How much does it cost to tile a floor?
Tiling a floor yourself typically runs about $3–$12 per square foot in materials. Hiring a pro usually adds roughly $5–$15 per square foot in labor on top. The big variables are the tile you choose and your region, so treat these as planning ranges and confirm local prices.
The cost breakdown
Here's where the money goes on a typical floor-tiling job (US estimates, per square foot unless noted):
| Item | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Tile (budget ceramic) | $1–$3 / sq ft |
| Tile (porcelain) | $3–$7 / sq ft |
| Tile (natural stone) | $5–$15+ / sq ft |
| Thinset mortar & grout | $0.50–$1 / sq ft |
| Backer board / underlayment | $0.50–$1.50 / sq ft |
| Tools (DIY, one-time) | $50–$200 total |
| Professional labor | $5–$15 / sq ft |
So for a 100 sq ft floor, DIY materials often land around $300–$1,000, while a professional installation might total $1,000–$2,500+ depending on the tile and your area.
Estimate your floor in seconds
Use our tile calculator to find how many tiles you need and the material cost, then add labor from the ranges above.
Open the Tile CalculatorDIY vs. hiring a pro
DIY can cut your total nearly in half, since labor is often the biggest line item. Floor tiling is achievable for a patient beginner with the right tools, though a wet saw and a level subfloor are essential. Budget extra time for the first room.
Hiring a pro makes sense for large areas, intricate patterns, natural stone, or anywhere a flawless finish matters (and resale). Get at least three quotes, and confirm whether prep work like leveling and removing old flooring is included.
Ways to save
- Choose larger tiles. They cover faster, with fewer grout lines and less labor.
- Stick to standard sizes. Odd shapes and mosaics raise both waste and labor.
- Do the prep yourself. Removing old flooring and clearing the room can lower a pro's quote.
- Buy the right amount. Order about 10% extra — enough to avoid a second trip, without overspending.