Typical costs for trailer houses vary widely based on size, features, location, and delivery. This guide focuses on the price and cost factors that influence budgeting, including base prices, installation, and long-term ownership considerations. The figures below use U.S. dollars and reflect common market conditions for new trailer homes.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base unit (new manufactured home, 1,000–1,400 sq ft) | $60,000 | $85,000 | $150,000 | Includes factory-built shell; excludes land. |
| Delivery & site prep | $5,000 | $15,000 | $25,000 | Depends on distance, terrain, and hookups. |
| Installation & leveling | $3,000 | $7,000 | $12,000 | Foundation type affects cost. |
| Utilities hookup (water, sewer, electric) | $4,000 | $10,000 | $18,000 | Permitting may add time and fees. |
| Land clearance and permits | $2,000 | $6,000 | $14,000 | State/local variances apply. |
| Skirting, finishes, and exterior options | $2,000 | $8,000 | $20,000 | Optional features add up quickly. |
| Taxes and fees | $1,000 | $5,000 | $12,000 | Depends on jurisdiction. |
| Maintenance reserves (annual) | $500 | $1,500 | $3,000 | Typical annual upkeep. |
Overview Of Costs
Cost ranges reflect total project budgets and per-square-foot estimates. For a typical 1,100–1,400 sq ft trailer home, buyers commonly budget from $60,000 to $150,000 for the base unit, excluding land and financing. A mid-range project often lands between $85,000 and $120,000, including site prep and basic hookups. Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
Cost Breakdown
The following table breaks down major cost categories and shows how totals accumulate. The figures assume a single-family site with standard utilities and moderate customization.
| Category | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $60,000 | $85,000 | $120,000 | Base unit plus basic finishes. |
| Labor | $3,000 | $7,000 | $12,000 | Includes crew for delivery, setting, and hookups. |
| Equipment | $1,000 | $4,000 | $8,000 | Lifts, cranes, and moving gear. |
| Permits | $500 | $3,000 | $6,000 | Varies by jurisdiction and scope. |
| Delivery/Disposal | $2,000 | $6,000 | $12,000 | Distance and site access factor in. |
| Warranty | $500 | $2,000 | $5,000 | Structural and setup coverage. |
| Overhead/Contingency | $3,000 | $6,000 | $12,000 | Buffer for delays or changes. |
| Taxes | $1,000 | $5,000 | $10,000 | Depends on sale and location. |
What Drives Price
Key cost factors include floor plan, insulation, and finish quality. Primary drivers are the size of the home, number of bedrooms, energy features (R-values, windows), and fixture upgrades. A higher ceiling height, upgraded cabinets, and premium siding can push the price toward the high end. When calculating a budget, consider the impact of make-ready work, such as groundwork and driveways, which often adds tens of thousands in suburban or rural settings.
Cost Drivers
Regional differences matter for trailer home pricing. In the Northeast, delivery and site prep can be higher due to terrain and permitting complexity. The South often shows lower site prep costs but may have variable financing terms. The Midwest can balance lower land costs with shipping and crew rates that vary by city. Expect roughly ±15% to ±25% variation across regions for total project costs.
Ways To Save
Budget-conscious buyers can reduce costs with strategic choices. Consider choosing a standard floor plan, limit luxury finishes, and bundle permits with a single contractor. Financing through manufacturer programs or local lenders sometimes offers lower rates if you select a standard option. For land ownership scenarios, evaluate the total cost of ownership over 5–10 years, including maintenance and taxes.
Price By Region
Regional differences influence total price. Urban markets typically have higher delivery, permitting, and labor costs, while rural areas may incur longer wait times for installation crews but lower site prep fees. Suburban markets often land between these two extremes. In general, expect total project costs to vary by about ±20% between Urban, Suburban, and Rural settings.
Labor, Hours & Rates
Labor costs for trailer home installation include delivery crew, site work, and utility hookups. Typical labor rates range from $40 to $95 per hour depending on region and contractor experience. A complete install often spans 1–3 days on-site, with a crew of 2–5 workers. The duration and crew size directly affect total labor spend and scheduling feasibility.
Additional & Hidden Costs
Hidden fees can surprise buyers. Items such as anchoring or hurricane straps, skirting materials, and foundation upgrades may not be included in the base price. Local impact fees, impact on property tax assessments, and insurance considerations are also relevant for long-term budgeting. Ask for a written scope of work that itemizes all anticipated extras before signing a contract.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Three scenario cards illustrate typical budgeting scenarios for common needs. All figures are totals unless noted otherwise.
Basic Scenario
Specs: 1,100 sq ft, standard finishes, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths; simple landscaping. Labor: 12–18 hours. Per-unit: $60,000 base unit + $5,000 delivery + $3,000 hookups. Total: $68,000–$75,000. Assumptions: region, basic options.
Mid-Range Scenario
Specs: 1,250 sq ft, mixed finishes, energy-efficient windows, upgraded cabinets. Labor: 20–28 hours. Per-unit: $85,000 base + $12,000 site prep + $6,000 connections. Total: $110,000–$125,000. Assumptions: region, standard upgrades.
Premium Scenario
Specs: 1,400 sq ft, premium siding, upgraded HVAC, larger footprint. Labor: 28–40 hours. Per-unit: $120,000 base + $18,000 delivery + $10,000 foundation work + $8,000 premium finishes. Total: $156,000–$166,000. Assumptions: region, custom features.