Finishing your basement is one of the most cost-effective ways to expand your living space without adding to your home’s footprint. Whether you’re in Lehi, South Jordan, or Spanish Fork, Utah, homeowners are increasingly turning to basement renovations for extra bedrooms, family rooms, rental units, or even complete mother-in-law suites.

But the big question remains: How much will it cost? As with most home projects, the answer depends on a few key factors. This guide breaks it down, with local insights, honest pricing, and smart tips to help you make confident decisions.

Apex Construction’s standard pricing for a fully finished basement is $28 per square foot. That includes everything from framing and drywall to electrical, trim, paint, and carpet. Common upgrades include kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms, which are considered optional upgrades—but we’re happy to build them in.

For a typical 1,000-square-foot basement, here’s what you might expect:

• Basic finish: $28,000
• With bathroom: $35,800
• With kitchen or custom upgrades: $43,800

Prices can vary by location (especially in areas like Park City or Alpine), but this gives you a solid baseline for the Utah market

1. Square Footage

It’s simple: the bigger the basement, the higher the cost. But larger basements often give you more value for the money per square foot. For example, finishing a 700 sq ft basement may cost almost the same labor as a 9,000 sq ft basement due to economies of scale.

2. Layout & Complexity

A wide-open basement with a single living room is easier (and cheaper) to finish than one with multiple bedrooms, hallways, bathrooms, and built-in nooks. Plan for added costs for a theater room, custom bar, or apartment-style layout.

We recently finished a Highland basement with multiple angled walls, three bedrooms, and a kitchenette. The layout was stunning but added about 15% to the total cost.

3. Materials & Finishes

Your finish choices matter. Carpeting and standard trim will keep costs down, while LVP, tile, or custom cabinetry will push them up. The good news? We help clients mix and match finishes to stay on budget.

Prioritize Essentials

Start with the basics: walls, lighting, floors, and trim. You can always add a wet bar or built-in shelving later. One client in Saratoga Springs added a bathroom six months after their original finish, spreading the cost out. With a little planning, there were minimal disruptions and extra costs.

Get Multiple Quotes

Even if you already have a contractor in mind, get two or three quotes. Some Utah contractors include cleanup, warranty, and project management, while others don’t. Comparing apples to apples is key.

Bundle Upgrades

If you plan a bathroom and a laundry room, doing both at once may save on plumbing labor. We’ve seen projects save $1,500+ this way.

Consider Financing

Many Utah families use home equity loans or local credit union financing to spread costs. Before signing anything, please ensure your contractor offers transparent pricing and a detailed scope of work.

DIY is tempting, but basement finishing involves more than drywall and paint. You must deal with specific code requirements in Utah, insulation standards (R-13 minimum in walls), and radon mitigation in many areas.

Perks of Hiring a Local Contractor:

• Faster timelines: Most pros can finish in 10–14 weeks.
• Code compliance: We know what inspectors in your city are looking for.
• Quality guarantee: A professional finish adds real value to your home.
• Warranty coverage: Apex offers a 2-year artistry warranty on every project.

If you’re interviewing potential contractors, ask:

• Are you licensed in the state of Utah?
• How many basement projects have you completed locally?
• Do you include design, permits, and cleanup in your quote?
• Can I see examples of your recent work?
• What kind of warranty do you offer?

You want someone who builds basements every day, not just someone adding it to their list of services.

Finishing your basement is one of the most rewarding home upgrades you can make—and in Utah, it’s often a better return on investment than a complete addition. Understanding the cost factors, getting detailed bids, and working with a reputable contractor can turn that cold storage space into a warm and welcoming part of your home.

Whether you dream of a home theater in Spanish Fork or a guest suite in South Jordan, the first step is knowing what to expect, then building from there.