Adding a carport to your home is a cost-effective way to protect your vehicle from the elements while providing extra storage space and value to your home; you can even create a shaded outdoor living space. For U.S. homeowners looking to add this structure, understanding the cost to build a carport is the first crucial step.
Based on factors such as size, materials, and labor, you can typically expect the carport build cost to range from $2,000 to $10,000 for a single-car carport, which is around 12*20 feet, and $4,000 to $20,000 for a double-car carport, which is approximately 20*20 feet.
In this guide, we will provide you with the necessary information regarding the cost to build a carport, breaking down labor, materials, and construction costs. Note that the prices we mention in this text are average and based on U.S. 2025 market trends. For a more accurate estimate, we recommend using our construction cost calculator or consulting with professionals in this industry.
A carport's total cost depends on several factors. However, the vast majority of people typically spend between $2,000 and $10,000 on a professionally installed, standard-sized carport. The budget can be significantly increased by using larger dimensions, premium materials, or customized designs. The average costs are broken down here according to common materials and types:
For a typical installation, these costs usually cover both labor and materials. The final cost will increase if there is a need for extensive site preparation, major electrical work, or special design elements. You can use an online cost calculator for an accurate estimate.
The labor cost, which usually accounts for 30% to 50% of the project's total cost, varies by location, complexity, and expertise, and is the most essential portion of building a carport. The following groups' wages account for the labor cost:
For a standard carport installation, the labor rate is usually $20-$50/hour. The total labor cost would be somewhere between $800 and $3,000 for a 12*20 single-car carport. Below is a labor cost breakdown that can help you understand each section’s cost.
Another factor that can affect the labor cost of building a carport is the complexity of the design:
Your location and site accessibility will also influence labor costs, as well as whether you require specialized services such as extensive concrete pouring or intricate electrical wiring. Consider construction temp services for temporary construction assistance.
Building a carport involves several steps, from planning and obtaining permits to construction and finishing. Understanding the fundamental steps involved in building a carport can help you plan for costs and timelines, regardless of whether you decide to do it yourself or hire experts. Building a carport typically involves several steps:
Some homeowners with extensive DIY experience might take on a prefabricated kit, but to guarantee structural integrity and code compliance, it is best to leave complicated custom designs or builds involving heavy machinery to professionals.
For many homeowners, comparing the cost to build a carport or a garage is essential for considering vehicle protection. While both serve a similar purpose, their costs and benefits differ significantly. Generally, carports are cheaper than garages due to their design and simpler construction. However, you should know that garages offer more security and other options.
The decision between a garage and a carport is based on what you want in terms of protection, safety needs, and budget limitations. If you are thinking about building a garage, you can use a garage construction cost calculator to find out the cost to build a garage.
Wood carports offer more customization and aesthetic appeal. However, it might require more maintenance compared to metal or aluminum. The cost to build a wood carpet often ranges from $2,500 to $8,000 based on the wood type, design, and finishing. Here is a cost breakdown of building a wood carport:
The type of wood, the complexity of the framing, the roofing material, and any extra features like built-in storage or decorative accents all impact the cost of a wood carport. Wood carports can provide better aesthetics and more customization options than simple metal kits, but they may also cost more.