Costs of Stairs by Shape — Curved to Straight and Every Shape In Between

A common question I hear is, "How much does a stair cost?" Both the shape of the stair and the footage of the balustrade will set the price of your stair long before you start making selections for style.

Consider selecting the stair shape when you are working with your Architect on your plans.

• Straight

  The most cost effective stair shape is the simplest stair to build. Consider saving money on this simple stair shape, then you may have more money in your budget for upgrades on balustrade style and materials. Straight stairs start around $3,000*.

  Landings: L-Shape and U-Shape

  These are more expensive than straight stairs, as both the stair and rail take more labor at each turn/intersection then a simple straight stair takes. Landing stairs start at around 4,000*.

• Winder Treads in Lieu of Landings

  Landings are framed and covered with flooring, while winders are custom made stair treads, winders will cost more than landings.

• Trapezoid Angled

  This is also called "the poor mans curved". There are a lot of intersections and fitting (labor) on this shape stair. Their price is generally between the Landing stair and a curved stair, starting around $5,500*.

• Curved

  Curved stairs are the most desirable stair, due to the beauty and prestige they bring to a home. These stairs take skill in many areas, including engineering and advanced woodworking skills, along with specialized curved stair skills. A curved stair is the most expensive stair shape. Typically curved staircases start at about $9,000* and go well over $100,000 due to custom materials, styles and more complex engineering.

View the Designed Stairs Inspiration Galleries to get more information on specific shapes and why you may want to choose one over another (beyond price).