Quarterly Price Updates April 2026

Updated material prices available now

Every quarter Clear Estimates updates the material price for every region in the U.S., for all 10,000 parts in the database. These updates are automatically available in your Clear Estimates Software. Check out how the prices of different projects have changed regionally this past quarter!

Check out how the cost of a 200 sq. foot kitchen remodel has changed since last quarter:

• Northeast:  +0.3%
• Southeast: +0.4%
• Midwest: +0.5%
• Southwest: +1.0%
• West: +1.6%

See how the cost of an 800 sq. foot home addition has changed since last quarter:

• Northeast: +1.8%
• Southeast: +2.1%
• Midwest: +1.9%
• Southwest: +2.7%
• West: +3.1%

NEW: Part Analysis “Deep Dive”

We’re committed to delivering the most accurate and up-to-date pricing data in the residential construction industry, drawn from a broad network of trusted sources. This section offers a behind-the-scenes look at the data and analysis that make that possible.

In Northern climates, contractors need to delay larger projects until the spring thaw, when conditions are more suitable for concrete work. April is a classic time for these contractors to begin footing & foundation work ahead of the prime season. In this update we will take a closer look at a 16” wide continuous footing, 36” deep.

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The top-left chart highlights regional differences in projected material costs, with the Northeast and parts of California exhibiting higher pricing than the rest of the continental US. Hawaii (not shown) is higher than anywhere in the continental US with costs averaging as high as $46/LF. The bottom chart tracks the national average cost, showing a steady upward march over time. We expect this pattern to continue with a modest 0.5% increase nationally next quarter, though parts of the Southwest will see increases exceeding 1.1%.

Here are some other trends:

• Nationwide Increase in Insulation Costs: After a significant drop last quarter, insulation costs have rebounded, with a net double digit percentage increase across all regions relative to the end of 2025.
• Decreasing Costs for Roofing: In another trend reversal, costs for asphalt roofing materials decreased by -6% after surging by +9.4% the previous quarter. By contrast, the West saw a drop of just -1.4%.
• Stud Costs on the Rise: The average cost of a stud is up by +4.4%, with the West leading the charge with a +9.4% bump. 
• More Unpredictability with Dimensional Lumber: Dimensional lumber is still showing atypical patterns following a relatively volatile first quarter. At the moment the Northeast is set to see a reduction in cost of -6.8% but in all other regions costs will rise. The most extreme increase was seen in the West at +10.7%.
• Drywall Costs Up Coast to Coast: After the uncharacteristic dip observed last quarter, we expect drywall costs to rebound with a national average increase of +18%. The biggest effects will be felt in the West while the Midwest will be spared with a modest +4.5% increase.

We look forward to bringing you new and exciting information on pricing trends every quarter! Stay tuned for the next update.