When buyers look up the cost of modular home installation, they often see attractive base prices for prefab houses, but forget that installation adds another 15–25% to the total budget. From foundations to utility hookups, installation stages make a huge difference.
In this 2025 guide, we break down the average cost of modular home installation, typical prices across U.S. regions, the difference between modular mobile home prices and installation costs, and practical ways to save money without cutting quality.
Key Stages of Modular Home Installation
Every modular home requires several critical steps. Each one contributes to the final modular home installation cost.
1. Foundation
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Options: slab, crawl space, or full basement.
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Typical cost: $20,000–$50,000, depending on soil and region.
2. Delivery
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Transporting modules from factory to site.
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May require escort vehicles and permits.
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Cost: $5,000–$15,000, depending on distance.
3. Setting the Modules
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Crane rental and skilled crew for placement.
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Ensures modules are aligned and secured.
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Cost: $10,000–$20,000.
4. Button-Up Work
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Sealing seams, connecting modules, finishing interiors/exteriors.
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Cost: $15,000–$25,000.
5. Utility Hookups
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Water, sewer/septic, electrical systems, and HVAC.
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Cost: $5,000–$25,000.
👉 These stages combined explain why the average cost of modular home installation often surprises first-time buyers.
Typical Installation Costs by Region
Installation costs for modular homes vary greatly across the U.S.:
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Texas – $35,000–$55,000 (lower labor and permit fees).
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Florida – $45,000–$65,000 (hurricane codes increase costs).
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California – $60,000–$90,000 (strict seismic rules + high labor).
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Northeast – $50,000–$75,000 (higher material and permit expenses).
How Much of the Total Budget Is Installation?
On average, modular home installation accounts for:
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15–20% of budget for simple slab foundations.
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20–25% for full basements or custom upgrades.
➡ Examples:
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$200,000 modular home → $40,000–$50,000 installation.
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$300,000 modular home → $60,000–$75,000 installation.
Ways to Save on Modular Home Installation Costs
Smart planning can reduce your modular home installation cost:
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Choose a slab foundation instead of a basement (saves $15,000–$20,000).
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Select land with minimal grading needs.
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Build closer to the manufacturer to cut transport fees.
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Bundle services with one contractor instead of hiring separately.
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Limit major customizations such as porches or garages.
Modular Mobile Home Prices vs. Modular Installation
Many people confuse modular mobile home prices with installation costs.
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Mobile homes: cheaper to install ($5,000–$15,000), but often classified as personal property.
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Modular homes: installation costs are higher, but they are considered real property with stronger resale value and better mortgage options.
This difference explains why installation costs for modular homes are a key factor in long-term financial planning.
FAQ: Modular Home Installation Costs
What is the average cost of modular home installation?
Between $35,000 and $75,000, depending on foundation and state regulations.
How much of the total home budget goes to installation?
Typically 15–25% of the full project cost.
Can I save money on installation?
Yes. Choose slab foundations, minimize site prep, and reduce transportation distance.
Conclusion
The cost of modular home installation is a major part of any prefab housing budget. Expect installation to take up to 20–25% of your total costs. While modular mobile home prices may look cheaper, full modular home installation ensures long-term stability, real estate classification, financing benefits, and higher resale value.
👉 Smart planning today can save you tens of thousands tomorrow—without sacrificing quality.
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