Who to hire to finish a garage? Learn when to call a garage remodeler or handyperson, and see key steps and cost considerations.
How Much Does It Cost to Drywall a Garage in 2025?
Normal Range: $360 - $1,700
Drywalling a garage costs an average of $1,100
How we get this data
Highlights
The average cost to drywall a garage ranges from $360 to $1,700.
A two-car garage drywall project averages $1,100 nationwide.
Cost factors include garage size, drywall type, labor, and add-on projects.
Various drywall types offer different benefits, from basic coverage to moisture and fire protection.
Properly installed drywall can enhance your garage's appearance and functionality.
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This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
Converting your unfinished garage into a more polished space begins with drywall installation. The average cost to drywall a garage ranges from $360 to $1,700, with the average cost landing at $1,100. Your final price will depend on several key variables, including your garage dimensions, material selections, desired finish quality, and local contractor rates.
Cost Factors for Drywalling a Garage
The cost to drywall a garage is based on a variety of factors. Here’s a closer look at how your costs break down.
Type of Drywall
The drywall variety you select significantly impacts your budget. Entry-level standard panels cost less than specialized options like fire-resistant boards, which are often required in garages connected to living spaces. Your climate and intended garage use may necessitate moisture-resistant panels for durability in humid environments.
| Drywall Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Standard | Basic coverage for general applications |
| Moisture-resistant | Protection against humidity and dampness |
| Fire-resistant | Required by many codes for attached garages |
| Specialized/premium | Enhanced durability or specialized features |
Garage Size
Your garage's dimensions represent one of the most significant cost determinants. Larger spaces naturally require more materials and labor time, affecting your total investment.
| Garage Size | Square Footage | Cost Range (All-In) |
|---|---|---|
| One-car | 240–380 | $360–$1,350 |
| Two-car | 360–480 | $540–$1,700 |
| Three-car | 700–860 | $1,050–$3,000 |
Materials
Beyond the panels themselves, you'll need several supporting materials to complete your drywall project. The quality of these items affects both your budget and the finished appearance.
| Material | Purpose | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Drywall panels | Primary wall covering | $10–$65 per panel |
| Joint compound | Seam and fastener coverage | $10–$25 per bucket |
| Drywall tape | Seam reinforcement | $5 per roll |
Labor
Professional installation accounts for a substantial portion of your project budget, with total costs depending on the complexity and finish level desired.
| Labor Component | Description | Cost per Sq. Ft. |
|---|---|---|
| Professional installation | Complete drywall service | $1.20–$3 |
| Finishing | Seam treatment and surface preparation | $0.50–$1.50 |
| Texturing | Optional decorative surface treatment | $0.50–$2.00 |
Location
Your geographic location influences pricing considerably. Major metropolitan areas command higher rates than rural regions due to cost-of-living differences and contractor availability.
| Location | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Los Angeles, CA | $2,200 |
| Austin, TX | $1,600 |
| National average | $1,100 |
Drywall Project Add-Ons
Several optional enhancements can increase your project's scope and price while potentially adding value or functionality.
| Project | Description | Cost per Sq. Ft. |
|---|---|---|
| Texture application | Surface treatments for visual interest | $0.50–$2.00 |
| Drywall removal | Removal of existing damaged materials | $0.30–$0.45 |
Ongoing Project Costs
After your garage drywall is installed, consider these upkeep costs and best practices.
Maintenance
Regular inspection of your garage drywall helps identify small issues before they become major problems. Watch for hairline cracks or minor dents that might develop over time. Occasional cleaning with a dry cloth removes dust accumulation, while periodic touch-ups maintain appearance and structural integrity.
Operating Costs
Finished drywall may affect your garage's thermal properties depending on whether insulation was installed simultaneously. While drywall itself doesn't generate ongoing expenses, temperature fluctuations in an uninsulated garage might impact adjacent living spaces or items stored within the garage.
Repairs
Garage walls frequently sustain damage from vehicle doors, tools, or equipment. Drywall repair costs depend on the severity of the damage and the repair method.
| Repair Type | Description | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| DIY minor repairs | Small hole patching with retail kits | $10–$30 |
| Professional repairs | Contractor-performed restoration | $300–$900 |
| Hourly service | Time-based professional repair work | $60–$90 per hour |
Insurance
Installing drywall to code specifications may affect your home insurance considerations, particularly when fire-rated materials are used in attached garages. While specific premium impacts vary by provider, meeting local building requirements helps ensure compliance during inspections or claims processes.
Budgeting for Drywalling a Garage
Consider these cost-saving tips to help make your garage drywalling project more budget-friendly:
Consider partial DIY work to potentially reduce expenses by 15 to 25%, perhaps handling simpler aspects while professionals manage technical installation.
Select the appropriate panel thickness based on requirements. Thinner 1/2-inch panels may save $5 to $10 per sheet compared to 5/8-inch options, where codes permit.
Evaluate texture necessity. Simpler finishes require less material and labor, potentially reducing costs by $0.50 to $2.00 per square foot.
Request multiple estimates from local drywall installation contractors to ensure competitive pricing for your specific project needs.
Prioritize fire safety requirements over cosmetic upgrades when working with limited funds, especially for attached garages.
How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data
No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
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