How much does a standard greenhouse cost?

Greenhouses are an enormous asset for homeowners who enjoy growing their own fruits, veggies, and herbs, but how much do they cost? A professionally built greenhouse costs around $11,000, with most homeowners paying between $2,000 and $25,000.

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For a smaller growing space at a considerably cheaper price, homeowners can install a smaller, prefabricated greenhouse, buy a greenhouse kit, or DIY it. Whatever option you choose, there are a few universal greenhouse elements that will allow you to build the ideal greenhouse for your needs.

Average greenhouse costs in 2024

National average cost$11,000Typical price range$2,000 – $25,000Extreme low-end cost$1,000Extreme high-end cost$30,000

The cost to install a greenhouse varies depending on a variety of criteria. In a large conservatory or greenhouse, the materials you choose and whether you install water, a heating system, and ventilation fans all influence the price.

You may not need these bells and whistles in a small greenhouse to keep your plants happy, which will drastically lower your costs. A large greenhouse with all the amenities will have higher upfront costs to build.

Greenhouse cost estimator by size

The biggest cost consideration is size. If you have a small to mid-sized greenhouse, you may not need to invest in a heater, water lines, or electricity. As your garden grows, so will the importance of these systems.

Typical residential greenhouses cost between $5 to $30 per square foot or $22 per square foot on average The following table shows the typical price ranges for installing a backyard greenhouse.

Project size Average overall cost 50 square feet$250 – $1,500300 square feet$1,500 – $9,000600 square feet$3,000 – $18,000

Other factors that affect cost

Type of greenhouse

After size, the type of greenhouse and the materials used for the floor, framing, and walls will have a considerable impact on the cost.

Greenhouse styleAverage price (per square foot)Hoop house$5 – $10Rooftop$10 – $20Geodesic$10 – $25A-frame$25 – $35

Hoop house

Half-tunnel-shaped greenhouses are known as hoop houses. They are a straightforward method of extending the growing season, usually composed of steel frames and inexpensive  plastic sheeting.

A hoop greenhouse usually costs between $5 and $10 per square foot.

Rooftop greenhouse

Growing your own food in the constrained space of a large city is known as urban gardening. Rooftop greenhouses are becoming more and more popular as a way to safeguard your investment.

A rooftop greenhouse typically costs between $10 and $20 per square foot.

Geodesic greenhouse

Because of the curved surfaces of geodesic greenhouses, plants can catch more sunlight. They are also more durable and resistant to storms and snow than square greenhouse designs. 

A geodesic greenhouse costs between $10 and  $25 per square foot.

A-frame greenhouse

A-frame greenhouses can be constructed using a variety of materials. From recycled or brand-new,  aluminum, galvanized steel, wood, and PVC are all options.

Glass A-frame greenhouses are more expensive to make and require costlier, stronger materials to make them sturdy enough to deal with snowfall. Despite their higher cost, the A-frame style is used by both home and commercial gardeners.

A-frame greenhouses typically cost between $25 and $35 per square foot.

Floor

For your greenhouse, a variety of flooring options are available. Unless your installer needs to level it, one choice is to leave a dirt or grass floor, which is free. The drawback to using a natural floor is it can get muddy. Rubber mats are a cheap and easy solution and average $2.00 a square foot.

The prices of common greenhouse flooring choices are listed below.

Flooring materialAverage price (per square foot)Rubber mats$2.00Landscaping fabric$0.45 – $0.80Pea Gravel$0.86 – $3.78Concrete$8.00 – $18.00Pavers$8.00 – $24.00

Frame

Once you’ve opted for a design, you’ll need to choose the frame. Your greenhouse’s frame is its actual construction or skeleton. The frame material you select can have a significant effect on the total price of your installation. Materials range from $1.00 to $2.50 per square foot.

Frame materialAverage price (per square foot)Wood$1.00PVC pipe$1.25Aluminum$1.50Steel$2.50

Glaze

The term “glazing” refers to any material used to cover or fit the frame of the greenhouse and is a major cost consideration. The materials for the greenhouse walls range from $0.20 to $2.60 per square foot.

Glaze materialAverage price (per square foot)Greenhouse plastic (polyethylene film)$0.20Polycarbonate panels$1.65Glass panels$2.60

Insulation

The cost of a greenhouse is also influenced by the type of insulation used. Your plants need a controlled environment with the correct humidity and temperature, which is made possible by proper insulation. Effective insulation can reduce energy costs and save your plants. You can expect to pay between $1.50 to $4.00 per square foot for insulation.

Insulation materialAverage price (per square foot)Base cladding (protective layering material)$1.50 – $3.00Thermal screens$1.50 – $4.00Double-pane glass$2.50 – $3.50Bubble wrap$2.60 – $3.00

Utilities

A few greenhouses include plumbing, fans, and electricity, but going beyond the essentials raises the price. Most installations for utilities also require hiring a contractor, whose rates range from $45 to $150 an hour. You may need:

• Plumbing for irrigation system and drainage
  
• Electricity for grow lights, plumbing, and climate control
  
• HVAC or climate control equipment like heaters and fans

Solar greenhouse panels can save you money on electricity, but the initial cost is higher, with an average cost of $35 to $45 per square foot.

Average contractor rates

Contractor specialtyAverage rate (per hour)Plumber$45 – $150Electrician$45 – $100HVAC$60 – $150

Climate control equipment

EquipmentAverage cost (per item)Fans$25 – $150Heaters$55 – $270

Permits

Building permits determine how your greenhouse is built, and zoning regulations govern where it is placed on your property. Rooftop greenhouses are the most difficult to get approval for since urban areas typically have more restrictions than rural ones.

If you hire a professional for the installation, they should have all the necessary permits, but you should verify that when getting an estimate. For DIY projects, check with your local zoning office to avoid fines or having to remove your greenhouse later. Permits for greenhouses typically cost between $100 and $600.

Site preparation

If the land is not ready for construction, the cost of your greenhouse will be higher overall. When constructing a greenhouse, you must ensure that the ground is open and level. Land clearing and excavating will be the most costly. You may need to prep the site by:

• Clearing the space and removing bushes or trees
• Removing the grass
• Excavating the site to install the greenhouse base
• Grading or leveling uneven areas

Related services 

Bundling services with the installation of your new greenhouse by your greenhouse pro or contractor may save you time and money in the long run.

Irrigation and drainage

A successful garden needs regular watering. For smaller greenhouses, watering cans are sufficient. Avoid using a sprayer attached to your hose as the force of the spray can spread mold spores. However, you may consider having gutters installed to catch rainwater or installing a misting system.

A simple and inexpensive option to store water for your plants is to use rain barrels to collect runoff from the roof. A single 40- to 60-gallon rain barrel costs roughly $140 on average but can range between $120 and $160.

In order to prevent mud and mold from growing more than your vegetables, make sure that the water in your garden goes somewhere, such as a French drain or a channel for the water to drip down and escape. A French drain costs as little as $500 to install, but depending on other factors, they average $2,800 to $6,500.

Shelves or benches

If your greenhouse design hasn’t already incorporated shelves or a table, consider adding them. Shelves and benches will not only give you more space for your plants but also a worktop for potting plants. Shelving runs, on average, between $45 and $620 depending on materials, size, and number of shelves.

Plant shade trees

Sometimes, the best spot for your zoning permit isn’t the best for your greenhouse. You can protect your greenhouse against harsh winds and high heat by planting shade trees nearby. The national average cost for planting a tree, which includes the tree and labor, ranges from $150 to $1,850.

Install garden beds

If your greenhouse is primarily used to keep your plants alive during the winter, ornamental beds are an excellent summer home for them. A flower bed improves the appearance of your yard and increases your home’s curb appeal. 

A 5 by 12-foot flower bed costs about $2,500, including materials and labor. A raised garden bed kit ranges in price from $105 to $210.

Pro cost vs. DIY cost

DIY is an excellent alternative for handy homeowners who want to build a greenhouse but do not want to invest a lot of money. You can save money by building your own greenhouse, provided you have the necessary skills and supplies. 

DIY greenhouses cost roughly 40% less than a professional installation would.

Professional greenhouse installation$11,000DIY greenhouse installation$5,000

Online and at your local hardware store, you can find low-cost greenhouse kits and building materials.

DIY equipment and materialsAverage material costsDIY greenhouse kit $4,000Level$35Tape measure$18Hammer$18Work gloves$18Utility knife$12Garden spade$12Garden rake$28Ladder$125Scissors$13Utility knife$12Landscape fabric$200Landscape staples$27Impact driver (rental)$25 (per day)Pea gravel$464 (for about 200 sq. ft.)Total DIY Cost $4,995

Cost of a greenhouse by location

Depending on where you live, labor rates may be higher than what’s estimated in this article, such as rural areas versus urban or residential neighborhoods. The cost of living in your state can make a significant difference, as well. 

Additional reading:
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For more information, please visit multispan greenhouses.

Money-saving tips when building a greenhouse

• Multiple quotes: It’s recommended that when using a contractor, you get multiple estimates and verify that everything you want for your ideal greenhouse is included in the quote.
  
• Recycled materials: Contact your builder or friends to see if they have any spare or leftover materials you can use for the greenhouse project. Recyclable materials include plastic sheeting, concrete pavers, and gravel.
  
• Realistic budget: Ultimately, the entire project boils down to the budget. Saving money is great, but cutting corners can cost you in the long run. It is often recommended for first-time greenhouse owners to leave room for expansion or plan for a greenhouse they can grow into.

FAQ

Do I need a permit to install a small greenhouse?

That depends. Many small home greenhouses won’t require any special building permits, but it’s best to check with your local zoning office to make sure. 

Should I use glass panels in my greenhouse?

Glass is an excellent greenhouse panel material. In addition to providing excellent light penetration, glass also adds curb appeal. On the other hand, it is more expensive than plastic and is costly to replace if damaged.

Can a greenhouse handle snow?

Yes, geodesic greenhouses work well. Make certain that the greenhouse design or kit you select has a sturdy construction and roof trusses or gables to handle heavier snow and strong winds.

Final thoughts 

When planning to install your greenhouse, take a look at your whole landscape design for your current or future projects. Adding stone or gravel walkways, privacy hedges, or a new patio can enhance your environment even more. Hiring professional installers can help you create the backyard oasis you’ve always wanted.

Note: LawnLove may get a referral fee for matching you with contractors in your area.

Main Image Credit: W.carter | Wikimedia Commons | CC0 1.0

Raven Wisdom

Raven Wisdom is a screenwriter from West Texas and a proud mom of two in an autism family. Self-described as "half-feral but mostly harmless," Raven loves houseplants, a good laugh, and furry friends. Posts by Raven Wisdom

Raven Wisdom is a screenwriter from West Texas and a proud mom of two in an autism family. Self-described as "half-feral but mostly harmless," Raven loves houseplants, a good laugh, and furry friends.

Building a commercial greenhouse can be a rewarding project for professional growers. A fully functional controlled environment agriculture (CEA) facility offers an unparalleled command of growing conditions to promote better quality crops and higher yields. A commercial greenhouse can drive efficiency and even reduce operating costs over time.

However, a commercial greenhouse is a serious investment and there are considerable costs involved with construction, installation, and other building requirements. Many of these costs could be expected with any commercial construction project. But since commercial greenhouses provide a fully controlled growing environment, there are unique expenses associated with commercial greenhouse construction costs.

Commercial greenhouse costs can vary greatly. Knowing what goes into building a CEA growing facility and the related average costs can be instrumental in understanding what contributes to the overall price of building a commercial greenhouse.

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When Is the Right Time to Build A Commercial Greenhouse

Commercial greenhouses are meant for large-scale growing operations. There are plenty of great greenhouse construction options available for hobbyist growers but the high-tech equipment, size of facilities, and even quality of materials are specific to commercial greenhouses.

For those just starting out in agribusiness, a fully outfitted commercial greenhouse is probably not the right choice. But established farmers looking to diversify their operations are perfect candidates for commercial-scale indoor growing.

There’s never been a better time to build a commercial greenhouse. CEA-driven growing operations are becoming more popular than ever, with an 115% increase in greenhouse vegetable farms in the US since 20101.

As global warming and extreme weather events continue to disrupt growing around the world, the food security of millions may depend on stable indoor growing. There’s a real need for an alternative to conventional farming, and commercial greenhouses provide a peerless solution.

For commercial growers frustrated with the limits of traditional outdoor farming, CEA facilities provide greater control to cultivate greater crops. Plants can be grown far beyond their regular growing season, which allows farmers to meet the increasing demands of consumers who want fresh local produce all year round.

But before starting a commercial greenhouse project, there are some construction factors that should be evaluated to better understand commercial greenhouse cost. 

Planning is crucial when it comes to managing commercial greenhouse construction costs. Expenses can accumulate quickly, so it’s important to consider every square foot of the facility before committing to building. 

Commercial greenhouse construction depends on the availability of commercial real estate with sufficient space to build, enough sunlight and water to satisfy indoor growing needs, and room to expand operations in the future.

The right location is highly important, and zoning regulations and local construction laws should be considered for the best building outcomes. Also, choosing the type of greenhouse structure and the type of crops beforehand will help to streamline construction operations.

And of course, having strong funding to cover commercial greenhouse construction costs is essential. Whether it’s a construction loan, capital from investors, or any other type of financial backing, commercial greenhouses cost per square foot can be substantial and finances need to be in order before beginning the project.

Budgeting Your Commercial Greenhouse

The construction of a commercial greenhouse depends on factors like cost of labor, materials, and various construction fees. Installation, operation, and maintenance of an indoor farming facility come at a higher cost than conventional open field farming, and budgeting ahead of time can spare growers headaches later. The structural frame and covering material will be significant expenses but there are other commercial greenhouse construction costs that should also be factored into the budget of the project.

Important things to budget for include: 

• Irrigation system
• Heating system
• Lighting system
• Material costs
• HVAC and filtration system
• Carbon dioxide fertilization system
• Staffing and labor
• Energy costs

What is the Construction Cost per Square Foot for a Commercial Greenhouse?

Average commercial greenhouse cost is usually about $25 per square foot.2 So, a standard 1,000 square foot greenhouse would probably cost about $25,000 to build.3 This price is influenced by market conditions around the price of steel and framing materials, supply chain efficiency, and even consumer demand for building materials. And the more sophisticated the technology incorporated into a commercial greenhouse is, the higher the price per square foot.

Commercial greenhouse construction costs can vary wildly depending on the growing needs of the operation. And while $25 per square foot is an average price, that cost per square foot can be influenced by a wide variety of factors.

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Factors Influencing The Overall Cost Of Your Commercial Greenhouse

Commercial greenhouses are highly customizable. It’s unlikely to find two commercial

growing operations with matching structure, layout, and equipment. Different crops have different growing requirements which dictate the overall commercial greenhouse costs. But while there are many factors affecting the overall cost of your commercial greenhouse, most can be adjusted to fit your budget.

Covering Material

The covering material of a greenhouse is essential in controlling the amount of light and heat that a greenhouse receives, as well as regulating energy costs. There are several types of covering material for commercial greenhouses, each with their own unique benefits.

Glass

If properly cared for, glass material can provide superior light transmission and light clarity than polycarbonate. It’s generally more aesthetically pleasing than polycarbonate and is usually available in a variety of layering options to promote ventilation and insulation. Glass greenhouses are also highly resilient to fire, rain, and snow and can resist UV damage. On average, glass siding can cost about $2.50 per square foot.4

Polycarbonate

Polycarbonate is more durable and cost-effective than glass. It can also retain heat more efficiently and provide protection from harmful UV rays. Polycarbonate is flexible and can be more easily shaped to the specific structural requirements of a Greenhouse. Depending on the grade, polycarbonate costs between $0.90 and $2.20  per square foot.5

Polyethylene Film

Like polycarbonate, polyethylene film is a flexible covering material available in various thicknesses. Often used to cover a hoop greenhouse, this is perhaps the easiest covering material to install at the most cost effective price. Poly film products with UV additives are highly efficient at transmitting light and promoting air circulation. However, polyethylene is prone to damage and is the least durable of any covering material for greenhouses. This material is relatively inexpensive and can cost as little as $0.12 per square foot.6

Acrylic 

Rigid acrylic panels are a highly durable covering material that can last for decades with proper care. Acrylic covering materials are sold in multiple layers to provide optimum insulation. This material is lightweight and flexible and can be cut and bent to custom sizes. It’s weather resistant and offers high light transmission. While not quite as fragile as glass, acrylic panels do need to be treated with more care than polycarbonate or polyethylene products. Depending on thickness, acrylic converting can cost between $1.95 to $3.00 per square foot.7

Frame Material

Frame material is crucial for ensuring the structural integrity of commercial greenhouses. While PVC frames are perfectly appropriate for home growing projects, commercial operations need more durable options.

The two primary frame materials used in commercial operations are metal and wood, which each have their own respective subcategories. Wood materials can cost as low as $1.00 per linear foot while steel frames are usually priced at about $2.50 per square foot.8

Metal frame material has a greater initial cost but is far less susceptible to damage and will generally last longer than wooden materials.

Temperature Controls

Properly regulated temperatures give greenhouse farmers the ability to grow quality crops in virtually any climate. Thermostats and heat sensors are essential for maintaining optimal growing conditions and preventing plant stress. Heaters powered by natural gas or propane can be easily regulated with proper controls.

Electronic thermostats have been widely adopted for use in commercial greenhouses. They can be integrated with heating and cooling systems and even automated to provide immediate adjustments to the indoor climate. An electronic thermostat for commercial use can cost between $600 to $1500 to install.9

Irrigation

Most commercial greenhouses use overhead sprinklers or drip irrigation systems to provide water to their plants. These irrigation methods can be automated for consistent, regular watering or even managed by an artificial intelligence (AI) software to provide precise amounts of water exactly when plants need it.

The largest and most complex sprinkler systems can cost up to $12 per square foot.10 A commercial grade drip irrigation system can cost between $450 to $624 to install.11

Lighting

Lighting considerations are important for commercial greenhouse growers. Many commercial greenhouses are now relying on LED grow lights to provide extra illumination. LED grow lights are energy efficient, long-lasting,  and have a flexible light spectrum that can be adjusted to the tastes of particular greenhouse crops. On average, LED lights cost $0.13 cents to run per kilowatt-hour per light or about $47 per month.12

HVAC Systems

A quality HVAC system helps to regulate temperature and airflow in a greenhouse building. These systems can be installed as a unit or separated into individual components of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. A typical HVAC system for a commercial greenhouse can cost $5,000 or more to install. Ventilation fans usually cost $125 on average.13

Flooring

Flooring isn’t necessarily vital for greenhouses but it can make a noticeable difference in pest control, weed growth, and insulation. The right flooring can also provide extra support to employees working on their feet. Concrete flooring can cost between $2.00 and $6.00 per square foot while rolled rubber flooring is usually available for around $2.00 per square foot.14

What Size Should Your Commercial Greenhouse Be?

The size of your commercial greenhouse should depend on the size of your operations. 

Generally, the larger the size of a greenhouse, the more it will cost to build. But that’s not necessarily bad news. A large-scale commercial greenhouse will be able to accommodate more plants and produce higher yields, translating to bigger profits.

Most commercial greenhouses are at least 20 feet wide by 300 feet long for a total of 6,000 square feet.15 Really, there’s no industry specified standard size for greenhouses, and the exact dimensions of the facility are up to the grower and their desired amount of growing space. 

But bigger is usually better when it comes to commercial plant growth and cultivation. Larger size allows for optimized placement of crops, aisles, benches, and other greenhouse building standards. 

Larger greenhouses are generally better suited for high quality equipment and technology. It wouldn’t make much financial sense to install an automated irrigation system in a mid-scale rooftop greenhouse, hydroponic greenhouse, or pit greenhouse, but cutting-edge agriculture technology is perfectly suited for commercial growing. 

The Prospiant Solution

If you need a technology-backed commercial greenhouse solution that works with your budget, trust Prospiant. We strive to provide our partners with all the support they need to accelerate their controlled environment agriculture efforts.

At Prospiant, we help you create a complete produce ecosystem. From architectural design to general contracting and HVAC, your partners at Prospiant will support you through every square foot of the commercial greenhouse construction process. We know the right type of structure, construction materials, and equipment for you to achieve sustained growing and cultivation success.

Prospiant is your source for cost-effective commercial greenhouse cultivation facilities — all backed by decades of in-house expertise. We’ll guide you through every square foot of your project, ensuring that your greenhouse aligns with your operational goals.

We specialize in designing and building controlled environment agriculture solutions for businesses of all sizes. You’ll get a complete produce ecosystem tailored to your unique needs with all the support you need for greenhouse farming success. Whether you specialize in one crop or want to grow a variety of fruits and vegetables, we have the solution for you.

When you need to set up, get growing, prove profitability, and scale fast, choose Prospiant.

FAQs

How much does a 500-square-foot greenhouse cost?

The cost of building a 500-square-foot greenhouse can vary based on several factors, including the specific crops grown, geographic location, terrain, greenhouse type, and more.

Fluctuations in material costs due to supply chain issues and demand can also impact overall expenses. Installation costs are subject to variations based on individual preferences. Conducting thorough research, consulting with a knowledgeable supplier, obtaining accurate quotes, and more are essential to determining an accurate price. Doing your due diligence in these areas will ensure that the greenhouse you select meets your growing needs and fits your budget.

How much does it cost to build a 1-acre greenhouse?

A one-acre greenhouse would be a massive growing facility reserved for only the most competitive commercial farming operations. The cost of building such a large facility can vary based on several factors, including the specific crops grown, geographic location, terrain, greenhouse type, and more.

Fluctuations in material costs due to supply chain issues and demand can also impact overall expenses. Installation costs are subject to variations based on individual preferences. Conducting thorough research, consulting with a knowledgeable supplier, obtaining accurate quotes, and more are essential to determining an accurate price. Doing your due diligence in these areas will ensure that the greenhouse you select meets your growing needs and fits your budget.

What is a good size for a commercial greenhouse?

While there’s no specific standard size for a commercial greenhouse, most are at least 20 feet wide. This width can accommodate more plant growth space, aisles, and benches for optimal productivity.

Citations

1https://www.hortidaily.com/article/37151/New-North-American-greenhouse-statistics-available/
2https://www.homeadvisor.com/cost/outdoor-living/build-a-greenhouse/
3https://www.forbes.com/advisor/home-improvement/greenhouse-cost/
4https://www.forbes.com/advisor/home-improvement/greenhouse-cost/
5https://www.usgr.com/greenhouse-coverings/greenhouse-coverings/#:~:text=Polycarbonate%20costs%20from%20%240.90%20to,depending%20on%20grade%20and%20quantity.
6https://www.forbes.com/advisor/home-improvement/greenhouse-cost/
7https://www.usgr.com/greenhouse-coverings/greenhouse-coverings/#:~:text=Polycarbonate%20costs%20from%20%240.90%20to,depending%20on%20grade%20and%20quantity
8https://www.forbes.com/advisor/home-improvement/greenhouse-cost/
9https://www.alliedbuildings.com/commercial-greenhouse/
10https://www.made-in-china.com/products-search/hot-china-products/Greenhouse_Irrigation_System_Price.html
11https://www.angi.com/articles/drip-irrigation-cuts-down-yard-work-water-usage.htm
12https://www.dormgrow.com/blog/how-much-will-it-cost-to-run-led-grow-lights/
13https://www.alliedbuildings.com/commercial-greenhouse/
14https://www.forbes.com/advisor/home-improvement/greenhouse-cost/
15https://www.ourendangeredworld.com/eco/commercial-greenhouse-construction-costs-per-square-foot/

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