Flooring Cost Calculator
Compare installed costs across all major flooring types. See how carpet stacks up against hardwood, LVP, laminate, and tile.
✓ Side-by-side cost comparison
✓ Material + labor pricing
✓ Multi-room estimates
Carpet installation calculator
Estimate total cost including materials, labor, and optional removal.
120.00 sq ft
| Carpet | $462.00 |
| Padding | $66.00 |
| Installation labor | $198.00 |
| Total | $726.00 |
Flooring Cost Comparison (2026)
Choosing flooring involves balancing upfront cost, durability, maintenance, and resale value. Here's how the major options compare on a per-square-foot installed basis:
Sheet Vinyl: $1–$2/sqft installed — cheapest, waterproof, 10–15 yr life
Carpet: $2–$8/sqft installed — warm, comfortable, 8–15 yr life
Laminate: $3–$5/sqft installed — scratch-resistant, 15–25 yr life
LVP (Luxury Vinyl Plank): $4–$7/sqft installed — waterproof, best value, 20+ yr life
Engineered Hardwood: $5–$10/sqft installed — real wood look, 20–30 yr life
Solid Hardwood: $6–$12/sqft installed — can be refinished, 50+ yr life
Porcelain Tile: $7–$15/sqft installed — extremely durable, 50+ yr life
Best Flooring by Room
- Bedrooms: Carpet (warmth, comfort, noise reduction) or LVP
- Living/dining rooms: Hardwood, LVP, or mid-grade carpet
- Kitchen/bathrooms: LVP or tile (waterproof required)
- Basement: LVP or sheet vinyl (moisture resistance essential)
- Stairs: Carpet (safety, noise) or hardwood (durability, aesthetics)
Example: 1,500 sqft Whole-House Estimate
All carpet: $3,000–$12,000
All LVP: $6,000–$10,500
Mixed (carpet bedrooms + LVP common areas): $5,000–$9,000
All hardwood: $9,000–$18,000
🏠 Resale Value Tip
Hardwood floors return 70–80% of their cost at resale. New carpet returns 25–40%. If you're selling within 5 years, LVP or engineered hardwood offers the best ROI.