Cost per Square Foot to Build in Bend, Oregon (2025)

If you're thinking about building a home in Bend, Oregon, you're not alone. With limited inventory, rising home prices, and a population that continues to grow, many are exploring the option of building their dream home. But how much does it really cost to build a house in Bend in 2025?

Let’s break it down.

💰 Average Cost per Square Foot in Bend

As of mid-2025, the cost to build a home in Bend typically ranges from $250 to $450 per square foot, depending on location, design, and materials used. Here's how it usually breaks down:

Build Type	Estimated Cost/Sq Ft	Description
Entry-Level Custom	$250 – $300	Basic finishes, modest design, no major sitework
Mid-Range Custom	$300 – $375	Upgraded materials, moderate architectural details
High-End / Luxury	$375 – $450+	Custom features, high-end appliances, premium lots

📍 Factors That Affect Cost

1. Lot and Site Conditions

• Flat, build-ready lots are cheaper.

• Hillside lots, tree removal, or remote land add excavation and utility extension costs.

2. Permitting and Fees

Bend has significant system development charges (SDCs) and permit fees that vary by square footage and location. Expect $20K–$50K in fees before breaking ground.

3. Design Complexity

Modern designs with large windows, vaulted ceilings, and custom materials add cost. Mountain modern and NW contemporary styles are especially popular in Bend, but they often fall on the higher end of the cost scale.

4. Labor & Material Costs

• Labor shortages and high demand in Central Oregon can drive up prices.

• Material costs fluctuate—lumber, concrete, and HVAC components remain higher than pre-pandemic levels.

🏗️ Hidden Costs You Should Know

• Utilities: If building on raw land, expect to pay to bring in water, sewer/septic, electricity, and internet.

• Landscaping: Xeriscaping or native plant landscaping is recommended (and popular), but still adds to your budget.

• Time Delays: Permitting and labor shortages may delay your build timeline, increasing holding costs.

📊 Is Building Still Worth It?

Despite higher upfront costs, building allows you to:

• Customize your layout and finishes

• Choose an energy-efficient or net-zero design

• Potentially build equity faster in a high-demand market like Bend

It’s especially appealing to those who can’t find what they want in existing inventory or who already own land.

Building in Bend isn’t cheap—but for many, the opportunity to live in a custom home in one of Oregon’s most desirable regions is worth it. If you're considering this route, connect with a local builder or real estate expert who understands land, zoning, and cost trends in Central Oregon.

FAQs

Q: Is it cheaper to build or buy in Bend?

Right now, building a new home often costs more per square foot than buying an existing one. However, with low inventory, many buyers are opting to build to get what they want.

Q: How long does it take to build a home in Bend?

Expect 9–18 months from permit approval to completion, depending on contractor availability, design complexity, and weather.

Q: What’s the most cost-effective home style to build in Bend?

Single-story ranch-style or modest craftsman designs with simpler rooflines and open floor plans tend to be the most affordable.

Q: Can I build a home on a rural lot outside of Bend?

Yes, but be aware of potential zoning restrictions, septic system requirements, and utility extensions that add to cost.