How Much Does Hardwood Flooring Cost?
Hardwood flooring costs $6-$12 per sq ft installed. See 2026 pricing for solid, engineered, and exotic hardwood options.
Hardwood floors are one of the most desirable home features, adding warmth and lasting value. Costs vary based on the wood species, whether you choose solid or engineered planks, and the complexity of installation. Here are 2026 hardwood flooring prices.
Cost Breakdown
Solid Oak Hardwood (installed)
Engineered Hardwood (installed)
Exotic Hardwood (Brazilian cherry, walnut)
Hardwood Refinishing (existing floors)
Staircase Hardwood (13-15 stairs)
What Affects the Cost?
Wood Species
Domestic species like oak and maple run $6-10/sq ft. Exotic species like Brazilian cherry or acacia cost $10-18/sq ft.
Solid vs. Engineered
Solid hardwood costs more upfront but can be refinished multiple times. Engineered hardwood is 20-30% cheaper and better for below-grade or humid areas.
Installation Method
Nail-down installation on wood subfloors is standard. Glue-down and floating methods cost 10-15% less in labor but may limit future refinishing.
Finish Type
Pre-finished planks save 1-2 days of on-site work. Site-finished floors allow custom stain colors but add $2-3/sq ft for sanding and finishing.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is engineered hardwood as good as solid hardwood?
Engineered hardwood looks identical to solid and performs better in humidity-prone areas. Solid hardwood can be refinished more times (5-7 vs. 1-3) and lasts 75-100 years compared to 30-50 for engineered.
How long do hardwood floors last?
Solid hardwood floors last 75-100 years with proper care and can be refinished every 10-15 years. Engineered hardwood lasts 30-50 years and can be refinished 1-3 times depending on the veneer thickness.
Can hardwood be installed in kitchens and bathrooms?
Hardwood can work in kitchens with proper sealing, but it is not recommended for bathrooms due to moisture. Engineered hardwood or LVP are better choices for high-moisture areas.
What is the best time of year to install hardwood floors?
Fall and spring are ideal when indoor humidity is moderate. Hardwood needs to acclimate to your home for 3-5 days before installation, so avoid extreme temperature or humidity swings.
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