If you’re a homeowner in Austin, TX, you’ve probably noticed that the city is buzzing with renovations. Between the growing housing market, aging homes in established neighborhoods, and the constant flow of new residents, more people are upgrading rather than moving.
One of the most common questions we hear is: “How much does a full home renovation cost in Austin?”
The answer depends on your home, your vision, and a few key factors unique to Central Texas. Let’s break it down so you can plan your project with realistic expectations.
What Does “Full Home Renovation” Really Mean?
Before talking numbers, it’s important to define what a full home renovation typically includes.
A full home renovation usually involves updating most (or all) of the major areas of the house — not just one or two rooms. It may include:
- Interior upgrades: kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, paint, lighting, and built-ins.
- Structural changes: removing or adding walls, reconfiguring layouts, expanding square footage.
- Systems updates: new plumbing, electrical work, HVAC upgrades.
- Exterior improvements: siding, roofing, windows, and outdoor living spaces.
In other words, it’s about transforming the whole home to improve functionality, aesthetics, and value — not just freshening up the surface.
Average Full Home Renovation Costs in Austin (2025)
Austin’s renovation costs have risen in recent years, driven by higher labor rates, increased material prices, and strong demand for skilled contractors.
Here’s a realistic local range for full home renovations in 2025:
- Basic updates (minimal structural changes): $80 – $150 per sq. ft.
- Mid-range renovations (mix of upgrades & some structural work): $150 – $250 per sq. ft.
- High-end renovations (premium finishes, major layout changes): $250+ per sq. ft.
For example, renovating a 2,000 sq. ft. home in Austin could range from $160,000 to $500,000+ depending on scope and selections.
Factors That Influence Your Renovation Cost
Every home, and homeowner, is different. Here are the biggest variables that determine your final cost:
1. Home Size & Layout
Larger homes naturally cost more to renovate, but layout complexity matters too. Open-concept conversions often require more structural work.
2. Scope of Work
Replacing cabinets and counters is far less costly than moving plumbing, adding square footage, or reconfiguring floor plans.
3. Material & Finish Choices
Tile vs. hardwood, quartz vs. granite, builder-grade vs. custom-built, material quality plays a major role in pricing.
4. Labor Rates in Austin
Austin’s skilled trades are in high demand. Working with experienced professionals ensures quality but can carry a higher labor cost than smaller towns.
5. Permits & Inspections
City of Austin permitting fees and inspection requirements vary based on project scope. Structural, electrical, and plumbing work will require permits.
Room-by-Room Cost Snapshot
In a full home renovation, some areas of the house tend to have a bigger influence on the overall budget. Kitchens and bathrooms often require the most work because they involve plumbing, electrical, cabinetry, and specialty finishes. Flooring can also make a significant impact, especially if you’re replacing it throughout the home.
Exterior updates like siding and roofing are typically larger investments since they protect your home from the elements and often require more labor and materials.
The actual cost for each area will depend on the size of the space, the complexity of the work, and the materials you choose. Custom features, structural changes, or repairs uncovered during construction can also affect the final price.
Cost-Saving Tips Without Cutting Quality
If you’re looking to stretch your renovation budget, you can save smartly without sacrificing the integrity of your home.
- Prioritize projects: Focus first on spaces you use most or areas affecting resale value, like kitchens and bathrooms.
- Reuse where possible: Refinishing cabinets or repurposing existing materials can reduce costs.
- Plan ahead: Early decisions help avoid costly changes mid-project.
- Work with one contractor: A single point of contact can streamline scheduling, reduce delays, and lower labor overlap costs.
Why Local Expertise Matters in Austin
Central Texas has its quirks, from the expansive clay soil that affects foundations to strict permitting requirements in certain neighborhoods. A trusted local contractor understands these challenges and plans accordingly.
At AC Cornerstone Building, we:
- Provide in-person quotes so you get accurate, transparent pricing.
- Bring veteran leadership and decades of hands-on craftsmanship to every project.
- Focus on quality over quantity, ensuring your renovation is built to last.
Ready to find out what your renovation could cost?
A full home renovation in Austin, TX, is a significant investment, but done right, it can transform your space, increase your home’s value, and make daily life more enjoyable.
Whether you’re modernizing an older home in Hyde Park, opening up a 1980s floor plan in Round Rock, or giving a South Austin bungalow a complete facelift, the key is realistic budgeting and partnering with the right contractor.
Contact AC Cornerstone Building today for a detailed, in-person estimate tailored to your home and vision.
