Pennsylvania vs Ohio
Side-by-side construction cost comparison for 2026. Building a 2,000 sq ft home in Ohio saves approximately $60,000.
More affordable for new construction
Ohio
$173/sq ft vs $203/sq ft — saves $60,000 on a 2,000 sq ft build
| Metric | Pennsylvania | Ohio |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 $/sq ft | $203 | $173 ✓ |
| 1,500 sq ft | $304,500 | $259,500 ✓ |
| 2,000 sq ft | $406,000 | $346,000 ✓ |
| 2,500 sq ft | $507,500 | $432,500 ✓ |
| Labor Index | 1.10 | 0.90 ✓ |
| Material Index | 1.06 | 0.94 ✓ |
| Avg Permit Cost | $2,800 | $2,100 ✓ |
| Median Home Price | $288,000 | $242,000 ✓ |
| Home Price YoY | +4.2% | +5.5% |
| Climate | Humid continental | Humid continental |
Pennsylvania Notes
- ›Philadelphia area significantly more expensive
- ›Union vs. open shop varies by region
- ›Frost line to 36"
- ›Karst limestone in some areas
Ohio Notes
- ›Moderate cost market
- ›Glacial soils may have bearing issues
- ›Cold winters, frost line to 36"
- ›Strong skilled trades workforce
Cost by Home Size
| Size | Pennsylvania | Ohio | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 500 sq ft | $101,500 | $86,500 | Ohio saves $15,000 |
| 1,000 sq ft | $203,000 | $173,000 | Ohio saves $30,000 |
| 1,500 sq ft | $304,500 | $259,500 | Ohio saves $45,000 |
| 2,000 sq ft | $406,000 | $346,000 | Ohio saves $60,000 |
| 2,500 sq ft | $507,500 | $432,500 | Ohio saves $75,000 |
| 3,000 sq ft | $609,000 | $519,000 | Ohio saves $90,000 |
| 4,000 sq ft | $812,000 | $692,000 | Ohio saves $120,000 |
| 5,000 sq ft | $1,015,000 | $865,000 | Ohio saves $150,000 |