How Much Does It Cost to Build a House?
By George Giannakakis · M.Arch · RLA300580 · HIA Industry Judge
Last reviewed: · How we research
How Much Does It Cost to Build a House? explained in detail
Building costs in Australia range from $1,400 to $3,500+ per square metre depending on location, quality, and complexity. A standard project home (200-250sqm) typically costs $320,000-$500,000 excluding land and site costs. Custom architecturally-designed homes can cost $500,000-$1,000,000+. Major cost factors include location (city vs regional), finish level (standard vs premium), number of storeys, and site conditions.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about how much does it cost to build a house?
Project home (volume builder): $1,950-$2,400 per square metre; mid-range / semi-custom: $2,400-$2,950; custom / architect: $2,950-$4,500+. A standard 220m² family home runs $430,000-$649,000 in build cost alone. Add land ($150K-$450K), site costs ($25K-$60K), and ~5-10% contingency for the full all-in budget.
Cost figures are indicative onlyUpdated February 2026
All prices and cost ranges mentioned are approximate, based on Adelaide market conditions at time of writing, and may not reflect current pricing. Actual costs depend on your specific site, design, builder, materials, and market conditions. Project-specific quotes from qualified professionals are needed for accurate pricing.
Verify against the binding rules in your state
BuildPilot is an independent home-build CoPilot - we publish guidance, we don't hold a building licence. Every Australian residential build must comply with the National Construction Code plus state-specific Acts and consumer-protection law. The authorities below are the primary sources of truth for the rules that actually apply to your project.
National
The primary national set of technical building standards that every Australian build must comply with. Volume 2 covers Class 1 & 10 buildings (most homes).
Specific material, product and method standards (e.g. AS 3700 masonry, AS 1684 timber framing) referenced by the NCC.
National peak body for residential builders. Publishes the most widely used home-building contracts and consumer guidance.
National peak body for general builders. Publishes commercial and residential contracts and industry guidance.
By state & territory
Links above open the public website of each authority. BuildPilot is not affiliated with these bodies and does not act on their behalf. Information on this page is general - check the current edition of the NCC and the relevant state Act for binding requirements.
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