Free Tool

Contractor markup calculator

Enter your job cost and desired markup or margin. The calculator shows your selling price, profit, and the difference between markup and margin so you stop confusing the two.

Enter your numbers

Choose whether you want to calculate from a markup percentage or a target selling price.

Labor + materials + overhead

Percentage added on top of cost

Typical contractor markups by trade

These ranges come from industry surveys and contractor benchmarking data. Your actual markup depends on your overhead, local market, and whether the job is residential or commercial.

Trade Typical markup Effective margin Notes
HVAC 40% to 60% 29% to 38% Higher on service calls and repairs. Equipment installs sit at the lower end due to material cost.
Electrical 30% to 50% 23% to 33% Panel upgrades and rewires command higher markups. New construction bids run thinner.
Plumbing 35% to 55% 26% to 35% Service and repair work sits at the higher end. Water heater and fixture installs run middle of the range.
General contracting 15% to 30% 13% to 23% Lower percentage but higher total dollar amounts. Subcontractor costs make up a large portion of the budget.
Landscaping 40% to 65% 29% to 39% Recurring maintenance contracts can run higher markup. Hardscaping and installs are lower.
Painting 35% to 50% 26% to 33% Labor-heavy jobs support higher markup. Material costs are a smaller share than other trades.

Want to understand how markup connects to your pricing formula? Read the full guide on contractor job pricing.

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