How Much Does An Architect Cost To Draw Plans

Whether you’re just sprucing up your space or building your dream home, there’s one step you can’t skip: getting detailed and reliable construction plans. While architects are the usual go-to professionals for these, they can be a costly option. But how much does an architect cost to draw plans? And is it your only option?

In this article, we break down the cost of an architect to draw house plans and discuss other alternatives that might better fit your project and budget.

Most architects charge a fixed fee for drawing plans, ranging anywhere from $2,000 to $20,000.

The cost to have an architect draw plans depends on how big or complex the project is, so some architects use these pricing models:

• Hourly rates ($100 to $250) for small projects.
• Percentage of total project cost (5 to 20%) for larger buildings.
• Price by square footage ($2 to $15 per square foot) for new constructions.

Charging by square footage isn’t as common, but it’s an option—especially if you want to avoid open-ended hourly billing or don’t need full-service project management. With this method, you typically start with concept development and drafts at the lower end of the price range. If you need construction documents, additional revisions, or project administration, the per-square-foot price will increase accordingly.

Ultimately, which model you’ll encounter depends on your architect and the type of services you need. Simpler projects often stick to hourly rates or lower fixed fees, while more involved jobs—like custom homes or major remodels—may use a percentage of construction costs or square footage pricing.

It’s important to note that architects bill for their services in several ways, and it’s not uncommon for them to combine payment methods depending on the specific project. Fees can fluctuate significantly based on a range of factors: the project’s size and complexity, the architect’s fee structure, the type of services they offer, your location, and even whether you’re working with a seasoned professional or a newer architect just starting out.

And if you’re just after a specific part of the plans, the cost for the architect to draw up plans varies by type. For instance, a site plan would set you back anywhere between $300 to $1,000, while a structural drawing usually costs around $500 to $2,000.

Why Do Remodels Generally Cost More in Architect Fees Than New Construction?

If you’re wondering why architect fees tend to be higher for remodels than for brand new builds, it comes down to surprises lurking in those existing walls and foundations. With a remodel, architects have to account for challenges that often pop up only after work begins—think hidden pipes, outdated wiring, or sneaky structural quirks from decades past.

Because of these unknowns, remodel projects usually require more flexibility, on-the-fly adjustments, and sometimes extra site visits. All that extra time spent troubleshooting and revising plans can add to your total architect costs. In contrast, new construction starts from a clean slate, allowing for a more predictable planning process and, typically, fewer revisions.

How can you keep your architectural project within budget?

Worried about your project spiraling out of control cost-wise? You're not alone! The good news is, there are some straightforward steps to help keep things on track:

• Set a clear budget from the start: Before you get too deep into planning, decide on a budget that feels comfortable and communicate it openly with your architect.
• Ask for estimates: Don’t be shy—request a detailed estimate early on so there are fewer surprises down the road.
• Stay flexible but realistic: If your wishlist doesn’t quite fit your budget, your architect can suggest adjustments or alternatives to help you prioritize what matters most.
• Review plans and changes: Any revisions to your plans can increase project costs, so check updates carefully and make decisions thoughtfully.
• Get everything in writing: Make sure all agreements about scope, fees, and deliverables are clearly documented.

These steps will help you and your architect work together to design a space you love—without blowing your budget.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Architect Fee Structures

When it comes to hiring an architect, you’ll stumble across a few common ways they might charge for their services. Each fee structure comes with its own set of pros and cons, so let’s break them down to help you figure out which option might make sense for your project and budget.

Charging as a Percentage of the Project Cost

• Pros:
  This approach ties the architect’s fee directly to the project’s overall cost, making it pretty transparent. The more you plan to invest in materials, finishes, and upgrades (think: custom cabinetry or techy electrical plans), the more comprehensive the architect’s services can get. It also motivates your architect to keep your project moving smoothly, since their payout depends on your investment.
• Cons:
  On the flip side, this model can be a wildcard—if construction costs balloon, so does the architect’s fee. Renovation projects are especially vulnerable since hidden surprises can pop up mid-construction, leading to plan tweaks and, yes, even higher fees. For folks watching their wallet, this unpredictability can be a bit nerve-racking.

Hourly Rates

• Pros:
  Great for smaller jobs, consultations, or those “I only need a little bit of help” situations. You pay for the actual time your architect spends on your project, and some firms will even set a ceiling so things don’t get out of hand. Ideal when project scope is shifting, or if you’re tackling a tricky remodel where you can’t predict every twist and turn.
• Cons:
  However, the clock’s always ticking—so costs might pile up faster than you expect, especially if your project keeps growing or new complications crop up. And with different rate tiers depending on who’s working (junior associate versus firm principal), it can be tough to estimate the final bill upfront.

Per Square Foot Pricing

• Pros:
  Simple and straightforward—just multiply the rate by your project’s square footage. This method can be particularly appealing if you’re building new or your project is pretty standard. It’s easy to compare across architects and helps you set expectations from the get-go.
• Cons:
  But, it’s less common for full-service design work. This model doesn’t usually cover the hands-on help you might want during construction or negotiations, so you could miss out on valuable expertise. And if your project becomes more complex, costs may escalate beyond the initial per-square-foot quote.

By understanding the strengths and pitfalls of each fee structure, you can choose the arrangement that aligns with your budget, comfort level, and the scale of your construction plans.

How do architectural fees vary depending on location?

Architectural fees can see quite a bit of fluctuation depending on where you’re building. For example, rates in major metropolitan areas—think New York, San Francisco, or Miami—are often higher than in smaller cities or rural regions. Local demand, cost of living, and regional building codes can all impact the final bill. If you’re in a hot market (both temperature-wise and real estate-wise, like South Florida or LA), expect prices to sit at the top end of the national average. On the other hand, planning your build in less competitive markets might help you keep your design costs in check.

When a firm provides the estimated cost for an architect to draw plans, they should factor the below elements into the quote. However, you should clarify what’s included in their basic drawing plans to ensure it covers your needs.

• Site plans, floor plans, and roof plans

• Exterior elevations from each side of the structure

• Basement or foundation plans, including footings and bearing walls

• Section drawings showing cross-section views of the structure

The cost for an architect to draw plans is often high because they’ve got the know-how in code compliance and project management. However, not all projects require that level of skill. Knowing when you truly need an architect is the key to avoiding unnecessary expenses.

What should you discuss with your architect before starting a project?

Before you get too far ahead, have a candid conversation with your architect about your overall budget and your expectations. Clarify how their fees are structured—whether it’s a flat rate, hourly, by square footage, or as a percentage of the total build cost—so there are no surprises later.

It’s also a good idea to go over your vision, priorities, and any must-have features, as well as how flexible you are on design versus costs. Talk about timelines, desired materials, and any regulations or restrictions that could impact your project. Open communication early on ensures your architect can align their plans with both your financial goals and your wishlist, helping you start off on the right foot.

Whether you need an architect depends on the project scope and local building codes and regulations. 

Work with an architect if your project involves:

• Major structural changes to the building’s foundation, rooflines, and walls.

• Legal and regulatory compliance, meaning certified construction documents (signed and sealed by an architect or an engineer) are required.

• Large-scale projects, like custom homes, multi-story buildings, and high-end structures.

You can save yourself the cost of having an architect draw up plans if your project only includes:

• Minor cosmetic updates and simple renovations, like painting, flooring, replacing fixtures, if there are no changes on the building’s foundation.

• Straightforward construction and DIY projects, such as decking and adding fences.

• Partial plans, like a simple site plan or subset of the construction drawings.

Remember to always verify with the local building department when making this decision.

If you’ve decided that the cost of having an architect draw house plans is too high, here are other ways to get construction plans:

Using AutoCAD, SketchUP, or Adobe Illustrator to draw your own site plan is another budget-friendly way to obtain plans. However, getting measurements right and ensuring everything complies with building codes can be tricky without professional experience.

Most online platforms or municipalities offer stock plans at a low price. The catch is these might not meet local codes or be the best fit for your site conditions, so consultation with a professional is still a good idea.

Online drafting companies, like MySitePlan, offer professional grade non-certified site plan drawings at more affordable rates than construction professionals. While these plans aren’t as detailed as an architect’s, they’re a solid choice for small- to medium-scale projects because they are more reliable than DIY and more customizable than stock plans.

Save time and money on your construction drawings with MySitePlan. Our team of Drafterra-certified drafters can deliver 100% compliant site plans and construction drawings in under 24 hours.

Browse our site plan packages and other services to see how we can help.

This article was originally published on December 12, 2024. It was updated on March 31, 2025.