Installing new carpet can enhance the comfort of your home and give it a fresh look at an affordable price. On average, carpet installation costs range from $3–$11 per square foot. Your final project can vary based on several cost factors including material, carpet style, and project labor. Our guide provides a breakdown of the typical factors that affect carpet installation costs and offers suggestions for keeping expenses low when upgrading your home’s flooring.

Note: Cost data in this article was sourced from Angi and HomeAdvisor.

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What Factors Affect Carpet Installation Cost?

The cost of carpet installation ranges between $3 and $11 per square foot and depends on factors such as material, padding, and labor. Carpet material prices range from $1 per square foot for polyester to $20 per square foot for luxurious wool options. Padding costs about $0.75–$2 per square foot, and you’ll pay $0.50–$1 per square foot for labor.

Carpet Cost by Material

The carpet material plays the most significant role in determining the cost per square foot. A high-end carpet will usually cost the same to install as a lower-quality carpet. The exception to that rule is carpet tiles, which are squares of synthetic material that are self-adhesive or can be glued to the floor. These are quicker and easier to install than whole-room carpets and will reduce labor costs. 

Here’s an overview of popular carpet styles below:

• Polyester: Polyester carpets are available in a wide range of colors and are resistant to fading, wear and tear, mold, mildew, and allergens.
• Polypropylene (or olefin): Polypropylene, also known as olefin, is a budget-friendly option. Although it is resistant to fading and staining, it isn’t particularly durable or easy to clean.
• Nylon: Nylon carpet is a popular choice in the United States due to its durability and resistance to mold and mildew. However, it may feel less soft than other types and is prone to static buildup.
• Acrylic: Acrylic is less popular than other synthetic materials due to pilling and lack of durability, but it is hypoallergenic and resistant to common carpet pests.
• Triexta: Triexta is gaining popularity as a more eco-friendly version of nylon, since it’s partially made from plant materials. While it provides the same durability and stain resistance as nylon, it is comparatively more expensive.
• Sisal: Sisal, a durable natural fiber made from the agave plant, is ideal for high-traffic areas despite its rough texture. Though more expensive than synthetic options, its durability makes it worth the investment.
• Wool: Wool carpet is comfortable, durable, and eco-friendly. However, it requires special care to clean and is prone to mold and mildew. As a natural fiber, it is more expensive than synthetic alternatives.

Cost Per Square Foot of Carpet Material

Below is a breakdown of carpet material costs per square foot. 

Carpet Cost by Style

The individual names assigned to types of carpet can be confusing since they overlap and don’t always have clear definitions, even within the industry. For example, velvet, plush, and saxony carpet may all refer to the same style of twisted cut pile, though some sources say plush has a lower height than saxony. Similarly, shag and frieze carpets are both taller cut pile carpets, but they may be twisted or upright. Here are some general terms to know when considering carpet styles:

• Berber carpet: This is a loop carpet with a low pile. It is dense and stain-resistant, making it a good choice for hallways, stairs, and other high-traffic areas.
• Cut pile: This carpet style is relatively easy to clean since there are no loops to trap dirt and debris. However, its exposed ends are prone to fraying over time.
• Low-pile carpet: This carpet stands up better to foot traffic than high pile, but it doesn’t provide as much cushion underfoot.
• Cut-and-loop: This pile variation combines exposed strands with fiber loops to create a unique texture. This style also hides footprints and vacuum marks well, though it’s usually more expensive than other varieties.

Different carpet materials are better suited to certain styles. For example, nylon is versatile enough for several styles, but olefin carpet is usually low-pile because it’s inherently less durable. Material is a bigger determinant of cost than carpet type. Wool will always be more expensive than polyester carpet regardless of cut or style.

Carpet Style Cost by Square Foot

The table below outlines the average cost per square foot of different carpet styles.

Cost by Room Size and Shape

The more floor space you have to cover, the more expensive materials and installation will be. Carpet is sold by the square foot or square yard, and if you have to cut it to fit a room with an unusual shape, you may have some carpet left over. Similarly, stairs and unusually shaped areas will cost more in labor to carpet.

Cost of Carpet Padding

Carpet can be installed directly onto the existing floor, but most homes first lay down some type of carpet padding to make it more comfortable to walk on and to provide extra insulation. However, thicker isn’t always better, and thick padding may not work with all styles of carpet. Padding will typically add $0.75–$2 per square foot to the carpet, although some types of carpet, such as peel-and-stick tiles, may have padding already attached. 

Labor Cost for Carpet Installation

Unlike many remodeling jobs, labor represents only a small portion of carpet installation costs. Most professional contractors will charge per hour or per square foot to install carpet. On the other hand, some big-box home improvement stores such as Home Depot offer free installation if you purchase both carpet and padding. You can also call local contractors to get estimates or place your ZIP code in the form below.

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How Does the Cost of Carpet Compare to Other Flooring Types?

If you're trying to decide whether carpet is the right choice for your flooring project, it's worth taking a look at the cost of carpet compared to the cost of other types of flooring. When you compare the costs of 200 square feet of flooring across different materials, including carpet, ceramic tile, hardwood, and vinyl, you'll find that carpet is the most affordable option. So, if you’re looking to make your project cost-effective, carpet will be the best option for you.

*Cost data sourced and verified via holistic analysis of RSMeans construction estimates, national material and labor costs, and quotes obtained during consumer focus groups.

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Additional Costs and Considerations

Beyond just materials and labor, here are some other factors to take into account that may determine final project costs. 

Carpet Removal

In many cases, you’ll need to have your old carpet removed and hauled away before the new one can be installed. You can remove the existing carpet yourself if you’d like. Homeowners paying for professional carpet replacement may include removal as part of the job, which can add $2–$3 per square foot. You may be able to recycle your old carpet or reuse portions of it as rugs, doormats, or soundproofing material.

Floor Repair or Replacement

Any structural problems with your old flooring will need to be fixed before the carpet is laid down. If the damage is extensive, you could pay $1.50–$3.50 per square foot for flooring removal, not including the cost for materials. In some cases, the underlayment may need to be entirely replaced, and contractors will usually charge $0.50–$5.40 per square foot for this work.

Moving Furniture

Before the carpet can be installed or replaced, any furniture in the area will need to be moved out of the way. This may be included as part of labor costs, or it may be separate. For heavy or specialty items that require careful handling, such as grand pianos, you’ll probably pay an extra $50–$100. This is a step many homeowners can save costs on by handling on their own.

Stain-Resistant Treatments

If the carpet you choose hasn’t had any stain-resistant treatment applied during the manufacturing process, you can have it sprayed on after installation. Sold under brand names such as Teflon or Scotchgard, these treatments coat the carpet fibers to help them repel liquids. You can usually treat 1,000 square feet of carpet for about $80.

Subfloor Repair or Replacement

The subfloor is the plywood, fiberboard, or concrete that sits atop your floor joists beneath the finished flooring. It helps evenly distribute the weight of anything that’s on your floors. If this material is old or substantially water damaged, it may need to be repaired or even replaced entirely. This will cost an additional $3–$10 per square foot.

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Signs You Should Replace Your Carpet

Most of the time, it’s apparent when you need new carpet. If the old carpet is ripped, stained, worn, smelly, or moldy, it’s time to have it replaced. Here are some other things to look for when considering carpet replacement:

• Visible signs of old age: Carpet typically has a lifespan of five to 20 years, so if your carpet is older, it may need replacement.
• Signs of significant wear: These signs may include loose threads, undone loops, fading, and crushed pile.
• Unpleasant smells: If you have pets or smokers in the house, your carpet will pick up and hold onto those aromas.
• Uneven thickness: Carpet that feels thinner even if it doesn’t look crushed can be a sign of worn or damaged padding.
• Allergy symptoms: If you or your family notices signs of hay fever out of season, your carpet may be full of allergens, such as dust and dander. If a deep carpet cleaning doesn’t help, replacement may be in order.
• Water damage: Carpeted areas that have experienced flooding usually need to be replaced. Even if you don’t see visible signs of mold or mildew, moisture trapped in the padding or backing can lead to mold growth.

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Benefits of New Carpet

Replacing the carpet in your home can offer the following benefits:

• Refresh your home’s aesthetics with fresh, modern styles 
• Potentially increase your home's value
• Provide enhanced comfort and a luxurious feel
• Improve traction and grip, reducing slip hazards for added safety
• Act as an additional layer that helps regulate indoor temperatures
• Minimize echo and absorb noise for a more peaceful environment

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DIY vs. Professional Carpet Installation

Some carpeting projects may be do-it-yourself-friendly, such as small jobs and the laying of peel-and-stick carpet tiles. However, large-scale jobs are usually better left to the professionals. If you’re replacing carpet, you’ll have to deal with things like removing old tack strips and scraping up dried adhesive before you can even get around to rolling out, stretching, and securing the new carpet. You’ll need a carpet stretcher and a staple hammer-tacker, and you’ll need to be careful when you cut the carpet so you don’t waste material. 

If not properly stretched and secured, carpet can become both an eyesore and a trip hazard. You may also void the carpet’s warranty if you lay it incorrectly. Since labor is usually such a small proportion of a carpet installation’s total cost, it’s usually a good idea to bring in a professional service.

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How To Save on Carpet Installation Costs

Even if you choose a professional carpet installation service, there are several ways you can cut down on the cost of this service:

• Choose a durable style: Select a more durable style of carpet to increase your new carpet's lifespan.
• Get multiple quotes: We recommend getting at least three quotes to find the best price.
• Invest in better padding: Use high-quality carpet padding to extend the life of your carpet.
• Move your own furniture: Save money on movers by handling the furniture yourself.
• Remove your carpet and padding: Consider removing the old carpet and padding on your own instead of paying for a professional service.

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Our Conclusion

The best carpet for your home is the one that stands up to the amount of foot traffic you anticipate while also fitting your price range and your home’s aesthetics. Take the time to explore some different styles before making your choice. 

Homeowners can save money by moving their own furniture or removing old carpet. We recommend professional installation to keep your warranty intact, give your carpet the best look, and extend its lifespan. To get a quote from a carpet installation company near you, use the free quote tool below to connect with professionals in your area.

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FAQ About Carpet Installation

How long does it take to install new carpet?

Installing a new carpet may take as few as four hours for a simple rectangular space with a subfloor in excellent condition or up to one day for a larger job. The carpeting installation job will likely take several days to complete for a whole home with nooks and irregular walls, particularly if subfloor preparation and repair is needed.

How much does it cost to install carpet on stairs?

The cost of installing carpet on stairs typically ranges from an additional $1 to $2 per square foot or $11 to $26 extra per step, depending on the size and shape of the staircase. Installing carpet on stairs requires more skills and effort from the carpet installers, which is why they usually charge more for this service.

How much does it cost to carpet a 12-by-12-foot room?

Carpeting a 12-by-12-foot room at $3–$11 per square foot would cost $432–$1,584. With padding and installation, the total cost could range between $612 and $2,016.

Can I install carpet without professional help?

You can install a carpet without professional help if it’s a small job. Large-scale carpet installations require a lot of prep work and tools such as a carpet stretcher and staple hammer-tacker. You could void the carpet’s warranty and create a trip hazard if you don’t install your carpet properly. Labor usually isn’t a big proportion of carpet installation cost, so it’s generally best to hire professional carpet installers.

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