Framing Cost Per Square Foot in Minnesota (2026)

Short answer: $8–$25 per square foot for labor plus lumber. Garages and simple ramblers sit at $8–$14, standard two-story homes at $12–$19, and complex customs at $18–$25. Where you land inside the range is decided by roof complexity, wall height, and the lumber market on the day you sign.

The Ranges by Project

Project	$/sq ft (labor + lumber)
Detached garage (trussed)	$8 – $14
Rambler / single story	$10 – $16
Two-story, standard complexity	$12 – $19
Custom with vaults / dormers	$18 – $25
Multi-family (per building, bid lump-sum)	quoted from plans

Why the Range Is So Wide

Two houses with identical square footage can carry very different framing prices. The big three variables:

1. Roof complexity. A trussed gable roof flies together. Hips, valleys, dormers, and hand-stacked vaults multiply hours faster than any other line item.
2. Wall height. Nine- and ten-foot walls, two-story foyers, and tall gable ends add material, staging, and time.
3. Lumber market. Material is roughly half the package at normal prices. A 20% lumber move swings your total by 10%.

Labor vs. Lumber

At typical 2026 prices the package splits close to 50/50 labor and material. Framing bids usually hold their price 30–60 days; if you're deciding between spring and fall starts, watch the lumber futures — timing your contract well can pay for your appliances.

Comparing Bids Without Getting Burned

• Same scope? Floors, walls, roof, sheathing, wrap — confirm what's in and out of every number.
• Whose crew? A bid from a broker who subs the work is a different risk than a company fielding its own crews.
• Price protection? Ask how long the number holds and what happens if lumber moves.
• Insurance? Certificates before anyone climbs your foundation.

Run your own numbers with our framing cost calculator, read the full framing cost guide, or send plans through the bid request form for a real package price.