RSMeans Data can be accessed at the per square foot level to aid in generating conceptual estimates, also known as preliminary or range of magnitude, in the early planning phase of a project to ensure alignment with budget expectations. With minimal factors such as size of project, location and building type, RSMeans Data square foot costs can be leveraged to prepare a conceptual estimate. With the ability to localize costs for more than 100 different building types for commercial and residential new construction or commercial renovation construction, designers and stakeholders are easily able to understand the potential total cost from the onset of a project. 

Commercial New Construction Square Foot Cost Data includes over 100 building type models configured for project type and use of the structure with square foot costs for multiple combinations of exterior wall and framing systems. Models are available for a wide range of project types, from commercial to industrial and institutional buildings like:

• Multi-story apartments
• Multi-story office space
• Schools, college classrooms and gymnasiums  
• Hotels and motels
• Factories and warehouses  
• Fire stations and police stations
• Retail stores and supermarkets 

Each model is shown with standard components as pre-configured assemblies with costs per square foot of floor area without a basement. Basement costs and other common additives such as appliances, laundry equipment, smoke detectors and emergency lighting can be added to meet project scopes. 
 
Consistent with expanding green and sustainability trends in design and construction, 25 green building models are included in our commercial new construction square foot costs. The green models align with Energy Star requirements and include items necessary to obtain LEED certification.  
 
Commercial New Construction Square Foot Costs can be accessed within the Square Foot Estimator in RSMeans Data Online or in the Square Foot Costs book.

Commercial Renovation Square Foot Cost Data includes four building types for a variety of renovation projects ranging from small interior and exterior repairs and renovations to large refurbish and renovation projects. Commercial renovation costs are available in an extensive library of pre-built models including offices, manufacturing facilities, retail stores, schools, hospitals, fire stations and multi-family homes (apartments). 
 
Commercial Renovation Square Foot Costs can be accessed within the Square Foot Estimator in RSMeans Data Online or in the Square Foot Costs book.

The Residential Square Foot Cost models contain costs per square foot for four classes of construction — economy, average, custom and luxury — across eight residential building types defined by stories or levels. Base model costs include cost per square foot of living area with one full bath for economy and average homes, an additional half bath for custom and luxury models and all without a basement.    
 
Modifications and adjustments can be made with associated costs such as: 

• Basement costs  
• Multi-family residences and townhouses  
• Additional bathrooms  
• Alternative roofing  
• Air conditioning and heating systems
• Garages
• Breezeways
• Site improvements

Residential New Construction Square Foot Costs can be accessed within the Square Foot Estimator in RSMeans Data Online or in the Square Foot Costs book.