INTERIOR FINISHES
How Much Does Baseboard Installation Cost?
Estimate baseboard and trim installation cost per linear foot — with the free calculator.
Baseboards finish the look of any room and protect walls from scuffs. The price depends on material, profile height and labor. This guide covers the cost per linear foot and a calculator.
THE SHORT ANSWER
The short answer
Baseboard installation runs $6–$9 per linear ft installed, or $1.54–$22.41 depending on material and profile. A typical 2,000 sq ft home needs 500–800 linear ft — budget $3,500–$6,500 for the whole house.
Materials and profiles
MDF is the budget standard at $1.50-$3 per linear ft and paints well. Pine runs $1.50-$5.60 and stains nicely. PVC resists moisture for baths and basements. Tall profiles (5-7 in) cost more than standard 3-4 in.
- MDF: $1.50–$3 per linear ft
- Pine: $1.50–$5.60 per linear ft
- PVC: $3–$8 per linear ft
- Installation: $4–$8 per linear ft
Why labor is the big line item
Cutting miters, fitting corners, nailing and caulking take skill and time. A pro installs 100-150 linear ft per day. Crown molding and ornate profiles add significant labor over simple baseboard.
Prep and finishing
Paint-grade trim needs priming and caulking before painting; stain-grade needs sanding and stain. Ask what the quote includes — some pros include caulk and touch-up, others charge extra.
Try the calculator with your rooms
Enter the baseboard run, baseboard price per linear ft and installation per linear ft to see the total.