“We love this house, but we’re out of room,” is a remark we often hear from our clients. There’s no quiet corner for work, the kids’ toys have overtaken the living room, and the kitchen barely accommodates dinner for family and friends. Sound familiar?
Expanding your home is a practical solution for creating space that actually works for the way you live. A thoughtfully designed home addition can solve these challenges while improving the way you actually experience your home. The best part is that there’s no need for a stressful move or to leave a neighborhood you love. But the first question every homeowner asks is, understandably: how much does a home addition cost?
How much will your home addition cost?
The answer depends on several factors. Home addition projects can run anywhere from $20,000 to $1,000,000 or more, depending on the size, materials, and complexity. That’s quite a range! In Jacksonville, you also need to consider storm codes, flood zone requirements, and permit fees. Most local homeowners pay somewhere between $175 and $450+ per square foot, and that price range can fluctuate dramatically depending on whether you’re adding a bedroom, a full second story, or a bathroom with high-end finishes.
Understanding the cost drivers of a home addition
A common misconception is that home additions are a one-size-fits-all expense. In reality, costs vary widely based on design choices, the type of room, and local factors.
- Kitchens and bathrooms are often the most expensive because they involve plumbing, electrical, and sometimes custom cabinetry
- Adding a second story requires reinforcing the existing structure and can involve replacing or modifying the roof
- Even material choices can dramatically alter the final bill, as luxury flooring, high-end finishes, and custom windows all add up
Don’t forget about permits and local codes. Florida’s hurricane regulations, zoning restrictions, and inspection requirements can extend timelines and increase costs. Before anyone lifts a hammer, any good contractor will factor in these details so you’re not hit with unexpected delays or fines.
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Realistic budgeting for a home addition project
| Addition Size | Example Projects | Estimated Cost Range |
| Small | Bedroom or office | $20,000 – $75,000 |
| Medium | Family room, expanded kitchen | $60,000 – $150,000 |
| Large | Second-story addition, master suite with luxury bathroom | $225,000+ |
| Very large | Entire second story with multiple bedrooms/baths, major kitchen + great room expansion | $500,000 – $750,000 |
| Luxury / estate-level | Multi-generational addition, indoor–outdoor living wing with pool house, or doubling the home’s size | $750,000 – $1,000,000+ |
While the sticker price can feel high, it’s often more cost-effective than selling your home and buying something larger. Done well, a home addition is an investment in comfort, functionality, and the long-term enjoyment of the home you already love.
The most important part of any home addition project is planning early
Define your priorities, understand your budget, and work with a design + build expert who knows NE Florida’s unique requirements. At John Merrill Homes, we take a holistic, consultative approach, guiding you from your initial vision through to the design, construction, permitting, and everything in between. Home additions and remodels that range from medium to estate-scale are our sweet spot. Our transparent quoting helps you understand what’s possible within your budget so that you can make the most of your investment.
Schedule a free consultation to get started.
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