit.
+Can I enter my own cost per square foot?
Yes. Choose "Custom amount" under material or foundation type and enter your supplier's or contractor's quoted rate.
