How much does it cost to build a carport?

How much does it cost to build a carport?

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.

How Much Does It Cost to Build a Carport?

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.

Labor Cost to Build a Carport

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:

  • Carpenters
  • Welders,
  • Concrete workers
  • General laborers

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:

  • Prefabricated Carport Kits: Since most of the assembly is pre-engineered, labor costs are typically lower for these. The cost of assembly labor could range from $500 to $1,500.
  • Custom-Built Carports: These cost between $2,000 and $5,000+ in labor because they need more skilled workers for roofing, framing, and possibly custom finishes.

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.

How to Build a Carport?

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:

  1. Before starting any construction, you'll need to choose the size of the carport, which is commonly 12x20 feet for one car and 20x20 feet for two, and then select the materials you want, such as metal or wood.
  2. Obtain Permits: In this stage, you need to research the local zoning and permit requirements from your local municipality. This can cost $100 to $500.
  3. Site Preparation: This involves leveling the ground, clearing the area, and possibly pouring footings for the posts or a concrete slab. The cost for site preparation is about $1,500 to $3,500.
  4. Framing: this includes placing the beams and structural posts that will hold up the roof. The majority of the skilled labor and structural materials will be used here. It is wise to use metal for durability and wood for its aesthetics. Generally, you have to spend $400 to $1,500 for materials and $400 to $1,000 for labor.
  5. Roofing: Installing the roofing material, which could involve polycarbonate sheets, asphalt shingles, or metal panels, can cost $500 to $2,000 for materials and $300 to $800 for labor.
  6. Finishing Touches: This includes adding siding, painting, installing gutters, or running electrical wiring for lighting.
  7. Inspection and Approval: After finishing the construction, professional inspectors should approve the building according to the local regulations.

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.


Cost to Build a Carport vs Garage

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.

  • Carport Cost: As mentioned before, carports usually cost between $2,000 and $20,000. They are faster to build, provide basic protection from the sun, rain, and hail, and typically don't need complex permits or large foundations like a fully enclosed building.
  • Garage Cost: Building a garage requires a larger financial commitment; the average cost for a single or double-car garage is between $15,000 and $50,000+. A garage can increase the value of your house and provide enclosed, safe storage as well as improved protection from bad weather. It does, however, require larger foundations, walls, a complete roof, doors, and often more complex utility installations.


Cost Comparison Table (Single-Car, 12x20 feet)


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.



Cost to Build a Wood Carport

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:

  • Materials: $1,500-$4,000 for a single-car carport (12x20 feet).
  • Pressure-treated pine is more affordable and durable, costing $1,500-$2,500.
  • Cedar or redwood, which are more attractive and higher-quality materials, are used, so that it would cost $2,500 to $4,000.
  • Labor: They usually work 30 to 50 hours at a rate of $20 to $50/hour. It would cost $800 to $2,500 overall.
  • Permits: Obtaining the necessary permits can cost $100 to $500, depending on your location.
  • Concrete foundation: You should expect something around $1,000 to $2,500 for the foundation cost
  • Sealing regions with high humidity might require extra sealing, which can cost around $300.

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.