How Much Does It Cost to Stucco a House?
$8,000 – $30,000
National average: $18,000
Estimate your cost
Adjust the options for a tailored ballpark — figures and the regional adjustment are approximate estimates. Always confirm with local quotes before you budget.
Stucco is a durable, distinctive siding common in warm and southwestern climates. Applying it to an average home costs $8,000 to $30,000 in 2026, or about $7–$17 per square foot installed — for a 2,000-square-foot house, roughly $14,000–$34,000.
What you’re paying for
Stucco is a multi-layer system: a moisture barrier and lath, then the stucco coats, then the finish texture and color. You’re paying for material, skilled labor (it’s a craft), and — on a re-side — removing the old siding and prepping the wall. Repairs to damaged sheathing found during prep add cost.
Cost by type
The two main systems differ in price and properties. The table below shows typical installed pricing per square foot.
Traditional vs. EIFS
Traditional 3-coat stucco is cement-based, extremely durable, and the classic choice. EIFS (Exterior Insulation and Finish System) is a synthetic, foam-backed system that adds insulation and is lighter — but it demands meticulous moisture detailing, since trapped water is its weak point. For most homes, traditional stucco is the safer, longest-lasting bet.
The durability payoff
Stucco’s higher upfront cost buys longevity: a well-installed, maintained stucco exterior lasts 50–80 years, far longer than vinyl or wood. Maintenance is modest — inspect for cracks, seal them, and repaint periodically. That long life is central to its value case.
How to save on stucco
- Choose traditional 3-coat for durability per dollar.
- Re-stucco over a suitable existing surface where a pro confirms it’s safe.
- Address moisture and cracks early to avoid costly water damage.
- Get quotes from stucco specialists, not general siding crews.
| Component | Typical range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Stucco material | $5 – $9 / sq ft | — |
| Labor | $2 – $8 / sq ft | — |
| Lath & moisture barrier | $1 – $3 / sq ft | — |
| Old siding removal | $1,000 – $3,000 | — |
| Finish / texture & color | included – $2 / sq ft | — |
| Option | Typical range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional 3-coat | $6 – $9 / sq ft | Cement-based, most durable |
| Synthetic (EIFS) | $8 – $12 / sq ft | Insulating, lighter |
| Re-stucco over existing | $5 – $9 / sq ft | — |
| New install w/ lath & prep | $9 – $17 / sq ft | — |
What affects the price
- Type Traditional cement stucco vs. synthetic EIFS differ in cost, weight, and insulation.
- Home size & stories More wall area and added height raise both material and labor.
- Prep & removal Removing old siding and prepping the surface adds cost on a re-side.
- Finish & texture Custom textures and integral color can add to the finish cost.
- Repairs Fixing sheathing or moisture damage found during prep adds cost.
Frequently asked questions
- How much does it cost to stucco a house?
- For a 2,000-square-foot home, stucco runs about $14,000–$34,000, or $7–$17 per square foot installed. Smaller homes or re-stucco jobs can be less.
- Traditional stucco vs. EIFS — what's the difference?
- Traditional 3-coat stucco is cement-based and very durable ($6–$9/sq ft). EIFS (synthetic) is a foam-backed system that adds insulation and is lighter ($8–$12/sq ft) but needs careful moisture detailing.
- How long does stucco last?
- Properly installed and maintained stucco lasts 50–80 years — one of the longest-lasting siding options. Periodic sealing and crack repair extend its life.
- Can you stucco over existing siding?
- Sometimes, over certain surfaces with proper prep and lath, which can lower cost. A pro should confirm your existing wall is suitable; otherwise removal is needed.
- Does stucco crack?
- Small hairline cracks are normal and easily patched. Larger cracks can signal moisture or structural issues and should be addressed promptly to prevent water intrusion.
- Is stucco low-maintenance?
- Relatively — mainly periodic inspection, crack sealing, and occasional repainting. Its durability is a big part of the value despite the higher upfront cost.
How we estimate: ranges reflect typical U.S. pricing for materials and professional installation, compiled and cross-checked against the current (2026) industry sources listed below (see our data & methodology). Your actual cost depends on your location, project size, material grade, and local labor rates — always get multiple written quotes before you commit.
Sources
Cost ranges on this page were checked against current (2026) data from these industry sources:
- How Much Does It Cost To Stucco A House? (2026 Prices) — HomeGuide
- Stucco Siding Cost: DIY vs. Pro (2026) — This Old House
- Cost to Install Stucco (2026) — Homewyse