An average commercial steel building costs between $10 and $20 per square foot, including building package (I-Beams, purlins, girts etc.), delivery, foundation and the cost of construction.
Since many retail & commercial buildings require additional finishing like insulation or façade customization, the cost may rise to $45 or $55 per square foot (SF).
Commercial Building Construction Cost (per sq ft)
| Construction Method | Material Cost | Labor Cost | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stud Frame | $20-35 | $4-8 | $24-43 |
| Tilt-Up | $18-30 | $4-8 | $22-38 |
| Steel Frame | $10-20 | $3-5 | $13-25 |
Other Costs
| Item | Approx. Cost |
|---|---|
| Delivery | 5-10% |
| Windows, doors etc. | 10-30% |
| Foundation | $5-10 / sq ft |
| Construction | $5-10 / sq ft |
* NB. Because there are so many variables involved (interior & exterior finish being the main contributors) with commercial buildings, price figures for the average code per square foot can vary dramatically. Local building regulations can influence the cost of a metal commercial building. For example, buildings in colder climates may need to handle a large volume of snow, while buildings in areas that are prone to hurricanes need to be resistant to high winds. Before signing a contract for a prefabricated steel commercial building, it pays to check into local building requirements and make sure the building will satisfy building codes.
