Laminate Flooring Cost Calculator
Laminate flooring costs about $2–$8 per square foot installed in 2026 — roughly $440–$1,760 for a typical 200 sq ft room. Enter your details for a low-to-high estimate, including a side-by-side vinyl plank comparison.
12 × 12 ft room = 144 sq ft · mid-range laminate $4–$6/sq ft
laminate $2–$8/sq ft vs vinyl plank $3–$10/sq ft, same area and waste
Estimates only — not contractor quotes. Laminate costs vary by plank thickness, AC rating, region, and subfloor condition. Get 2–3 local quotes before committing.
How the laminate flooring cost calculator works
Laminate is priced per square foot installed: the plank itself ($1–$4/sq ft, driven by thickness and AC rating) plus labor ($1–$4/sq ft). Budget 7 mm AC3 planks install near $2–$4; thick 12 mm AC4 planks with premium visuals run $5–$8.
What moves your number: total square footage, plank thickness and AC rating, underlayment ($0.50–$1/sq ft unless the plank has an attached pad), old flooring removal ($1–$3/sq ft), and waste — order 10% extra for straight layouts, 15% for diagonal.
total = area × (1 + waste) × $/sq ft + underlayment + removal · 200 sq ft + 10% waste = 220 sq ft to order
Keep exploring
Deciding between the two click-together floors? The Vinyl Plank Flooring Cost Calculator prices the waterproof alternative side by side — try mode 3 above for the head-to-head numbers.
Laminate flooring cost calculator FAQ
How much does laminate flooring cost per square foot?
About $2–$8 per square foot installed in 2026. Materials run roughly $1–$4/sq ft depending on thickness and AC rating; professional labor adds another $1–$4/sq ft.
How much does it cost to install laminate in a 12×12 room?
A 12×12 room is 144 sq ft — add 10% waste and you order about 158 sq ft, which lands around $320–$1,270 installed depending on plank quality.
Is laminate or vinyl plank cheaper?
Laminate is usually cheaper upfront: $2–$8/sq ft installed versus $3–$10 for vinyl plank. Vinyl plank wins on waterproofing, which is why it dominates kitchens, baths, and basements.
Does laminate flooring need underlayment?
Yes, unless the planks ship with an attached pad. Budget $0.50–$1 per sq ft for underlayment — on concrete slabs use a vapor-barrier type to block moisture.
Can laminate flooring go in kitchens or bathrooms?
Not recommended. Laminate’s fiberboard core swells with standing water or high humidity. For wet areas choose vinyl plank or tile instead.
How long does laminate flooring last?
About 15–25 years in a typical home. Lifespan tracks the AC durability rating and plank thickness — thicker 12 mm planks with AC4+ ratings last longest.
What AC rating should I look for in laminate?
AC3 suits heavy residential use (living rooms, hallways); AC4 handles light commercial traffic and is the sweet spot for busy households. AC5 is overkill for most homes.