According to a survey conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau in 2017, the national median was $101.25 per square foot. A footnote explained that the design and location could change the price considerably.
No stuff!
Jump on Zillow sometime and look up a 2,500 SF home for sale with three bedrooms and two bathrooms in Flandreau, South Dakota ($65-90/SF). Then do the same in Hillsborough, California ($1,088-1,268) and finally in the town where you live. It’s all over the road! The same is true for new construction where labor costs currently seem to be the biggest driver in price escalation. Too many jobs, not enough skilled labor.
Sure, we’re biased but with a mild climate, beautiful scenic landscapes, and easy access to a vast outdoor wonderland, the Pacific Northwest is a pretty special place to call home. And compared to Hillsborough, a per square foot price in the $200-300 range in the Portland/Vancouver area, depending on finishes, design, and some other important factors, doesn’t sound all that bad. Would $75 per square foot be better? Absolutely! But do you really wanna live in Flandreau?
