Price per square foot calculator
Comparing two homes or checking a listing price? Enter a total price and living area to get dollars per square foot — or flip it around and find the total price from a $/sqft figure.
How price per square foot works
Price per square foot is total price divided by living area. It lets you compare homes of different sizes on equal footing — a $500,000 home at 2,000 sq ft ($250/sq ft) versus a $450,000 home at 1,600 sq ft ($281/sq ft).
The figure usually reflects finished living area only — garages, patios, and unfinished basements are typically excluded, and land value isn’t separated out.
$/sq ft = total price ÷ area · total = $/sq ft × area
Price per square foot FAQ
How do you calculate price per square foot?
Divide the total price by the square footage. $500,000 ÷ 2,000 sq ft = $250 per sq ft.
What is a good price per square foot?
It varies enormously by market — compare against similar recently sold homes nearby rather than any national figure.
Does price per square foot include the lot?
Generally no — it’s based on finished living area. A big lot adds value the $/sqft figure doesn’t show.
Can I use this for rent?
Yes — monthly rent divided by square footage gives rent per sq ft, handy for comparing apartments.
Is a higher $/sqft always worse?
Not necessarily. Location, age, condition, and finishes all move the number — it’s one comparison metric among many.
Which area counts — gross or living?
Use finished, heated living area (above grade). Garages, decks, and unfinished basements are normally excluded.