Methodology
Project Cost Atlas publishes fast budgeting ranges for common home improvement projects. Our pages are designed to answer “How much will this cost?” and to help you get to an accurate quote faster.
What the calculator is doing
Each project has a base range (Low / Typical / High) expressed as a per‑unit price (for example, per sq ft, per linear ft, per window, or per system). Your city page applies a regional multiplier to reflect general labor and material pricing differences across the U.S.
| Step | Explanation |
|---|---|
| 1) Start with base unit pricing | Every project has a baseline per‑unit range built for early budgeting. |
| 2) Multiply by your scope | Area, length, count, or system size based on the project. |
| 3) Apply city multiplier | A regional factor to approximate labor/material differences. |
| 4) Adjust finish level | Basic / Standard / Premium multipliers to reflect material and detail. |
| 5) Add common add‑ons | Optional allowances for demolition/removal, permits, and difficult access. |
How often pages are updated
We update baseline ranges periodically and when large market shifts occur. City multipliers are intended as an approximation and may be adjusted over time. If you notice an estimate that looks wrong for your area, email us and include your scope details.
Contact: contact@projectcostatlas.com
What we don’t do
- We don’t guarantee pricing or contractor availability.
- We don’t provide legal, engineering, or professional contracting advice.
- We don’t claim our estimates are a substitute for local permits, code requirements, or bids.
Transparency: advertising and affiliate relationships
Project Cost Atlas may show ads (e.g., Google AdSense) and may use affiliate links. Ads and affiliate relationships do not determine our estimates. Read our Affiliate Disclosure and Editorial Policy.