The Cost to Build a Church can range anywhere from a hundred thousand dollars to a million dollars! The expense may seem daunting when you think about it, but it becomes more comprehensible as you break it down. It is better to get help from professional cost estimators to make a practical and accurate budget for you.
A Cost Estimating Company can map out the entire construction project to the dot. A detailed cost budget will help you locate resources effectively and ensure you don’t go overboard with the expense. Building a church is a difficult task, but cost overruns can make it even worse!
Elements Impacting the Cost to Build a Church
The cost of building a church can vary significantly from project to project. Multiple factors influence the price, such as:
Location
It is common knowledge that prices can fluctuate according to the location. The price of material, land, and labor are all impacted by the geographical location. Urban areas are going to cost you more than rural areas.
Size of the Building
The cost to build a megachurch will be higher than a small-sized church. Prices vary significantly according to square footage. This is because more materials are going to be needed for it.
Type of Materials Used
High-end materials are going to cost you more. Moreover, the use of customized materials will raise the price. You can manage the cost of the church by choosing the most suitable material.
Unique Features of a Church
Church building cost is also impacted by the unique features of a church. Churches require specific structures such as a sanctuary, choir loft, baptistry, classrooms, etc. They will add to the cost. Decide which features to add to your church and consult a cost professional.
So, make sure that you take these factors into account while preparing a church building budget. If you wish to control the expenses, you can achieve it using cost effective strangles related to these elements.
The Cost to Build a Church on average
Let’s assess the church construction cost according to square footage.
The average church construction cost per square foot ranges from $150 to $400. The more you move towards high-end churches, the more the price will increase. On a minimum its going to cost you $150 per square foot.
- The cost to build a small church, which is around 5000 square feet is going to cost you $750,000- $2 million.
- A medium-sized church, i.e., 10,000 square feet, will require $1.5 million to $4 million.
- Finally, a large church (20,000) square feet ranges from $3 million to $8 million.
Builders usually go for a 500-seat church, between medium to large-sized churches (10,000 to 15,000 sq feet). The cost to build a 500-seat church is about 1.5 million dollars to 6 million dollars.
Breaking Down the Cost to Build a Church
We have given you a rough estimated range for the money required to build a church. Let’s break down that cost into smaller categories so you can have a better understanding of the expenses.
Purchasing the Land and Site Excavation
The price of the land is going to depend upon the scale of the church as well as the location. Larger-sized churches are going to cost more. The price is significant. Cities such as New York or Los Angeles are going to cost you around $1 million to 10$ million per acre. At the same time, the cost in smaller towns can range anywhere from $500,000 to $3 million per acre.
Other than that, you will need to account for excavation and landscaping money. Site preparation costs about $2 to $5 per square foot.
How Material Impacts the Cost to Build a Church
The quantity of material depends upon the size of the project. Large scale projects will need more materials thus increasing the cost. Similarly, premium or uncommon materials cost you more than standard building materials. Higher quality material, although expensive, will require less maintenance over time. It can also enhance the visual appeal of the church. Standard building materials are ideal if you are looking for low cost church building plans.
MEP System in a Church
The MEP system is one of the fundamental structures of a church. It encompasses.
Electrical System
For Electrical Estimation, you must include lighting, power distribution, wire, circuits, emergency systems, and sound systems.
Plumbing System
This includes pipes, pumps, water heaters, sanitary components, and baptismal fonts.
Mechanical System
The mechanical system of a church includes air conditioning units, ventilation, ductwork, furnaces, and boilers.
Interior and Exterior Finishings
After the structure has been built, it’s time for finishing. The price of exterior finishing can vary. The common materials chosen are brick and stone. Some churches are also using vinyl or aluminum sidings. Brick and stone cost more as more labor is required for their installation. Vinyl or aluminum sidings are less expensive, so they are not as durable.
Interior finishing includes flooring, walls, ceilings, seating, sound system, and other elements. The cost to build a church will also include stuff like paint, drywall, wallpaper, wood paneling, stained glass, communion table, etc. So, the church design build also plays a paramount role in determining the budget.
Final Thoughts
Church building is a noble task, but it comes with its fair share of hurdles and obstacles. It is recommended to opt for a professional contractor or an estimator to make a predicted budget for you. A cost budget can improve the flow of the construction process. It will also give you the time to relax and focus on other construction aspects. The cost to build a church can be managed efficiently with the help of a precise cost budget.
