How Much Does It Cost to Install or Replace Carpet?

Carpet Installation Costs

The cost to install a carpet ranges from $787 and $2,799, and the average carpet cost runs about $1,767. Most homeowners pay $3.50 to $11 per square foot. Materials alone average $2 to $7 per square foot but may reach as high as $20 or more for high-end options. Labor adds $0.50 to $1 per square foot.

New Carpet Cost by Material

Cotton

Cotton carpeting costs $6 to $7 per square foot. As a natural product, it prices higher than synthetic types.

It is most notable for softness and low amounts of volatile organic chemicals (VOCs). However, like garments made of the same material, it stains and fades easily. It may be more appropriate for homes without young children or pets.

Nylon

Nylon carpet costs $2 to $5 per square foot. Used in the majority of products sold in the United States, it is durable and easy to clean. That makes it suitable for:

• High-traffic areas

• Families with kids and pets

• Indoor-outdoor use

This material replaced acrylic carpeting, a type that lost popularity because it pilled easily.

Polyester

Another popular synthetic material, polyester carpeting averages $1 to $3 per square foot. Well-known for its beautiful color, it also resists fading and wear over time. The fiber itself is mold-and-mildew-resistant and generally considered non-allergenic.

Product quality varies widely based on construction. Low-density styles are especially susceptible to tracking and crushing, making them a poor choice for high-traffic areas.

Polypropylene or Olefin

Polypropylene or olefin carpets cost $1 to $3 per square foot. It is the fastest-growing fiber in popularity. As a common plastic, it may be made from recycled materials. It is known for its durability and incredible resistance to:

• Stains

• Moisture

• Bleaching

• Sun-fading

Sisal

Sisal carpet ranges from $5 to $15 per square foot. Made of leaves from the agave plant, this woven material provides a very strong surface perfect for high-traffic areas. It can feel rough underfoot, so it might not be a good fit for bedrooms.

Wool

The price of wool carpeting runs $4 to $20 per square foot, averaging $5 to $7 per square foot. The best-known style is Berber. The cost to install a Berber carpet ranges from $375 to $600.

The most traditional and eco-friendly choice, wool is a premium fiber notable for its deep, rich look and luxurious feel. Along with a higher expense, homeowners who choose it should expect a durable, stain-resistant product. Because it is natural, wool is more susceptible to fading and static. It also absorbs moisture, possibly leading to mold and mildew in wetter areas like basements.

Average Cost to Install Carpet

Installing new carpet costs $3.50 to $11 per square foot. Our wide user-reported costs are likely due to the many factors that affect installation price:

• Room size and shape

• Style

• Furniture removal

• Hauling out old flooring

• Labor

* Furniture removal, special cuts, hauling away

Labor Cost of Laying Carpet

The labor price to install carpeting runs $0.50 to $1 per square foot on average. This usually does not include removing existing flooring or preparing the subfloor. Projects that require extra features, like stairs, can cost an additional $1 to $2 per square foot.

How Much to Carpet a House?

Cost to Carpet a Room

Bedroom Carpeting Cost

Carpeting a 12’ x 12’ bedroom costs $500 to $1,600. If the space measures less than this, you may pay more than $2 to $7 per square foot for materials. Most products come in 12’ or 15’ rolls. You’re buying the whole width even if you don’t use it all.

Basement Carpeting Cost

The cost to install 500 square feet of basement carpeting ranges from $1,750 to $5,500. Depending on the type of pad, you may also need to pay $0.25 to $0.75 per square foot for a moisture barrier.

Basements are more humid and prone to flooding than the main floor. It’s important to avoid materials like wool that absorb moisture. Polyester or olefin are good alternatives.

Average Cost of Putting Carpeting in a Living Room

How Much to Carpet Stairs?

Carpeting stairs costs $3.50 to $11 per square foot, plus an extra $11 to $26 per step. This additional charge accommodates a more-complicated installation, which includes:

• Extra cutting

• Higher number of tack strips

• Unusual shapes, like a rounded stairway

Carpet Replacement Cost

The cost to replace carpet runs $9.50 to $19 per square foot. This includes the price to remove carpet and prepare the subfloor, which runs $6 to $8 per square foot.

Apartment Carpet Replacement Cost

The expense to replace carpeting in an apartment or condo ranges from $9.50 to $11.50 per square foot. This is because property owners tend to choose builder-grade products at $1 to $3 per square foot. Homeowners should consider the following factors:

• How long you want it to last

• Whether you’ll replace the material and pad after each tenant

• Flooring guidelines for homeowner’s associations (HOAs)

If you don’t own the apartment, get permission from the owner or property manager before scheduling installation.

Additional Costs & Fees to Install Carpet

In addition to the carpet and installation, there are several other factors that may affect the total. These include:

• Price of subfloor repair or replacement: $550

• Trim installation prices: $1,300

• Expense to remove old flooring: $1-$3 per square foot

• Haul away old carpet: $0.25-$0.50 per square foot

• Cost to move or rearrange furniture: $180

• Custom cuts, which take more time and require additional material

Carpet Prices

Carpet Price Per Square Foot

Carpet prices range from $1 per square foot for builder-grade olefin and polyester materials to $20 per square foot for high-end wool. The style and materials used to make it determine its cost. This means you need to balance your desired look and effect with your remodel budget.

Carpet Prices per Square Yard

Carpet costs $9 to $180 per square yard, another common measurement manufacturers use. When you request estimates, make sure you know if the price is per square foot or per square yard.

Carpet Tiles Cost per Square Foot

Carpet tiles cost $1 to $6 per square foot. Manufacturers often sell this product as “peel and stick” in these common sizes:

• 12 by 12 inches (12" x 12")

• 18 by 18 inches (18” x 18”)

• 24 by 24 inches (24” x 24”)

Homeowners prefer this style because it’s easy to mix and match colors and patterns.

Glue-Down Carpet Estimate

Glue-down carpet runs $2 to $7 per square foot. This type uses tight loops to make installation easier and more durable. Although carpet tiles are a common form, there are wall-to-wall styles, too.

Wall-to-Wall Carpet Cost Estimator

It’s best to start by figuring out how much you’ll need. To estimate it, multiply the length and width of each room. Our carpet calculator will give you a total in square feet or square yards.

Most carpet comes in rolls that are 12 or 15 feet wide. You may need to add 5% to 20% in extra material, depending on the shape and dimensions of each room

Carpet Types and Prices

Cut Pile Carpet Costs

Cut pile carpets cost $1 to $12 per square foot. The name describes a process where the woven loops are all cut to the same height and tufted at the ends. The resulting appearance is dense and soft. This type includes four subcategories:

• Saxony or Plush: The most common type, this looks like a freshly-mowed lawn. It’s subject to fluffing or shedding, however, so it may last 5 to 10 years longer in low-traffic areas.

• Textured Saxony: This style features twists to create a permanent curl and resist lines and wear. It’s great for medium-to-high-traffic areas.

• Frieze: This yarn twists more tightly than textured Saxony, so it actually curls over. It creates a durable product that resists lines and works well in high-traffic areas.

• Cable: Known for its thicker and longer yarn, this carpet offers the softest comfort. However, it is subject to wear and matting, making it practical for low-traffic areas.

Loop Pile Carpet Prices

Loop pile carpet runs $1 to $5 per square foot. This style features uncut yarn. It is commonly used in high-traffic areas of homes and businesses. Since the loops connect to the backing on both ends, it is incredibly durable and resistant to lines. Products may include:

• Multicolored threads to hide dirt and stains

• Low-and-high-profile areas to add texture and concealment

Cut and Loop Carpet Costs

Cut and loop carpet costs $1 to $10 per square foot. Manufacturers combine cut pile and loop styles to make unique patterns and designs that add interest and texture to a room.

This style stands up well and easily conceals lines. That makes it a good choice for medium-to-high-traffic areas.

DIY Carpet Cost vs. Hiring a Pro

At $0.50 to $1.00 per square foot, professional carpet installation represents a small portion of the total price. This project is easy to get wrong and costs a lot more in new material to fix, so it’s best to hire a pro.

How to Get Cheap Carpet Installation & the Best Carpet Prices

As you browse our carpet buying guide, keep in mind that cost varies widely from one business to the next. Contractors make money on labor and as much as 50% to 75% markup on materials.

Major home improvement stores and even some local companies periodically offer free installation with purchase. These deals often require a minimum square footage to justify the work.

Getting Free Carpet Estimates

It’s customary for installers to offer a free in-home estimate. Before you start contacting carpet layers near you, follow these tips:

1. Have the pro measure each room before setting costs.

2. Ask to see samples for every product you consider.

3. Get the estimate in writing.

FAQs

How much does it cost to carpet a 12-foot-by-12-foot room?

The cost to carpet a 144-square-foot area is $504 to $1,584, with an average cost per square foot of $3.50 to $11 to install carpet. The carpet price range accounts for carpeting (from builder-grade to high-end), carpet padding, and installation costs.

What’s a cheap carpet price and which type is the cheapest?

The cheapest carpets cost $1 to $2 per square foot, not including installation. These products are usually made of polyester or olefin.

How much does it cost to carpet 3 bedrooms?

The total cost to carpet 3 bedrooms measuring an average 500 square feet runs $1,750 to $5,500. Actual estimates vary based on room dimensions.

How much does it cost to install carpet and pad?

The labor cost to install carpet and pad ranges from $0.50 to $1 per square foot.

How long does carpet last?

Carpet usually lasts 5 to 20 years. Lifespan depends on material quality, traffic, and maintenance.

How much does it cost to re-carpet a room?

Carpet replacement costs $9.50 to $19 per square foot. This includes removal, preparing the surface, and installation.

How much is it to change from hardwood to carpeting?

The cost to replace hardwood with carpeting runs $3.50 to $11 per square foot if you plan to leave the old flooring in place. You’ll pay an extra $1 to $3 per square foot to remove it.

Can I install carpet on concrete?

In most cases, you can install carpet on concrete. Some types allow you to place it directly on the subfloor. Others require a pad or moisture barrier.

How much does carpet removal and installation cost?

Carpet removal costs $2 to $3 per square foot, on top of $3.50 to $11 per square foot to install new material. This does not include disposal of the old flooring.

How much does carpet maintenance cost and what’s involved?

Carpet cleaning costs $125 to $250. Maintenance may include steaming, dry-cleaning, and spot treatment. If you have holes or burns, carpet repair averages $150 to $275.

How much does it cost to install 1,200 square feet of carpet?

If you have a larger area to carpet, like your bedrooms and living room, you’ll want to budget accordingly. 1,200 square feet of carpeting runs from $4,200 to $13,200 to install. This range covers builder-grade materials to high-end materials, such as wool and sisal.

How much does indoor-outdoor carpeting cost?

The average indoor-outdoor carpeting costs $2 to $3 per square foot. This type usually does not need a pad.

How much are commercial carpet prices?

Commercial carpet prices range from $2 to $7 per square foot, similar to residential. Property owners looking to buy for a business may want to choose styles known for durability, like a loop pile.