Updated May 2026

How Much Does Hardwood Refinishing Cost in 2026?

National average: $4,112 – $6,682. See detailed cost breakdown, regional pricing for 100+ cities, and get a free instant estimate.

Quick Cost Summary

Low End

$4,112

National Average

$5,140

High End

$6,682

Hardwood Refinishing Cost Breakdown

ItemUnitQtyPriceTotal
Sanding & Stainingsq ft600$4.50$2700.00
Polyurethane Finish (3 coats)sq ft600$2.20$1320.00
Labor & Dust Controlhr16$70.00$1120.00

What Affects Hardwood Refinishing Cost?

  • Project scope & size: Larger projects cost more, but per-unit pricing often drops for bigger jobs.
  • Material quality: Premium materials (e.g., hardwood vs. laminate, copper vs. PEX) significantly impact total cost.
  • Labor rates: Vary dramatically by region — from $45/hr in rural areas to $120+/hr in major metros.
  • Permits & inspections: Many trades require building permits ($100–$500+) and inspections that add to total cost.
  • Accessibility: Hard-to-reach areas, multi-story buildings, or old construction can add 15-30% to labor costs.
  • Seasonal demand: Prices often peak in spring/summer when demand is highest. Scheduling in off-peak months can save 10-20%.

Hardwood Refinishing Cost by City

Costs vary by location. Here are estimated prices for hardwood refinishing in major US cities:

CityAvg. Costvs. NationalFree Estimate
New York, NY$7,453+45%Get Estimate →
Los Angeles, CA$6,939+35%Get Estimate →
Chicago, IL$6,168+20%Get Estimate →
Houston, TX$4,883-5%Get Estimate →
Phoenix, AZ$5,037-2%Get Estimate →
Philadelphia, PA$5,911+15%Get Estimate →
San Antonio, TX$4,626-10%Get Estimate →
San Diego, CA$6,682+30%Get Estimate →
Dallas, TX$5,140AvgGet Estimate →
San Jose, CA$7,710+50%Get Estimate →
Austin, TX$5,397+5%Get Estimate →
Jacksonville, FL$4,729-8%Get Estimate →
Fort Worth, TX$4,883-5%Get Estimate →
Columbus, OH$4,729-8%Get Estimate →
Indianapolis, IN$4,626-10%Get Estimate →
Charlotte, NC$4,883-5%Get Estimate →
San Francisco, CA$7,967+55%Get Estimate →
Seattle, WA$6,682+30%Get Estimate →
Denver, CO$5,654+10%Get Estimate →
Nashville, TN$5,140AvgGet Estimate →

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much does hardwood refinishing cost?

The national average cost for hardwood refinishing ranges from $4,112 to $6,682. Costs vary significantly by region — for example, costs in San Francisco are typically 55% higher than the national average, while cities like Oklahoma City are 15% below average.

What affects hardwood refinishing cost?

Key factors include: project scope and size, material quality and type, local labor rates, permit requirements, accessibility, seasonal demand, and complexity of the work. Getting multiple quotes and using a detailed estimate generator can help you budget accurately.

How can I get a free hardwood refinishing estimate?

Brixor offers a free online estimate generator for hardwood refinishing. Enter your project details, customize line items, and download a professional PDF estimate instantly. No signup or credit card required.