Lumber Cost Estimation
Board Feet × Price = Budget
Total lumber quantity in board feet.
Optional. Enter 0–30.
Optional. Enter 0–10,000.
Optional. Add extra for offcuts and mistakes.
Enter your supplier price, or pick a preset below.
*Estimated cost only. Contact suppliers for actual quotes.*
Turn your board feet into a simple project budget estimate.
Price Reference Table (USD)
Typical retail ranges for 4/4 lumber. Local supply and grade can change prices.
| Species | Category | $/BF Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pine (Construction) | Softwood | $2.50–$4.00 / BF | #2 grade, common |
| Cedar (Western Red) | Softwood | $4.00–$7.00 / BF | Outdoor, decay resistant |
| Douglas Fir | Softwood | $3.50–$5.50 / BF | Structural, strong |
| Red Oak | Hardwood | $6.00–$10.00 / BF | Cabinet standard |
| White Oak | Hardwood | $8.00–$14.00 / BF | Premium, quartersawn costs more |
| Black Walnut | Hardwood | $12.00–$20.00+ / BF | Premium, figured costs more |
| Cherry | Hardwood | $8.00–$14.00 / BF | Fine furniture |
| Hard Maple | Hardwood | $7.00–$11.00 / BF | Durable, light |
| Ash | Hardwood | $5.00–$9.00 / BF | Flexible, tools |
| Poplar | Hardwood | $4.00–$6.00 / BF | Paint-grade, utility |
How to Estimate Lumber Cost
- 1
Calculate your board feet
Start with your total board feet (BF). If you need help, use our Board Foot Calculator .
- 2
Pick a price (or use the table)
Enter your supplier price per board foot. You can also use the price reference table as a starting point.
- 3
Add extras (optional)
Add tax, delivery, and a waste factor if you want a safer budget. Jump back to the calculator to tweak your numbers.
Understanding Lumber Pricing
$/BF vs $/LF
Some suppliers price by board foot (BF). Others price by linear foot (LF) for a specific board size. Use the pricing mode toggle to match your quote.
Why prices vary by region
Freight, local supply, and demand can shift prices a lot. Treat this tool as a budget estimate and confirm with a supplier.
New to lumber units? Read what is a board foot .
Board size matters
Thickness and width affect LF pricing. If you only have dimensions, convert first using the BF to LF calculator .
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A few budgeting pitfalls that can throw off your estimate.
Mixing $/BF and $/LF pricing
Hardwoods are often priced by $/BF. Some suppliers price by $/LF for a given size. Make sure the pricing mode matches how your quote is written.
Forgetting waste and project extras
Add 10–15% waste for most projects. If you have lots of cuts or defects, 15–20% is safer. Don’t forget tax and delivery if they apply.
Comparing quotes without grade and thickness
Species is only part of the price. Grade, thickness, width, kiln-dried vs green, and surfacing can change the real cost a lot.
Related Lumber Calculators
Explore more lumber calculators and tools
Board Foot Calculator
Calculate board feet for boards and estimate material cost.
Board Feet to Linear Feet
Convert board feet to linear feet based on thickness and width.
Board Feet to Square Feet
Convert board feet to square feet for flooring and decking.
Log Board Foot Calculator
Estimate board feet in logs using Doyle, Scribner, and International rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
Total cost = board feet × price per BF. Enter your board feet and price above to get a quick estimate.
Learn more:board foot formula
Disclaimer
This calculator provides rough estimates for planning. Actual lumber pricing depends on grade, moisture content, thickness, width, surfacing, and local supply. Always confirm final quantities and pricing with your supplier before ordering.
Sources
- Woodworkers Source: retail pricing examples and species info
- Bell Forest Products: hardwood pricing examples
- NHLA: board foot definition and lumber measurement basics