Metal Building Prices in the Modern Age
Planning a metal building project in 2025 has never been easier, but it’s still not always a walk in the park. Even if you know the type of building you want, getting the best price is its own battle. Rising steel prices and global economic uncertainty have made it harder to get the building you need without breaking the bank or, at a minimum, impacting your day-to-day life.
But by understanding the industry, where it’s headed, and what to expect when buying, you can maximize your buying power and get a structure that works for you and your budget.
What is the Average Cost of a Metal Building in 2025?
As of 2025, the average cost of a metal building sits between $11 and $20 per square foot. But that's only a fraction of your total metal building price. Grading your land will average $1-$2 per square foot, and foundation work ranges between $4 and $8 per square foot. Here's a breakdown of what you can expect to pay based on the size of your structure and the aforementioned numbers:
| Building Size | Average Material Cost | Installed Cost |
| Small Buildings (20x30) | $6,600 to $12,000 | $10,600 to $19,000 |
| Medium Buildings (40x60) | $26,400 to $48,000 | $38,400 to $115,200 |
| Large Buildings (100x100) | $110,000 to $200,000 | $160,000 to $290,000 |
Please note: All prices mentioned are estimates and may vary.
Steel Tariffs Announced for 2025
In early 2025, a 25% global tariff on steel products was announced, adding another layer of unpredictability to material costs and overall pricing. Coupled with economic uncertainty in the United States, these tariffs have pushed steel prices higher than in previous years. This increase will likely continue to affect project costs, making it even more important to plan your building strategically.
Factors that Influence Metal Building Prices
There are several factors that directly impact the cost of your metal building. These include:
- Raw Material Costs
Fluctuations in steel prices are one of the most significant factors in metal building costs.
- Geographic Location
Access to your property, local manufacturers' pricing, and local weather conditions can influence the cost of your steel building.
- Building Size and Configuration
Larger buildings and custom designs require more materials and labor, which will increase the final asking price.
- Permits and Site Prep
Regulations, soil conditions, and grading costs will influence your project costs.
- Installation and Labor Costs
Some metal building providers will charge fees for delivery and installation. But we include delivery and installation with every purchase, so you won’t have to worry about contacting third-party contractors.
Budgeting Your Metal Building and Coping with Rising Prices
With steel prices climbing, it can be hard to stay within budget. But with the right know-how, you can manage your building project costs. Below, we’ve put together some great tips for lowering your building’s cost:
- Choose a Smaller Building Size
Scaling down your project can significantly reduce material costs and minimize the impact on your wallet.
- Buy During Sales
Taking advantage of promotions can lead to substantial savings, so you’ll want to carefully track upcoming sales and offers.
- Lock in Your Price with a Down Payment
By locking in your custom metal building with a down payment, you can avoid costly price increases in the future.
- Minimize Custom Features
Reducing custom add-ons is a great way to lower the final price of your metal building.
- Explore Financing and RTO Options
Why pay for it all upfront? You can explore our range of flexible financing options and RTO plans to find a payment schedule that works for you and your budget.
Future Trends in Steel Building Costs
While 2025 has seen rising steel prices, experts hope to see some stabilization later in the year. However, due to ongoing economic shifts, staying informed about market trends will be key to making cost-effective decisions for your project.
Is Steel Building a Smart Investment in 2025?
Despite rising costs, metal buildings remain one of the best investments for property owners. They offer unmatched durability, low maintenance requirements, and long-term savings compared to traditional stick-built structures.
Whether you're building a workshop, garage, or commercial facility, metal buildings still remain one of the most affordable options on the market.
Contact Direct Metal Structures and Keep Your Things Protected
Direct Metal Structures is proud to be a trusted name for metal buildings of all shapes and sizes. From small backyard storage sheds to enormous agricultural buildings, we have the experience and engineering to deliver real, lasting results.
Our metal structures are backed by warranties on framing and paneling and craftsmanship guarantees on their construction. They're made with premium steel components and are ready to serve you for a lifetime.
Call us today at 888-277-7950 to learn more about our offerings and how to kick off your metal building project the right way!
