Highlights
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The size of the cabin and the quality of materials are the most important cost factors to consider.
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Custom cabins cost two to three times as much as a simple A-frame and many times more than a cabin kit.
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Adding running water, electricity, and an HVAC system will bump up costs by tens of thousands.
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Remember to budget for land costs and land prep, which can easily double the actual construction cost.
The total cost to build a log cabin ranges from $50,000 to $150,000 on average, or about $125 to $175 per square foot. Two of the biggest factors affecting the cost are the size and location of the cabin, but you’ll also need to consider the cabin type, materials, labor costs, and amenities. Whether you’re dreaming of a simple one-room hideaway or a sprawling family retreat, here’s what you need to know to budget for building a cabin.
Cost to Build a Cabin per Square Foot
Log cabins cost between $125 and $175 per square foot. A small 200-square-foot cabin could cost as little as $25,000, while a larger 1,500-square-foot cabin could cost $225,000 or more.
Log cabins have a similar price per square foot as the cost to build a house, which is about $100 and $200 per square foot. The main advantage of a log cabin when it comes to price is that it’s small and cozy—the perfect place to get away from it all.
| Cabin Size (Square Feet) | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| 200 | $25,000–$35,000 |
| 500 | $62,500–$87,500 |
| 750 | $93,750–$131,250 |
| 1,000 | $125,000–$175,000 |
| 1,500 | $187,500–$262,500 |
