Civil Engineer | Estimator
Last Updated: December 16, 2025
Drywall ceilings are an essential part of most homes and buildings. They help create a smooth and clean look, providing both aesthetic appeal and practicality. If you’re planning to hang and finish a drywall ceiling, you must consider a variety of factors to understand the total cost of the project. This guide will help you explore the various costs associated with hanging and finishing drywall ceilings in the United States, offering insights into labor, materials, and factors that influence the price.
Drywall, also known as sheetrock, is a common building material used to create smooth ceilings and walls. It is made of gypsum plaster sandwiched between two layers of paper. Drywall ceilings are often preferred for their durability, fire resistance, and soundproofing qualities.
Calculate exactly how much drywall material you need for your ceiling project.
Wastage Factors:
Additional Materials: This calculation includes all essential drywall materials. Add 10-15% for unexpected needs.
The cost to hang and finish drywall ceilings varies significantly based on project complexity, materials, and labor. Drywall ceiling installation involves measuring, cutting, and securing panels to ceiling joists, which is more challenging than wall installations due to gravity and the need for additional support systems.
Professional drywall installation requires specific skills and equipment, particularly for ceiling work where panels must be held in place against gravity. The finishing process involves taping, mudding, and sanding to create a smooth surface ready for painting.
| Task | Low Cost (per sq. ft) |
High Cost (per sq. ft) |
|---|---|---|
| Install Walls | $1.60 | $3.75 |
| Install Ceilings | $1.85 | $4.25 |
| Replace Existing Drywall | $2.25 | $6.50 |
| Ceiling Texturing | $0.75 | $2.50 |
| Room Size | Drywall Ceiling Area | Total Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| 10' x 10' | 100 sq ft | $400 - $1,100 |
| 12' x 12' | 144 sq ft | $480 - $1,320 |
| 14' x 14' | 196 sq ft | $650 - $1,785 |
| 16' x 20' | 320 sq ft | $1,060 - $2,920 |
| 20' x 20' | 400 sq ft | $1,325 - $3,650 |
Key factors affecting drywall ceiling costs:
Professional Recommendation: Always obtain at least 3 detailed quotes from licensed contractors. Ensure quotes specify the drywall type, finishing level, and include all materials, labor, and cleanup. Many contractors offer package pricing that can reduce costs for larger projects or multiple-room installations.
Calculate professional hanging and finishing labor costs for your ceiling project.
What's Included in Labor Costs:
Additional Costs Not Included: Materials, primer/paint, scaffolding rental, disposal fees.
| Ceiling Size | Material Cost | Labor Cost | Finishing Cost | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 100 sq ft | $100 - $200 | $100 - $150 | $50 - $200 | $250 - $550 |
| 200 sq ft | $200 - $400 | $200 - $300 | $100 - $400 | $500 - $1,100 |
| 500 sq ft | $500 - $1,000 | $500 - $750 | $250 - $1,000 | $1,250 - $2,750 |
| 1,000 sq ft | $1,000 - $2,000 | $1,000 - $1,500 | $500 - $2,000 | $2,500 - $5,500 |
The cost to finish a drywall ceiling varies significantly based on the level of finish you require. Drywall finishing is categorized into different levels (0-5) as defined by the Gypsum Association, with each level representing a different quality and completeness of finish. Higher finish levels require more labor, materials, and expertise, resulting in increased costs.
Key Factors Affecting Cost:
For standard residential ceilings, Level 4 is typically recommended, while Level 5 represents the highest quality finish suitable for critical lighting areas or commercial spaces.
| Finish Level | Description | Labor Cost | Material Cost | Total Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level 0 | No finishing required. Drywall is installed but no taping, finishing, or accessories. | $0.00 - $0.50 | $0.00 - $0.10 | $0.00 - $0.60 | Temporary construction, storage areas |
| Level 1 | Joint tape embedded in joint compound. Excess compound removed leaving only thin coat. | $0.50 - $0.90 | $0.10 - $0.25 | $0.60 - $1.15 | Utility areas, plenums, above ceilings |
| Level 2 | One coat of joint compound over tape and fastener heads. Minimal surface preparation. | $0.90 - $1.30 | $0.25 - $0.40 | $1.15 - $1.70 | Garages, warehouses, areas with heavy texture |
| Level 3 | Two coats of compound over tape and fasteners. Ready for heavy texture application. | $1.30 - $1.80 | $0.40 - $0.60 | $1.70 - $2.40 | Areas to receive heavy texture, spray finishes |
| Level 4 | Three coats of compound, sanded smooth. Ready for light texture or flat paint. | $1.80 - $2.50 | $0.60 - $0.90 | $2.40 - $3.40 | Standard residential ceilings, flat painted surfaces |
| Level 5 | Level 4 plus thin skim coat over entire surface. Ultra-smooth finish. | $2.50 - $3.50 | $0.90 - $1.40 | $3.40 - $4.90 | Critical lighting areas, gloss/semi-gloss paint, commercial |
Understanding the cost to hang and finish drywall is essential for accurate project budgeting. As of December 2025, the cost per sheet for both hanging and finishing ranges from $32 to $85, depending on several factors including location, ceiling height, and the level of finish required.
Key Cost Factors:
| Room Size | Sheets Required | Drywall Required (in Sq Ft) |
Cost per Sheet (Hanging + Finishing) |
Total Cost (Average Range) |
Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12' x 12' Bedroom | 18 sheets | 200 – 250 sq ft | $32 – $85 | $575 – $1,530 | Includes hanging and finishing for a standard bedroom (144 sq ft) with 8' ceilings. Assumes Level 4 finish quality. |
| 12' x 16' Room | 22 sheets | 380 – 530 sq ft | $32 – $85 | $700 – $1,870 | Covers 192 sq ft with full drywall installation. Includes ceiling and all walls with standard finishing. |
| 14' x 20' Living Room | 30 sheets | 510 – 750 sq ft | $34 – $88 | $1,020 – $2,640 | For a living room of 280 sq ft, fully finished. Higher cost reflects larger openings and potential cathedral ceilings. |
| 16' x 20' Primary Room | 32 sheets | 580 – 900 sq ft | $34 – $88 | $1,090 – $2,815 | Covers a larger space of 320 sq ft with all finishing included. Often includes ensuite bathroom walls. |
| 20' x 24' Basement | 48 sheets | 730 – 1,130 sq ft | $35 – $90 | $1,680 – $4,320 | For a 480 sq ft basement requiring full finishing. Higher per-sheet cost reflects moisture-resistant materials and potentially lower ceilings. |
Market Notes: Drywall costs have stabilized after the 2024 supply chain adjustments, with labor costs increasing approximately 4-6% year-over-year. Moisture-resistant drywall (commonly used in basements) now averages $18-$32 per sheet, while fire-rated drywall ranges from $28-$45 per sheet. Always obtain multiple quotes for accurate pricing in your specific region.
The labor cost for hanging a drywall ceiling typically ranges from $0.60 to $1.50 per square foot. This cost depends on the complexity of the ceiling and the experience of the contractor. In general, simple installations will be on the lower end of this scale, while ceilings with intricate designs or additional features may be on the higher end. Labor costs are also influenced by geographical location, with rates being higher in large cities compared to rural areas.
The cost of materials for hanging a drywall ceiling generally ranges from $1.00 to $2.00 per square foot, depending on the type of drywall you choose. Standard drywall sheets typically cost between $10 to $15 per 4×8 foot sheet, with each sheet covering about 32 square feet. More specialized types of drywall, such as moisture-resistant or fire-resistant drywall, will cost more. For example, moisture-resistant drywall can range from $15 to $20 per sheet, while fire-resistant drywall can cost up to $25 per sheet.
Standard Drywall Ceiling:
This is the most common type of ceiling used in homes and buildings. It provides a smooth, flat surface that is easy to paint and maintain. Standard drywall sheets are made from gypsum and are ideal for most residential and commercial ceilings.
Moisture-Resistant Drywall Ceiling:
Moisture-resistant drywall, also called green board, is designed for areas with high humidity, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. It helps prevent mold and mildew growth. This type of drywall costs more than standard drywall and is essential for wet areas.
Fire-Resistant Drywall Ceiling:
Fire-resistant drywall is designed to withstand high temperatures and is used in areas where fire protection is a concern, such as kitchens, garages, and multi-family buildings. This drywall is more expensive than standard drywall due to the added fire-resistant properties.
Soundproof Drywall Ceiling:
Soundproof drywall is used when noise reduction is a priority. It is often used in apartment buildings, theaters, and other spaces where sound insulation is important. This type of drywall can significantly reduce sound transmission between rooms.
Textured Drywall Ceiling:
Textured drywall ceilings are often used for decorative purposes. Common finishes include popcorn, knockdown, or swirl textures. These finishes can add a unique look to the ceiling, but they are more labor-intensive to apply, increasing both material and labor costs.
| Drywall Ceiling Type | Material Cost(per sq ft) | Labor Cost(per sq ft) | Finishing Cost(per sq ft) | Average Total Cost(per sq ft) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Drywall | $1.00 - $1.50 | $0.60 - $1.00 | $0.50 - $1.00 | $2.10 - $3.50 |
| Moisture-Resistant Drywall | $1.50 - $2.00 | $0.75 - $1.25 | $0.75 - $1.25 | $3.00 - $4.50 |
| Fire-Resistant Drywall | $2.00 - $2.50 | $0.80 - $1.50 | $0.80 - $1.50 | $3.60 - $5.50 |
| Soundproof Drywall | $2.50 - $3.00 | $1.00 - $1.75 | $1.00 - $2.00 | $4.50 - $6.75 |
| Textured Drywall | $1.50 - $2.00 | $1.00 - $1.50 | $1.00 - $2.00 | $3.50 - $5.50 |
how much will your drywall project cost?
It typically takes about 1 to 2 days for a professional to install drywall on a standard ceiling.
Hanging drywall on the ceiling is challenging and typically requires at least two people due to the weight and size of the sheets.
Drywall is quicker and easier to install than plaster, making it a more popular option for ceiling finishes.
Yes, drywall ceilings can be painted, but they should first be sealed with a primer to ensure the paint adheres properly.
The best texture depends on your preferences, but smooth, knockdown, and popcorn textures are popular choices for ceilings.
To maintain a drywall ceiling, ensure it stays dry and clean, and address any cracks or damage immediately.
A sagging ceiling can often be fixed by adding additional screws and possibly replacing damaged drywall.
Heavy objects should not be hung directly from drywall without proper reinforcement, as drywall alone cannot support significant weight.
Ceiling tiles can be more expensive to install than drywall, depending on the material and design of the tiles.