How much does it cost to build a house in Massachusetts?
Columbus, OH

How much does it cost to build a house in Massachusetts?

Columbus, OH

How much does it cost to build a house in Massachusetts?

$280 – $350cost per square foot (basic home)
$350 – $600cost per square foot (custom home)
$600,000 – $1,500,000average total cost (not including land)

Get free estimates for your project or view our cost guide below:

$280 – $350 cost per square foot (basic home)

$350 – $600 cost per square foot (custom home)

$600,000 – $1,500,000 average total cost (not including land)


Get free estimates for your project or view our cost guide below:
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Kristen Cramer
Written by
Kristen Cramer
Edited by
Jennifer Carlson
Fact-checked by
Tara Farmer

Average cost to build a house in Massachusetts

The average cost to build a house in Massachusetts is $600,000 to $1,500,000, not including the cost of the land, site prep, or permits. New home construction costs in Massachusetts range from $280 to $600 per square foot, depending on the location, house size and design, and the materials, finishes, and fixtures you select.

Average cost to build a house in Massachusetts*
House type & quality Average cost to build*
Basic builder-grade home $600,000 – $850,000
Custom home $850,000 – $1,500,000

*Not including the cost of the land or site prep

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Cost per square foot to build a house in Massachusetts

Building a basic builder-grade house in Massachusetts costs $280 to $350 per square foot. Builder-grade homes use standard finishes and offer limited customization options but meet the state's rigorous energy efficiency standards and building codes designed for New England's climate.

The average cost to build a custom home in Massachusetts ranges from $350 to $600 per square foot. Custom homes often incorporate high-end materials and upgraded features like hardwood floors and spa-like bathrooms.

Cost per square foot to build a house in Massachusetts
Home size
(square feet)
Basic builder-grade home* Custom home*
800 $224,000 – $280,000 $280,000 – $480,000
1,000 $280,000 – $350,000 $350,000 – $600,000
1,500 $420,000 – $525,000 $525,000 – $900,000
1,800 $504,000 – $630,000 $630,000 – $1,080,000
2,000 $560,000 – $700,000 $700,000 – $1,200,000
2,500 $700,000 – $875,000 $875,000 – $1,500,000
3,000 $840,000 – $1,050,000 $1,050,000 – $1,800,000
3,500 $980,000 – $1,225,000 $1,225,000 – $2,100,000
4,000 $1,120,000 – $1,400,000 $1,400,000 – $2,400,000

*Not including the cost of the land or site prep

What affects the cost to build a home in Massachusetts?

Location plays an important role in home construction costs in Massachusetts, with significantly higher costs in eastern Massachusetts compared to the western side of the state. The home's size, style, and layout, and your choice of materials and finishes also have a major impact on the total cost.

The state's four-season climate affects material choices and costs. Massachusetts experiences cold, snowy winters with temperatures often below freezing and hot humid summers.

Cost calculator to build a house in Massachusetts
Category Average cost*
General contractor 10% to 20% of construction budget
Getting utilities to the site $9,000 – $34,500+
Foundation $25,000 – $80,000
Framing $35,000 – $75,000
Roof $15,000 – $30,000+
Siding $12,000 – $45,000
Windows & doors $16,000 – $50,000
Electrical $12,000 – $25,000
Plumbing $12,000 – $25,000
HVAC $8,000 – $20,000
Insulation & drywall $15,000 – $45,000
Interior finishes & fixtures $75,000 – $250,000+
Appliances $3,100 – $10,000
Building permits $3,000 – $30,000+

*Including labor and materials; not including the cost of the land or site prep

Buying land in Massachusetts

Land prices in Massachusetts vary dramatically based on location and proximity to major cities. Rural land in western Massachusetts costs $15,000 to $25,000 per acre on average, while smaller lots in neighborhoods closer to Boston cost $200,000 to $800,000+. Premium lots in affluent communities like Wellesley or Cambridge can cost $1,000,000+.

Site preparation

Site preparation costs range from $12,000 to $35,000+ on average, with rocky soil and ledge requiring specialized excavation equipment. Many areas of Massachusetts have extensive rock formations that require blasting or hydraulic hammering, which can increase costs to $75,000 or more.

Getting utilities to the site

Getting utilities to the home site costs $9,000 to $34,500+, depending on the location and existing infrastructure. Urban and suburban areas have established utility networks that new homes can connect to for a fee, while rural properties require extensive power line extensions, well drilling, and septic systems.

Natural gas availability varies by region, with many rural areas requiring propane or oil heating systems.

Foundation

Foundation costs range from $25,000 to $80,000, with most Massachusetts homes requiring full basements due to the state's deep frost line (42" to 48" below grade) and the need for protected mechanical systems. The state's rocky terrain often increases foundation costs, particularly when rock ledge removal is required.

Framing

The cost to frame a house is $35,000 to $75,000 on average. Massachusetts building codes require framing capable of withstanding significant snow loads, particularly in western regions where annual snowfall can sometimes exceed 60 inches. Advanced framing techniques with enhanced thermal bridging reduction are increasingly common to meet the state's energy efficiency standards.

Roof

A new roof costs $15,000 to $30,000+, depending on the size and roofing material. Massachusetts homes require durable roofing materials and proper installation techniques due to the heavy snow loads and ice dam potential. Asphalt shingles remain popular, but metal roofing has gained favor for its snow-shedding capabilities and longevity.

Ice and water barrier installation is critical in Massachusetts, as building codes mandate enhanced protection in areas prone to ice dam formation. Many homeowners invest in heated roof cable systems or enhanced ventilation to prevent ice-related damage.

Siding

House siding costs $12,000 to $45,000, with material choices focused on durability against freeze-thaw cycles and moisture protection. Fiber cement siding has become increasingly popular due to its low maintenance requirements and excellent performance in New England's climate.

Traditional New England clapboard siding remains popular in historic districts, though modern composite materials offer similar aesthetics with reduced maintenance. Coastal areas require materials resistant to salt air and high humidity.

Windows & doors

High-performance windows and doors cost $16,000 to $50,000, representing a sizable portion of the construction budget due to Massachusetts' energy efficiency requirements. Triple-pane windows are increasingly common, particularly in custom homes.

Electrical

Electrical wiring costs $12,000 to $25,000+, with homes requiring robust electrical systems to handle heating loads, electric vehicle charging, and modern technology needs. Electric heat pumps and other high-efficiency electric systems increase a home's electrical service requirements.

Solar panel pre-wiring is increasingly common, with many builders including electrical preparations for future renewable energy installations to take advantage of Massachusetts' solar incentive programs.

Plumbing & HVAC

Plumbing installation costs $12,000 to $25,000. Plumbing for a new house includes water supply lines, drain lines, venting, and fixture connections. Freeze protection is crucial in Massachusetts, requiring careful attention to pipe placement and insulation in exterior walls and unheated spaces.

HVAC system installation costs $8,000 to $20,000+, with heating being the primary concern. High-efficiency heat pumps are increasingly popular due to state rebates and their ability to provide both heating and cooling. Many homes include backup heating systems for extreme cold periods when heat pump efficiency decreases.

Insulation & drywall

Insulation and drywall installation costs $15,000 to $45,000, with homes requiring high-performance insulation to meet Massachusetts' energy code requirements. Spray foam insulation is popular for its air sealing properties, while mineral wool and cellulose offer excellent thermal performance.

Interior finishing & fixtures

Interior finishes and fixtures range from $75,000 to $250,000+, making up a substantial portion of total construction costs. This category includes cabinets, countertops, flooring, lighting, trim work, and other elements.

Massachusetts homeowners often prioritize hardwood flooring for its traditional New England appeal, while tile and luxury vinyl options provide durability in high-moisture areas. Built-in storage solutions are popular to maximize space efficiency in the state's higher-cost housing market.

Appliances

New appliances cost $3,100 to $10,000 for standard packages, with high-end appliance suites reaching $25,000+. Energy-efficient models are particularly important given Massachusetts' relatively high electricity costs and environmental consciousness. State rebate programs often require ENERGY STAR appliances.

Labor costs to build a house in Massachusetts

Your builder will act as the general contractor, managing all aspects of the project for a fee of 10% to 20% of the construction budget. Your builder will hire and manage all the subcontractors involved in the project, as most reputable builders already have relationships with pros they prefer to work with in each industry.

Massachusetts' skilled labor shortage and high cost of living contribute to elevated construction wages. The table below lists the average hourly rates for many of the professionals involved in building a house.

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Labor costs to build a house in Massachusetts
Professional Labor cost per hour
Excavating contractors $100 – $300
Plumbers $75 – $150
Electricians $50 – $150
Roofers $40 – $100
Carpenters & framing contractors $40 – $100
Siding contractors $40 – $100
Drywall contractors $40 – $100
Painters $30 – $70
Flooring installers $20 – $70
HVAC installers $75 – $150
Landscapers $25 – $50

Cost to build a house in Massachusetts vs. other states

Compared to Massachusetts, the nationwide average cost to build a house is $180 to $300 per square foot for a basic builder-grade home with standard finishes and $300 to $450+ per square foot for a custom home with upgraded materials and finishes, not including the land or site prep.

For further comparison, consider the average cost to build a house in these other states:

FAQs about building a house in Massachusetts

Is it cheaper to buy or build a house in Massachusetts?

In most cases, it is cheaper to buy a house than build one in Massachusetts, but it depends on the home size, design, and features, and especially the location.

According to current real estate market data, the statewide median sale price for single-family homes in Massachusetts is $670,000, though prices vary significantly across the state. The median home price in western Massachusetts ranges from $320,000 to $415,000, while in Boston's affluent suburbs it exceeds $1,500,000.

How long does it take to build a house in Massachusetts?

Building a house in Massachusetts takes 12 to 18 months on average from breaking ground to completion, not including the design and permitting phase. Massachusetts' building season limitations and strict permitting requirements can extend the timeline by several months.

The construction timeline depends on the home size and design complexity, permit approval processes, and weather conditions. Complex custom homes in historic districts may require additional time for design review and compliance with local architectural regulations.

Can you build a tiny house in Massachusetts?

Yes, you can build a tiny house in Massachusetts, though regulations vary significantly by municipality. Many Massachusetts communities have minimum square footage requirements that can conflict with tiny house designs, making it important to research local zoning requirements before proceeding.

Some areas only allow tiny houses as accessory dwelling units (ADUs), while others permit them only in specific zoning districts. Tiny houses on wheels face additional challenges as they're often classified as recreational vehicles rather than permanent dwellings.

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The average cost to build a tiny house in Massachusetts is $55,000 to $150,000, not including the land or site prep.

Classic shingled house on Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Classic shingled house on Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Getting quotes from home builders in Massachusetts

Follow these tips to find the best Massachusetts builders near you:

  • Look for contractors who specialize in building the type of home you're interested in.

  • Read reviews for home builders and general contractors on HomeGuide and Google.

  • Meet with at least three builders to discuss your desired home size, features, and architectural style.

  • Tour each builder's model homes or ask to see a portfolio showing their custom homes.

  • Ask for references from previous clients.

  • Confirm the builder is licenses and insured for new home construction in Massachusetts.

  • Get a detailed contract outlining the specific materials, labor, costs, timeline, and milestones for your project.

Questions to ask house builders

Ask home builders these important questions before signing a contract:

  • How long have you been building homes in Massachusetts?

  • How many homes have you built within the state in the past five years?

  • Are you licensed and insured to build homes in Massachusetts?

  • Do you have any model homes or recently built homes I can tour?

  • Can you provide references with contact information from past clients?

  • Do you have architects or home designers on staff who will create the house plans?

  • How much input will I have on the choices for materials and fixtures?

  • Can you suggest ways to reduce costs without compromising the home's quality?

  • What's your typical timeline for completing a home like the one I want?

  • How do you communicate progress updates during construction?

  • What financing options do you offer? Do you work with specific lenders?

  • What warranty do you offer on your homes?

  • What is your process for the final walk-through and addressing any issues?