Stucco Cost Guide 2026
What to expect to pay, what drives costs up or down, and how to get an accurate estimate.
Typical cost
$6,000 – $20,000per project
New stucco application: $6–$9/sq ft. Stucco repair: $500–$3,000. Full remediation: $15,000–$40,000+. Prices depend heavily on scope and substrate condition.
What affects stucco cost
New stucco application: $6–$9/sq ft. Stucco repair: $500–$3,000. Full remediation: $15,000–$40,000+. Prices depend heavily on scope and substrate condition.
About stucco projects
Stucco is a durable, fire-resistant exterior finish popular in the Southwest, Southeast, and increasingly across the country. Traditional three-coat stucco over metal lath provides excellent longevity when properly installed with adequate drainage planes and flashing. Synthetic stucco (EIFS — Exterior Insulation and Finish System) offers better insulation values but requires meticulous moisture management. Stucco cracking, staining, or bulging often indicates trapped moisture that can cause serious structural damage if not remediated promptly — stucco remediation involves removing the cladding, repairing substrate damage, and reinstalling with improved drainage.
How to keep stucco costs in check
- ✓Ask whether they specialize in traditional stucco, EIFS, or both.
- ✓Confirm the bid specifies the number of coats and the drainage system behind the stucco.
- ✓Request references specifically for stucco remediation if moisture damage is suspected.
- ✓Ask about the workmanship warranty and how they handle cracking within the warranty period.
Cost FAQ
What is the average cost of stucco work?
The average cost ranges from $6,000 to $20,000 per project. New stucco application: $6–$9/sq ft. Stucco repair: $500–$3,000. Full remediation: $15,000–$40,000+. Prices depend heavily on scope and substrate condition.
Why do contractor estimates vary so much?
Material quality, project complexity, local labor rates, and contractor overhead all affect pricing. A 30–50% variance between bids on the same project usually means different scopes — get line-item estimates and compare carefully.
How can I lower the cost without sacrificing quality?
Schedule during off-peak times (spring and fall are busiest for most trades). Get 3+ competing bids. Avoid making scope changes after work starts. Supply your own materials if you can find better pricing (discuss with contractor first).
Does homeowner's insurance cover this work?
Typically only if the damage is sudden and accidental (storm, fire, burst pipe). Routine maintenance, wear and tear, and improvements are not covered. Check your policy for specifics.
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