How Much Is Carpet Per Square Foot? A Complete Guide
Carpet is one of the most budget-friendly and cozy flooring options for homeowners—but prices can vary based on style, material, and labor. Whether you’re planning a single-room upgrade or a whole-home refresh, this guide breaks down how much carpet costs per square foot and what other factors to consider.
Average Carpet Cost Per Square Foot
On average, most carpets cost between $2 to $7 per square foot for the material alone. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Low-End Carpet: $0.75 – $2.50/sq ft (basic polyester or olefin)
- Mid-Range Carpet: $2.50 – $5.00/sq ft (textured plush, nylon blends)
- High-End Carpet: $5.00 – $12.00/sq ft (wool, designer brands, stain-resistant fibers)
Keep in mind this doesn’t include padding or installation.
Carpet Installation Cost Per Square Foot
Installation typically adds $1 to $3 per square foot depending on:
- Room shape and size
- Old flooring removal
- Furniture moving
- Type of carpet backing
So, if you’re budgeting for both carpet and install, expect to spend about $3 to $10 per square foot total.
How Much Carpet Do You Actually Need?
To estimate the amount of carpet you’ll need, follow this formula:
- Measure the length and width of each room (in feet)
- Multiply to get the square footage (L × W)
- Add 10% for waste, seams, or cutting adjustments
Example: A 12’ x 14’ bedroom = 168 sq ft. Add 10%, and you’ll need about 185 sq ft of carpet.
What Other Materials Do You Need?
Besides carpet itself, here’s what else you’ll need—and what it might cost:
- Carpet Padding: $0.50 – $1.25/sq ft
Important for comfort and extending carpet life - Tack Strips: ~$0.50 per linear foot
- Seam Tape & Glue: ~$0.25 – $0.75 per sq ft (for larger rooms or patterned carpet)
- Transition Strips: $10 – $30 each (for doorways and transitions to other floors)
Factors That Affect Carpet Pricing
- Fiber Type: Nylon is more durable and expensive than polyester
- Pile Height: Plush or high-pile carpet costs more than low-pile or Berber
- Stain Resistance: Treated carpets (like Scotchgard) add to the cost
- Warranty: Premium warranties increase the base price
Where to Save (and Where to Spend)
If you’re on a tight budget, consider spending more on a good pad and mid-range carpet instead of splurging on luxury fibers. A quality pad improves soundproofing and keeps even affordable carpet feeling great underfoot.
How Much to Carpet an Average Room?
Let’s break it down:
| Room Size | Material Only | With Install |
|---|---|---|
| 10’ x 12’ (120 sq ft) | $240 – $840 | $360 – $1,200 |
| 12’ x 14’ (168 sq ft) | $336 – $1,176 | $504 – $1,680 |
| Living Room (300 sq ft) | $600 – $2,100 | $900 – $3,000 |
Need Help Choosing the Right Carpet?
Check out our posts on:
- Whether you really need carpet padding
- The best options for busy households
- Replacing carpet before selling
Conclusion
When shopping for new carpet, think beyond the price tag. Between material, padding, installation, and room size, the cost per square foot can vary widely. Use this guide to estimate your budget—and feel confident choosing what works best for your home.
Need help measuring or planning your next flooring project?
Browse our carpet options or talk to our team for free advice and personalized quotes.