Stock house plans typically cost $500 to $5,000, while custom plans from a designer or architect cost about $2,000 to $20,000, according to HomeGuide. Hiring an architect for full design and construction services usually costs 8% to 15% of construction cost for a new custom home. In NAHB’s 2024 survey, architecture and engineering averaged $6,480 per home.
How much do house plans cost?
| Option | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Stock (pre-designed) plans | $500–$5,000 |
| Customizing a stock plan | $100–$250 per hour |
| Custom plans from a draftsperson ($30–$120/hour) | varies with hours |
| Custom plans, design only | $2,000–$20,000 |
| Full-service architect (design to construction) | 8%–15% of construction cost |
How much does an architect cost for a new house?
| Construction budget | At 8% | At 15% |
|---|---|---|
| $300,000 | $24,000 | $45,000 |
| $500,000 | $40,000 | $75,000 |
| $800,000 | $64,000 | $120,000 |
HomeGuide also quotes architect fees of $2 to $15 per sq ft and a national average of about $15,000, across all project types.
Do you need an architect?
Many builders work from stock plans or in-house designs, so a full architect is not always needed. You may also need a structural engineer, a site plan and energy calculations to get a permit. Ask your county what the permit set must include.
Frequently asked questions
Can I draw my own house plans?
Some jurisdictions allow owners to submit their own plans, but most require stamped drawings for structural elements.
Are plans included in the cost to build a house?
Not in most per-sq-ft figures. Builders often include plan costs in the price of a production home.
More cost breakdowns
- Full cost breakdown by stage
- Foundation cost
- Framing cost
- Roofing cost
- Electrical wiring cost
- Material cost
- Land cost
- Septic system cost
- Well drilling cost
- Driveway cost
- House plans cost
Sources
- HomeGuide: How much does an architect cost? (architect fees and house plan prices)
- NAHB: Cost of Constructing a Home in 2024 (survey published January 2025)