2026 Garage Price Guide: Common Specifications, Types, and Prices
A garage is more than just a place to park your car; it also provides protection from snow and moisture and impacts long-term maintenance costs. However, the price difference between different types, sizes, and construction methods of garages is often greater than expected, ranging from simple single-car wooden garages to integrated garages with insulation and electrical systems, with prices varying by several times. This article systematically introduces common garage specifications and types and their corresponding price ranges, and shares some practical methods for reducing costs without sacrificing safety and durability, helping you plan your garage more effectively.
Designing a garage for 2026 starts with clear goals, site conditions, and a grasp of how materials and options translate into cost. Whether you want a simple storage space or a sturdy workshop, the right size, structure, and finishes will define both performance and price. Below is a practical overview to help you compare types, features, and budgets with confidence.
What are the common garage specifications and types?
Most single car garages fall near 12x20 or 14x24 feet, while two car layouts commonly run 20x20, 22x22, or 24x24. Wall heights of 8 to 10 feet are typical, with roof pitches from 3:12 to 6:12 depending on snow and style. Door widths often range from 8 to 10 feet for single doors and 16 to 18 feet for double doors. Prefab options include enclosed metal garages, portable wood or vinyl buildings on skids, and modular wood framed units delivered in sections. Siding choices include painted steel, vinyl, engineered wood, and fiber cement. Floors may be concrete slabs, pressure treated skids on gravel, or piers, depending on code and intended use.
Prices of different types and sizes of garages
Real world pricing varies by region and features, but broad ranges can anchor a budget. Enclosed metal garages around 12x20 often start near 4,000 to 8,000 installed without a slab. Wood or vinyl single car modular units in similar sizes commonly run 8,000 to 18,000 delivered and set, excluding slab. Two car metal garages around 24x24 may range 7,000 to 15,000 installed, while modular wood framed two car models often land 20,000 to 45,000 or more. Larger footprints like 24x30 can reach 28,000 to 60,000 depending on materials and options. Typical concrete slabs run about 6 to 12 per square foot, or roughly 1,500 to 3,000 for a 12x20 and 3,500 to 7,000 for a 24x24. Electrical runs might add 800 to 2,500, and permits frequently cost 100 to 1,500 depending on jurisdiction.
Key factors affecting garage prices
Size is the primary driver, followed by structure type and loads. Heavier snow or wind ratings may require stronger framing, thicker steel panels, closer truss spacing, or additional anchors. Doors and openings add cost quickly; a single 16 foot insulated overhead door can rival several windows combined. Finish level matters too, from basic primed sheathing to fully finished interiors with insulation, drywall, and electrical packages. Foundation choices also influence budgets: skids on gravel are economical, while full slabs, frost footings, or stem walls add more. Site prep, access for delivery or crane set, and distance based delivery fees can shift totals as well. Regional labor and material pricing, along with local code requirements, round out the cost picture.
What are some ways to save money on a garage?
Lean on standard sizes offered by popular vendors to avoid custom engineering or special order doors. A simple gable roof with a low to moderate pitch typically costs less than complex hips or dormers. Choosing an enclosed metal building over stick framed construction can trim thousands when aesthetics allow. Keep window and door counts lean and opt for non insulated doors if the space will not be conditioned. Complete your own site prep and gravel base where allowed and safe, and request multiple quotes for concrete since slab rates vary widely. Bundling installation with materials from a single provider can reduce coordination costs, and selecting in stock colors can avoid surcharges.
Affordable garages
For the tightest budgets, an enclosed metal single car unit can be attainable in the mid four figures before slab and power. With 5,000 to 10,000, expect a basic 12x20 metal garage or an entry level portable wood option on skids. Budgets from 10,000 to 25,000 cover many well equipped single car builds or modest two car metal structures. Above 25,000, modular two car wood framed garages with better finishes, insulation, and higher load ratings become realistic. Always confirm whether the quoted price includes delivery, installation, slab, anchors, permits, and electrical to avoid surprises.
Provider examples and sample pricing
Below are well known providers and indicative ranges for common configurations. Offerings, specs, and installation terms vary by region, and many quotes exclude slabs and electrical.
| Product or Service | Provider | Cost Estimation |
|---|---|---|
| 12x20 enclosed metal garage installed | Alans Factory Outlet | 4,000–8,000 plus, slab extra |
| 20x20 enclosed metal garage installed | Carolina Carports | 5,000–10,000 plus, slab extra |
| 24x24 garage kit materials only | Menards | 7,000–15,000 plus, add labor and slab |
| 24x24 garage package materials only | 84 Lumber | 9,000–18,000 plus, add labor and slab |
| Single car modular 12x20 wood or vinyl | Tuff Shed | 10,000–20,000 plus, slab extra |
| Single car portable 12x20 on skids | Old Hickory Buildings | 6,000–12,000 plus, delivery terms vary |
| Two car modular 24x24 wood framed | Sheds Unlimited | 25,000–45,000 plus, slab extra |
| Two car modular 24x24 wood framed | Horizon Structures | 30,000–60,000 plus, slab extra |
Prices, rates, or cost estimates mentioned in this article are based on the latest available information but may change over time. Independent research is advised before making financial decisions.
Conclusion
Selecting a garage is a balance of size, structural needs, materials, and finish level against a target budget. Start with a clear footprint and load requirements, then compare standard packages from multiple vendors with identical assumptions for slab, delivery, installation, and permits. With realistic ranges and a focus on essentials, it is possible to meet storage or workshop goals without overspending.
