Laminate flooring is a popular choice for homeowners who want the look of natural wood without the high costs or maintenance. Laminate flooring installation costs average between $6 and $13 per square foot, with labor and materials included.
Laminate has a fiberboard core with an image top layer that mimics the look of wood. The result is a scratch-resistant flooring material that costs between $1,200 and $2,600 to install in a 200-square-foot area. It is best for living rooms and bedrooms, but it can also be installed in bathrooms and kitchens if extra care is provided.
Our estimates consider the costs of installation and materials in big and small cities across the U.S., but the final costs will depend on several factors. Let’s take a closer look at each one of them.
Cost by Location
Though you can install laminate flooring in any part of the country, the costs for installation can vary a lot depending on where you’re located, and there are several reasons for this:
- Labor costs are higher in urban areas due to the higher demand, which drives up the cost.
- Living costs are higher in big cities, which also increases costs.
- There may be fewer options available in your area, and you may have to pay more because of it.
- If materials have to be shipped from a distance, you might have to pay an additional fee.
The table below shows a snapshot of the costs to install laminate flooring in a sample of cities across the country:
| City | Cost per Square Foot (Labor and Materials) |
| Northeast U.S. | |
| Pawtucket, RI | $5.60 – $12.40 |
| New York, NY | $6.90 – $15.40 |
| Southeast U.S. | |
| Dothan, AL | $5.10 – $11.30 |
| Orlando, FL | $5.20 – $11.60 |
| Atlanta, GA | $6.00 – $13.30 |
| Midwest U.S. | |
| South Bend, IN | $5.30 – $11.70 |
| Chicago, IL | $6.20 – $13.70 |
| Northwest U.S. | |
| Corvallis, OR | $5.30 – $11.70 |
| Seattle, WA | $5.90 – $13.20 |
| Southwest U.S. | |
| Roswell, NM | $5.30 – $11.80 |
| San Diego, CA | $5.80 – $12.80 |
| Houston, TX | $6.10 – $13.60 |
Cost by Style
While laminate flooring that looks like wood is the most common style, the image top layer can be printed to resemble other types of material, such as tile or stone, and prices will vary accordingly.
Wood-look laminate is the most common style and the least expensive one, while tile-look laminate can cost as much as $5 per square foot, not including installation.
| Laminate Style | Average Cost per Square Foot (Materials Only) |
| Wood Look | $1 – $4 |
| Stone Look | $2 – $4.50 |
| Tile Look | $2 – $5 |
Wood Look Laminate
Laminate flooring that looks like wood is the most common style and therefore tends to be more readily available than other types of laminate. These laminate floors are usually installed using a “click and lock” system, making them DIY-friendly.
They are fabricated to resemble various types of wood and can be found in various patterns and colors:
| Wood Type | Average Cost per Square Foot (Materials Only) |
| Acacia | $1 – $2 |
| Beech | $1 – $2.50 |
| Cherry | $1 – $2.50 |
| Walnut | $1 – $2.50 |
| Maple | $1 – $4 |
| Oak | $1 – $4 |
| Elm | $1.50 – $3 |
| Hickory | $1.50 – $4.50 |
Stone Look Laminate
Stone-look laminates have a printed image layer that resembles natural stone materials, such as slate, marble, or travertine. However, they are not as common as wood laminates, so they may be more difficult to find.
Like other types of laminate flooring, stone-look laminate is typically installed in click-lock, so they’re an excellent option for those who want the look of stone without the difficulty of installation.
Tile Look Laminate
Tile-look laminate flooring mimics the appearance of ceramic or porcelain tiles. However, it’s important to note that they’re not the same as actual tiles and can be damaged if exposed to water.
Tile-look laminates are an excellent alternative to real tile for people on a budget and can be easily installed DIY.
Cost by Thickness
The thickness of a laminate plank can also impact its costs. Thicker laminate tends to have better sound absorption. It is often easier to install but may come with a higher price tag. However, thinner planks require a perfectly even subfloor for proper installation, so you might pay more overall.
Here are the costs of laminate flooring by thickness:
| Thickness | Cost per Square Foot (Materials and Labor) |
| 5-8 mm | $5.70 – $10.40 |
| 10-12 mm | $7.20 – $12.70 |
Cost Estimator by Area Size
The square footage of your laminate flooring project can significantly impact the overall cost. Larger areas will need more materials and will take longer to install, increasing costs. In contrast, the job can be done quickly in small areas using fewer materials.
Laminate flooring costs $6 to $13 per square foot to install, with materials and labor included. Use the table below to get a rough estimate of your project.
| Project Size | Average (Materials and Labor) |
| 100 sq. ft. | $600 – $1,300 |
| 200 sq. ft. | $1,200 – $2,600 |
| 300 sq. ft. | $1,800 – $3,900 |
| 400 sq. ft. | $2,400 – $5,200 |
| 500 sq. ft. | $3,000 – $6,500 |
| 600 sq. ft. | $3,600 – $7,800 |
Cost by Texture
Laminate flooring comes in several different textures that can add a unique and natural look to your home, and the prices for each can vary slightly:
| Type of Texture | Average Costs per Square Foot (Materials Only) | Description |
| Smooth | $1.70 – $2.80 | Sleek and modern look without any visible texture or grain. Easier to clean but can be more slippery. |
| Embossed | $1.80 – $3.40 | More subtle, wood grain-like texture. |
| Embossed in register | $1.90 – $4 | Raised texture aligned with a wood image printed in the top layer. It gives a more realistic look to the flooring. |
| Hand-scraped | $2.50 – $6 | This texture gives the laminate a rustic, distressed look. It is designed to replicate the look of hand-scraped hardwood flooring. |
Cost by Finish
Besides the textures, laminate flooring can also come in different finishes, and each one has its characteristics and prices associated with it:
| Type of Finish | Average Cost per Square Foot (Materials Only) | Definition |
| Semi-matte | $0.90 – $3.90 | The most popular finish, as it has an elegant sheen that doesn’t look over-the-top. |
| Matte | $0.90 – $4.20 | Gives your flooring a subtle look. However, it absorbs light, showing dirt and footprints. |
| Gloss | $1.70 – $5.40 | Has a very reflective high shine. It can help create a sophisticated look in your home while hiding imperfections. |
Cost of Labor
While it’s possible to install laminate flooring yourself, it can be a time-consuming and challenging task, especially if you need to repair or replace the subfloors.
A flooring contractor can save you time and ensure a high-quality installation for $3 to $8 per square foot, depending on the complexity of installation, the type of laminate, and the area in which you live.
Pro Cost vs. DIY Cost
One of the main benefits of laminate is that it is relatively easy to install in click-lock. Laminate can be installed over most existing flooring if it’s in good condition and leveled.
Buying all the equipment needed for laminate installation will cost you $126 to $196. This cost might be lower if you already have some of these materials at home. However, doing it yourself if you have no experience can make mistakes more probable and incur costs to fix them down the road.
Other Factors That Affect Cost
The overall cost of laminate flooring can vary significantly depending on a few factors:
Abrasion Rating
The AC rating, or abrasion rating, measures a laminate flooring’s resistance to wear and tear. The scale ranges from AC1 to AC5, with AC1 being the lowest resistance level and AC5 being the highest.
Ratings from 1 to 4 are appropriate for residential use. Still, if you’re considering installing laminate in high-traffic areas, choosing a higher AC level is advisable. Laminate flooring with a higher AC usually costs more, but they are also more durable.
Flooring Preparation
Although you can install laminate flooring over various flooring materials, many homeowners prefer removing their old flooring beforehand. There are also a few tasks you can do to prepare for your laminate installation. Here are their costs:
- Removing the existing flooring from a 200-square-foot space costs around $450, or $70 per hour.
- Replacing the subfloors costs between $2 and $7 per square foot, and it’s best to leave it for a professional.
- New underlayment usually costs between $2 and $5 per square foot, but some laminate planks have attached underlayment.
FAQ
How Long Do Laminate Floors Last?
In general, laminate flooring can last for 15 to 25 years, but this can vary depending on the quality of the laminate and the AC rating. Also, note that laminate can look worn over time when subjected to heavy foot traffic.
What are the Negatives of Laminate Flooring?
Here are some negative aspects to consider when choosing laminate flooring:
- Laminate is not usually water resistant, so it may not be suitable for areas prone to moisture or spills.
- Laminate can’t be refinished like wood, so once it becomes scratched or damaged, it may need to be replaced.
- Laminate flooring can be noisy when walked on, which may be a concern for homeowners who value a quiet environment.
Renovate Your Home with New Flooring
Laminate flooring offers an affordable and stylish way to refresh your space without breaking the bank. By understanding the factors that influence installation costs, you can plan your project and choose a flooring option that fits your needs.
Costs in this article are derived from national and local sources and are accurate at the time of reporting and writing.
See Related:
- Hardwood Flooring Cost Guide
- Engineered Hardwood Flooring Cost Guide
- Linoleum Flooring Cost Guide
- Vinyl Flooring Cost Guide
- Bamboo Flooring Cost Guide
- Cork Flooring Cost Guide
Main Image Credit: Serhii / Adobe Stock Free / License
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