If you are researching what’s the cost to build a custom home in Utah, you are not alone. Utah has become a destination for those seeking a personalized new construction home in a beautiful landscape. Whether you are a first-time home builder or a seasoned investor, understanding the average cost, material costs, and variables in the building process is essential to staying on budget—and on track—to your dream home.
This guide explores the total cost of a custom home in Utah, breaking down everything from square foot pricing and labor cost to permit costs, construction materials, and home construction loans.
Average Cost to Build a Custom Home in Utah
The average cost to build a home in Utah varies based on location, finishes, and design. Below are two common tiers:
- Builder-Grade Homes: $180–$280 per square foot
- Custom Homes: $280–$600+ per square foot
A 2,500 square foot custom home could range from $700,000 to $1.5 million. These numbers exclude land costs, permit costs, and closing costs. It is important to remember that a custom home builder offers more flexibility and control over your design, finishes, and construction cost—but with that freedom comes increased complexity in the construction process.
Total Cost by Home Size
| Home Size (sq ft) | Builder-Grade Estimate | Custom Home Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| 1,500 | $270,000 – $420,000 | $420,000 – $900,000 |
| 2,000 | $360,000 – $560,000 | $560,000 – $1,200,000 |
| 2,500 | $450,000 – $700,000 | $700,000 – $1,500,000 |
| 3,000 | $540,000 – $840,000 | $840,000 – $1,800,000 |
Your overall cost will depend on the size, complexity, and finishes you choose. High-end luxury builds in Park City can easily exceed $1,000 per square foot—especially for a Park City home with premium materials and mountain-modern finishes.
Construction Cost Breakdown
1. Land Acquisition
Land costs in Utah range widely—from $20,000 in rural areas to $500,000+ in high-demand markets. Choose your lot wisely to match your construction budget and access to utilities.
2. Site Preparation
Costs vary from $1,500 to $10,000 for excavation, grading, and utility hookups—critical steps in the building process.
3. Foundation
- Slab: $5–$14 per square foot
- Basement: $30–$40 per square foot
4. Framing
Expect to spend $11–$30 per square foot, depending on your floor plan complexity and construction materials.
5. Roofing
Roofing costs typically range from $10,000–$25,000, depending on roof type, pitch, and materials.
6. Siding, Windows & Doors
- Siding (fiber cement or vinyl): $10,000–$35,000
- Brick veneer: $8–$18 per square foot
- Windows & Doors: $6,500–$30,000+
7. Electrical, Plumbing, HVAC
- Labor costs for electrical: $9,000–$23,000
- Plumbing: $9,000–$15,000
- HVAC: $8,000–$18,000
8. Interior Finishes & Appliances
- Interior finishes: $50,000–$200,000+
- Appliances: $3,000–$7,700
Your selections heavily impact your construction cost, especially if you’re designing a luxury or custom layout.
9. Building Permit & Fees
Typical building permit fees range from $1,500–$5,000 depending on location and project scope. In higher-growth areas, permit wait times may also impact your home building timeline.
10. Professional Services
You’ll need a design team or home builder who can help develop your floor plans, manage construction, and source materials. Companies like Roots Builders, or others like Highland Custom Homes, offer complete guidance throughout the construction process.
Variables That Impact Custom Home Cost
- Design complexity: Detailed floor plans and unique architecture raise total cost
- Material cost: Prices on lumber, cement, and steel fluctuate monthly
- Labor cost: Scarcity of skilled trades can drive prices higher
- Construction loan: Many projects require a short-term construction loan or home construction loans
- Location: A Park City home or Salt Lake build costs more than in rural areas
If you’re comparing to an existing home or considering remodeling an older home, a new home build gives you control over layout, energy efficiency, and materials—but it requires diligent planning and a reliable choice builder to manage execution.
Regional Price Differences in Utah
- Salt Lake County: Premium demand and urban density increase building costs
- Utah County: Strong real estate growth with stable pricing
- Wasatch & Summit Counties: High-end luxury and vacation home builds
- Rural areas: Lower land costs, but may require off-grid solutions like septic or well installation
Cost-Saving Tips for Building a Custom Home
- Work with an experienced custom home builder or builder you trust
- Set a clear construction budget and add 10–15% for unexpected costs
- Use a mortgage calculator to assess long-term affordability
- Plan your new construction timeline around material and labor availability
- Choose cost-effective building materials that still meet your design goals
Ready to Build Your Custom Home in Utah?
Roots Builders is a Utah-based choice builder specializing in new construction and custom home projects that are tailored to your lifestyle, budget, and long-term goals. Whether you’re building a single family home, a luxury retreat, or your first new home, our team is here to guide you through the full construction process—from planning and financing to keys in hand.
Contact Roots Builders today to schedule your consultation and learn exactly what’s the cost to build a custom home in Utah—and how to make it work for you.
