Construction

How Much Does It Cost to Build a 4 Story Apartment Building?

In this article, discover the cost to build a 4 story apartment building and the factors that impact it.
Togal.AI
10 minutes

How Much Does It Cost to Build a 4 Story Apartment Building? 

The average cost to build a 4-story apartment is between $4.7 million - $5.9 million, but many factors can impact the costs. For example, inflation affects material prices across cities and states. Moreover, some building styles are more intricate or complex than others, making them harder and more costly to build. With the many factors affecting the costs, the takeoffs and cost estimation of 4-story apartments can still be laborious. 

For large-scale 4-story apartment buildings with 50-100 units, seasoned estimators can easily spend weeks, sometimes months, doing the takeoff and cost estimation. 

Fortunately, with the use of AI estimating software, the takeoff process for large apartment buildings has become more streamlined. Major global construction leaders report that it helps them complete a week’s worth of takeoff in seconds with up to 99% accuracy. 

If you’re a general contractor or seasoned estimator looking to build your next 4-story apartment building project then this guide is for you. By the end of this blog, you’ll discover the cost to build a 4-story apartment, the many factors that influence it, along with an AI-powered tool that can help you streamline the cost estimation of your multi-story building project.

Disclaimer: The pricing stated here is based on average data from third-party research. Prices may still vary due to differences in seasonality and supplier.

Cost to Build a 4 Story Apartment Building Per Square Foot 

The cost to build a 4-story apartment is $156 - $240 per square foot. Thus, a 1,000 sq. ft apartment costs between $156,000 - $240,000. Meanwhile, a 10,000 sq. ft. apartment costs between $1.6 million - $2.4 million. 

For a more detailed look at how square footage impacts the cost to build a 4-story apartment, here are the low-end and high-end prices depending on the building size. 

4-Story Apartment Construction Costs Per Size

Apartment Size Low-End Costs High-End Costs
1,000 sq. ft. $156,000 $240,000
1,500 sq. ft. $234,000 $360,000
2,000 sq. ft. $312,000 $480,000
2,500 sq. ft. $390,000 $600,000
3,000 sq. ft. $468,000 $720,000
3,500 sq. ft. $546,000 $840,000
4,000 sq. ft. $624,000 $960,000
4,500 sq. ft. $702,000 $1.1 million
5,000 sq. ft. $780,000 $1.2 million
5,500 sq. ft. $858,000 $1.3 million
6,000 sq. ft. $936,000 $1.4 million
6,500 sq. ft. $1 million $1.6 million
7,000 sq. ft. $1.1 million $1.7 million
7,500 sq. ft. $1.2 million $1.8 million
8,000 sq. ft. $1.2 million $1.9 million
8,500 sq. ft. $1.3 million $2.0 million
9,000 sq. ft. $1.4 million $2.2 million
9,500 sq. ft. $1.5 million $2.3 million
10,000 sq. ft. $1.6 million $2.4 million
20,000 sq. ft. $3.1 million $4.8 million
30,000 sq. ft. $4.7 million $7.2million
40,000 sq. ft. $6.2 million $9.6 million
50,000 sq. ft. $7.8 million $12 million
60,000 sq. ft. $9.4 million $14.4million

Source: Fixr

Cost to Build a 4 Story Apartment Building By Number of Units 

In a four-story apartment, there can be 4 units (1 unit per level) or more than 100 units (25 units per level). An apartment with 100 units can easily cost 25 times more than an apartment with just four units. This demonstrates how a single factor, the number of units, can drastically affect construction costs.

Low-End and High-End Costs of an Apartment By Number of Units

Low-End and High-End Costs of an Apartment By Number of Units

Source: Fixr

However, while the number of units can be a quick way to estimate the construction costs, it’s not always accurate. Large apartments, such as a 4-story building, may have units that differ in size. Certain units might have more bedrooms, a different finish or interior design, and added amenities, which will surely affect the final construction price.

Apartment Building Cost Comparison: 4 Story vs. 3 Story vs. 5 Story 

As shown in the table below, buildings with more floors have a higher cost per square foot. Thus, a 3-story apartment with the same number of units is often cheaper than a 4-story and a 5-story apartment. The reason for this is that they typically require less structural support and can be constructed with wood and brick or stone veneers.

4 Story vs. 3 Story vs. 5 Story Apartment
Number of Story Description Low-End Cost High-End Cost
3 A 3 story apartment building is ideal for families and senior living. It is often found in multiples within a large complex. $90 per sq. ft. $240 per sq. ft.
4 The construction costs are higher because of the extra structural support needed. This type of apartment can also be found as part of similar-sized buildings in a large complex. $156 per sq. ft. $240 per sq. ft.
5 Because of the added units, materials, and structural support, the cost to build this apartment is significantly higher than the other two. It's often a much larger building that fits as many units in less space. $180 per sq. ft. $270 per sq. ft.

Source: Fixr

4 Story Apartment Building Costs: Other Factors to Consider

While a 4-story apartment typically costs between $4.7 million - $5.9 million, it can become significantly cheaper or more expensive depending on the cost of land, location, materials, labor, and amenities available. Read further to learn more about each factor below.

Cost of Land 

The first step to building a 4-story apartment building is buying land. Depending on the location, land can cost as low as $1,558 per acre or as high as $196,410 per acre.

Listed below are the different states in alphabetical order along with their average land cost per acre. But keep in mind that these numbers only represent the average costs of land. They do not take into account if these lands have access to water, electricity, or an acceptable commute.

Cost to Buy Land Per State

State Avg. Cost Per Acre
Arizona $4,328
Arkansas $6,739
California $39,092
Colorado $6,462
Connecticut $128,824
Delaware $57,692
Florida $28,961
Georgia $14,242
Idaho $3,435
Illinois $23,492
Indiana $16,903
Iowa $6,590
Kansas $4,220
Kentucky $7,209
Louisiana $12,908
Maine $6,142
Maryland $75,429
Massachusetts $102,214
Michigan $23,765
Minnesota $8,191
Mississippi $5,565
Missouri $7,233
Montana $2,283
State Avg. Cost Per Acre
Nebraska $2,936
Nevada $2,116
New Hampshire $19,840
New Jersey $196,410
New Mexico $1,931
New York $41,314
North Carolina $16,230
North Dakota $2,517
Ohio $32,077
Oklahoma $7,364
Oregon $6,503
Pennsylvania $31,923
Rhode Island $133,730
South Carolina $17,610
South Dakota $2,135
Tennessee $14,411
Texas $7,542
Utah $4,664
Vermont $7,439
Virginia $21,921
Washington $16,752
West Virginia $10,537
Wisconsin $9,924
Wyoming $1,558

Source: Zippia

Demolition Costs

If the lot contains an existing property that can't be converted, demolition costs must be considered. Depending on the property size and the building materials used, it can be as low as $3,000 and as high as $45,000, but the typical range is between $7,500 - $15,000. 

Properties that have asbestos will require a licensed hazardous waste contractor. Asbestos removal is typically between $1,163 - $3,050.

Building Permits 

Building a 4-story apartment building requires permits to ensure they’re done under current building codes. While typically costing around $1,200 - $2,000, it’s crucial to consult local county officials prior to the project for more accurate pricing and to determine which permits are needed.

Material Costs

It’s more accurate to look at material costs per unit because large apartments with 20+ units may not have uniform sizes and designs. Some rooms may have custom tilework and complex cabinetry, which will increase the material costs.

Below are some of the common materials needed to build a 4-story apartment along with their prices per unit.

Material Costs Per Unit

Material Costs Per Unit

Source: HomeAdvisor

  • Drywall 

The wall or ceiling of an apartment is often made from drywall, which provides an extra layer of protection from the outdoors.

  • Flooring 

For improved comfort, soundproofing, and liquid resistance, vinyl flooring seems to be a great choice for apartment floors.

In an apartment building, the frame is often composed of beams, slabs, and columns to support the added weight to the structure.

  • Windows 

It is important to have windows to improve ventilation and allow natural light into the home. When it comes to small apartment units, big windows can give the illusion of more space.

  • Bathroom 

Typical bathroom construction costs include plumbing, showers, countertops, and lighting fixtures.

  • Kitchen 

Kitchen construction includes custom cabinetry, unique tilework, and plumbing works that can quickly increase costs.

Other Material Costs to Consider

  • Foundation 

 Foundations are typically built with concrete, stone, and steel to ensure the apartment's stability. It typically costs $5 to $37 per square foot.

  • Roofing 

Flat roofs are great for larger buildings, such as an apartment, with PVC being the most popular roofing material. Roofing typically costs $8,500.

Labor Costs 

Labor costs are often influenced by the general contractor’s buying power, the apartment’s location, and the size and complexity of the building. Here are some of the labor costs to consider when building a 4-story apartment. 

Construction Professional Description Rate
Architect Designs apartments that are safe, functional, and aesthetically pleasing. $125–$250 per hour
Carpenter Builds and installs structures and other fixtures made from wood and other materials as needed $35 – $100 per hour
Electrician Prepares, assembles, and installs electrical wiring for the apartment. $50–$100 per hour
General Contractor Manages the construction project, conducts cost estimation, provides materials and workers, and employs subcontractors. 10%–20% of the total project
HVAC Technician Installs air quality and temperature systems in the hospital $50–$150 per hour
Interior Designer Creates optimal furniture placement, selects decorative items, and makes indoor spaces functional, safe, and aesthetically pleasing. $50–$200 per hour
Landscape Designer Modifies and designs landscapes, including parks and gardens, to become more functional and aesthetically pleasing. $50–$150 per hour
Painter Applies paint, stain, and coatings to walls, ceilings, and fixtures of the apartment $20–$50 per hour
Plumber Installs and maintains pipes, and other plumbing equipment for wastewater disposal and water distribution $45–$200 per hour

Source: HomeAdvisor and HomeGuide.

Cost of Additional Amenities 

The following are the costs and descriptions of additional features and amenities you can add to your 4-story apartment. They can help improve the comfort of the apartment residents while bumping up renting costs.

Additional Features and Amenities Description Cost
Interior furnishings Makes moving easy for potential tenants, especially if they don't have existing furniture. $4,650 per unit.
Parking Lot Provides a parking area for the residents' vehicles. Costs may vary depending on whether the lot is covered. $3 - $6 per sq. ft.
Security System Helps maximize security through automated cameras and alarms. $700
Swimming Pool Provides exercise opportunities that can improve the well-being of the apartment residents. $19,833 - $49,990

Speed-Up the Cost Estimation of 4-Story Apartment Buildings with Togal.AI

Multi-story apartments are great for saving space and being compact. They need less land, less foundation, and less roofing, resulting in lower costs. 

With the scarcity and value of land increasing, low-rise and mid-rise apartments are becoming more popular in cities and developing urban areas. Consequently, the increase in its demand means more multi-story apartment projects for general contractors to cost-estimate. 

Want to speed up the takeoff and cost-estimation process of your 4-story apartment project? Leverage our AI estimating software, Togal.AI. With Togal.AI, you can complete takeoffs in seconds with 99% accuracy. 

Experience how Togal.AI can help finish takeoffs in seconds and increase the profitability of your 4-story apartment construction project by booking a free demo. A dedicated product manager will help you explore how easy it is to integrate Togal.AI into your workflow.

Book a Demo of Togal.AI

Get Started
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On-boarding support

How Much Does It Cost to Build a 4 Story Apartment Building?

February 2, 2023
Togal.AI
10 minutes

How Much Does It Cost to Build a 4 Story Apartment Building? 

The average cost to build a 4-story apartment is between $4.7 million - $5.9 million, but many factors can impact the costs. For example, inflation affects material prices across cities and states. Moreover, some building styles are more intricate or complex than others, making them harder and more costly to build. With the many factors affecting the costs, the takeoffs and cost estimation of 4-story apartments can still be laborious. 

For large-scale 4-story apartment buildings with 50-100 units, seasoned estimators can easily spend weeks, sometimes months, doing the takeoff and cost estimation. 

Fortunately, with the use of AI estimating software, the takeoff process for large apartment buildings has become more streamlined. Major global construction leaders report that it helps them complete a week’s worth of takeoff in seconds with up to 99% accuracy. 

If you’re a general contractor or seasoned estimator looking to build your next 4-story apartment building project then this guide is for you. By the end of this blog, you’ll discover the cost to build a 4-story apartment, the many factors that influence it, along with an AI-powered tool that can help you streamline the cost estimation of your multi-story building project.

Disclaimer: The pricing stated here is based on average data from third-party research. Prices may still vary due to differences in seasonality and supplier.

Cost to Build a 4 Story Apartment Building Per Square Foot 

The cost to build a 4-story apartment is $156 - $240 per square foot. Thus, a 1,000 sq. ft apartment costs between $156,000 - $240,000. Meanwhile, a 10,000 sq. ft. apartment costs between $1.6 million - $2.4 million. 

For a more detailed look at how square footage impacts the cost to build a 4-story apartment, here are the low-end and high-end prices depending on the building size. 

4-Story Apartment Construction Costs Per Size

Apartment Size Low-End Costs High-End Costs
1,000 sq. ft. $156,000 $240,000
1,500 sq. ft. $234,000 $360,000
2,000 sq. ft. $312,000 $480,000
2,500 sq. ft. $390,000 $600,000
3,000 sq. ft. $468,000 $720,000
3,500 sq. ft. $546,000 $840,000
4,000 sq. ft. $624,000 $960,000
4,500 sq. ft. $702,000 $1.1 million
5,000 sq. ft. $780,000 $1.2 million
5,500 sq. ft. $858,000 $1.3 million
6,000 sq. ft. $936,000 $1.4 million
6,500 sq. ft. $1 million $1.6 million
7,000 sq. ft. $1.1 million $1.7 million
7,500 sq. ft. $1.2 million $1.8 million
8,000 sq. ft. $1.2 million $1.9 million
8,500 sq. ft. $1.3 million $2.0 million
9,000 sq. ft. $1.4 million $2.2 million
9,500 sq. ft. $1.5 million $2.3 million
10,000 sq. ft. $1.6 million $2.4 million
20,000 sq. ft. $3.1 million $4.8 million
30,000 sq. ft. $4.7 million $7.2million
40,000 sq. ft. $6.2 million $9.6 million
50,000 sq. ft. $7.8 million $12 million
60,000 sq. ft. $9.4 million $14.4million

Source: Fixr

Cost to Build a 4 Story Apartment Building By Number of Units 

In a four-story apartment, there can be 4 units (1 unit per level) or more than 100 units (25 units per level). An apartment with 100 units can easily cost 25 times more than an apartment with just four units. This demonstrates how a single factor, the number of units, can drastically affect construction costs.

Low-End and High-End Costs of an Apartment By Number of Units

Low-End and High-End Costs of an Apartment By Number of Units

Source: Fixr

However, while the number of units can be a quick way to estimate the construction costs, it’s not always accurate. Large apartments, such as a 4-story building, may have units that differ in size. Certain units might have more bedrooms, a different finish or interior design, and added amenities, which will surely affect the final construction price.

Apartment Building Cost Comparison: 4 Story vs. 3 Story vs. 5 Story 

As shown in the table below, buildings with more floors have a higher cost per square foot. Thus, a 3-story apartment with the same number of units is often cheaper than a 4-story and a 5-story apartment. The reason for this is that they typically require less structural support and can be constructed with wood and brick or stone veneers.

4 Story vs. 3 Story vs. 5 Story Apartment
Number of Story Description Low-End Cost High-End Cost
3 A 3 story apartment building is ideal for families and senior living. It is often found in multiples within a large complex. $90 per sq. ft. $240 per sq. ft.
4 The construction costs are higher because of the extra structural support needed. This type of apartment can also be found as part of similar-sized buildings in a large complex. $156 per sq. ft. $240 per sq. ft.
5 Because of the added units, materials, and structural support, the cost to build this apartment is significantly higher than the other two. It's often a much larger building that fits as many units in less space. $180 per sq. ft. $270 per sq. ft.

Source: Fixr

4 Story Apartment Building Costs: Other Factors to Consider

While a 4-story apartment typically costs between $4.7 million - $5.9 million, it can become significantly cheaper or more expensive depending on the cost of land, location, materials, labor, and amenities available. Read further to learn more about each factor below.

Cost of Land 

The first step to building a 4-story apartment building is buying land. Depending on the location, land can cost as low as $1,558 per acre or as high as $196,410 per acre.

Listed below are the different states in alphabetical order along with their average land cost per acre. But keep in mind that these numbers only represent the average costs of land. They do not take into account if these lands have access to water, electricity, or an acceptable commute.

Cost to Buy Land Per State

State Avg. Cost Per Acre
Arizona $4,328
Arkansas $6,739
California $39,092
Colorado $6,462
Connecticut $128,824
Delaware $57,692
Florida $28,961
Georgia $14,242
Idaho $3,435
Illinois $23,492
Indiana $16,903
Iowa $6,590
Kansas $4,220
Kentucky $7,209
Louisiana $12,908
Maine $6,142
Maryland $75,429
Massachusetts $102,214
Michigan $23,765
Minnesota $8,191
Mississippi $5,565
Missouri $7,233
Montana $2,283
State Avg. Cost Per Acre
Nebraska $2,936
Nevada $2,116
New Hampshire $19,840
New Jersey $196,410
New Mexico $1,931
New York $41,314
North Carolina $16,230
North Dakota $2,517
Ohio $32,077
Oklahoma $7,364
Oregon $6,503
Pennsylvania $31,923
Rhode Island $133,730
South Carolina $17,610
South Dakota $2,135
Tennessee $14,411
Texas $7,542
Utah $4,664
Vermont $7,439
Virginia $21,921
Washington $16,752
West Virginia $10,537
Wisconsin $9,924
Wyoming $1,558

Source: Zippia

Demolition Costs

If the lot contains an existing property that can't be converted, demolition costs must be considered. Depending on the property size and the building materials used, it can be as low as $3,000 and as high as $45,000, but the typical range is between $7,500 - $15,000. 

Properties that have asbestos will require a licensed hazardous waste contractor. Asbestos removal is typically between $1,163 - $3,050.

Building Permits 

Building a 4-story apartment building requires permits to ensure they’re done under current building codes. While typically costing around $1,200 - $2,000, it’s crucial to consult local county officials prior to the project for more accurate pricing and to determine which permits are needed.

Material Costs

It’s more accurate to look at material costs per unit because large apartments with 20+ units may not have uniform sizes and designs. Some rooms may have custom tilework and complex cabinetry, which will increase the material costs.

Below are some of the common materials needed to build a 4-story apartment along with their prices per unit.

Material Costs Per Unit

Material Costs Per Unit

Source: HomeAdvisor

  • Drywall 

The wall or ceiling of an apartment is often made from drywall, which provides an extra layer of protection from the outdoors.

  • Flooring 

For improved comfort, soundproofing, and liquid resistance, vinyl flooring seems to be a great choice for apartment floors.

In an apartment building, the frame is often composed of beams, slabs, and columns to support the added weight to the structure.

  • Windows 

It is important to have windows to improve ventilation and allow natural light into the home. When it comes to small apartment units, big windows can give the illusion of more space.

  • Bathroom 

Typical bathroom construction costs include plumbing, showers, countertops, and lighting fixtures.

  • Kitchen 

Kitchen construction includes custom cabinetry, unique tilework, and plumbing works that can quickly increase costs.

Other Material Costs to Consider

  • Foundation 

 Foundations are typically built with concrete, stone, and steel to ensure the apartment's stability. It typically costs $5 to $37 per square foot.

  • Roofing 

Flat roofs are great for larger buildings, such as an apartment, with PVC being the most popular roofing material. Roofing typically costs $8,500.

Labor Costs 

Labor costs are often influenced by the general contractor’s buying power, the apartment’s location, and the size and complexity of the building. Here are some of the labor costs to consider when building a 4-story apartment. 

Construction Professional Description Rate
Architect Designs apartments that are safe, functional, and aesthetically pleasing. $125–$250 per hour
Carpenter Builds and installs structures and other fixtures made from wood and other materials as needed $35 – $100 per hour
Electrician Prepares, assembles, and installs electrical wiring for the apartment. $50–$100 per hour
General Contractor Manages the construction project, conducts cost estimation, provides materials and workers, and employs subcontractors. 10%–20% of the total project
HVAC Technician Installs air quality and temperature systems in the hospital $50–$150 per hour
Interior Designer Creates optimal furniture placement, selects decorative items, and makes indoor spaces functional, safe, and aesthetically pleasing. $50–$200 per hour
Landscape Designer Modifies and designs landscapes, including parks and gardens, to become more functional and aesthetically pleasing. $50–$150 per hour
Painter Applies paint, stain, and coatings to walls, ceilings, and fixtures of the apartment $20–$50 per hour
Plumber Installs and maintains pipes, and other plumbing equipment for wastewater disposal and water distribution $45–$200 per hour

Source: HomeAdvisor and HomeGuide.

Cost of Additional Amenities 

The following are the costs and descriptions of additional features and amenities you can add to your 4-story apartment. They can help improve the comfort of the apartment residents while bumping up renting costs.

Additional Features and Amenities Description Cost
Interior furnishings Makes moving easy for potential tenants, especially if they don't have existing furniture. $4,650 per unit.
Parking Lot Provides a parking area for the residents' vehicles. Costs may vary depending on whether the lot is covered. $3 - $6 per sq. ft.
Security System Helps maximize security through automated cameras and alarms. $700
Swimming Pool Provides exercise opportunities that can improve the well-being of the apartment residents. $19,833 - $49,990

Speed-Up the Cost Estimation of 4-Story Apartment Buildings with Togal.AI

Multi-story apartments are great for saving space and being compact. They need less land, less foundation, and less roofing, resulting in lower costs. 

With the scarcity and value of land increasing, low-rise and mid-rise apartments are becoming more popular in cities and developing urban areas. Consequently, the increase in its demand means more multi-story apartment projects for general contractors to cost-estimate. 

Want to speed up the takeoff and cost-estimation process of your 4-story apartment project? Leverage our AI estimating software, Togal.AI. With Togal.AI, you can complete takeoffs in seconds with 99% accuracy. 

Experience how Togal.AI can help finish takeoffs in seconds and increase the profitability of your 4-story apartment construction project by booking a free demo. A dedicated product manager will help you explore how easy it is to integrate Togal.AI into your workflow.

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