What Does It Cost to Build a Barndominium in Texas?

What Does It Cost to Build a Barndominium in Texas?

If you're looking for a piece of property in Texas, one of the biggest questions that comes up is about barndominiums. People often ask, "What’s it going to cost to build one?" The truth is, it’s not an easy question to answer. It all depends on where you’re building, how you’re building, and the kind of finishes you want. We break it down in this YouTube video and here on our blog so you can get a better idea of what to expect.

The Land Matters

First things first, where are you building in Texas? Location plays a huge role in the cost of your barndominium.

• Hill Country: If you’re building in Texas Hill Country, you’ll likely run into rocky terrain. Prepping the ground and setting the foundation here can take more time and money.
• Sandy Areas: On the flip side, if you’re closer to the coast or somewhere with sandy soil, you’ll need special groundwork to stabilize the foundation.

The kind of soil and terrain you’re working with makes a big difference in overall costs.

Basic Structure: Slab and Shell Costs

When you’re starting with the basics—the slab and the shell—you can expect costs to average about $35 per square foot. For example, if you’re building a 4,000-square-foot barndominium, just the slab and shell will cost around $140,000.

Keep in mind this is just for the structure itself. No plumbing, electrical, or interior finishing is included at this stage.

Finishing the Interior

Here’s where things can really vary. The cost of finishing out the inside of your barndominium depends on how fancy you want to get.

• Basic Finish: For a straightforward, functional living space, expect to spend around $150 per square foot.
• High-End Finish: If you’re going all out with custom features, luxury materials, and a designer touch, the cost can go up to $300 per square foot—or even higher.

This means your 4,000-square-foot barndominium could cost anywhere from $600,000 to $1.2 million just for the interior.

Other Costs to Consider

There are a few other things you’ll need to budget for:

• Septic Systems: Installing a septic system will depend on your location and the kind of soil you’re working with.
• Utilities: Don’t forget about the cost of running electricity, water, and other utilities to the property. This can add a lot to your budget, especially in rural areas.
• Permits: Local permits and inspections are a must, and their cost will vary depending on where you’re building.

What’s the Total Cost?

To give you an idea, here’s a rough breakdown of costs for a 4,000-square-foot barndominium:

Expense    Cost per Sq. Ft.   Estimated Total

Slab and Shell  $35   $140,000

Basic Interior Finish   $150  $600,000

Luxury Interior Finish   $300   $1,200,000

The total cost depends on your vision for the space and the finishes you choose.

Why Build a Barndominium?

Barndominiums aren’t just a trend—they’re a practical, stylish option that’s perfect for Texas living. Here’s why people love them:

• Customizable: You can design your space exactly how you want, whether it’s for living, working, or storing equipment.
• Durable: Built with metal exteriors, barndominiums are tough enough to handle Texas weather.
• Cost-Effective: Compared to traditional homes, you’re often getting more space for your money.
• Unique Style: They offer a rustic charm that blends perfectly with modern finishes, giving you the best of both worlds.

What’s Next?

Thinking about building a barndominium? The first step is finding the right piece of property. After that, you’ll want to connect with us at Texas Time Realty, experts who understand the unique challenges of building in Texas, from handling rocky soil in the Hill Country to working with sandy ground down south.

If you’re in the San Antonio or Austin area, the team at Texas Time Realty is here to help. They can help you find the perfect spot and connect you with reliable metal building contractors to get your barndominium project off the ground.

Wrapping It Up

The cost of building a barndominium in Texas can vary, but having a general idea of the expenses involved makes the process much easier. Whether planning something simple or going all out with luxury finishes, there’s a barndominium option for every budget.

Have more questions or want help finding the right location? Reach out to Texas Time Realty today and start your journey toward building your dream barndominium!