Detached Garage Cost in Seattle, WA
Detached Garage in Seattle costs $54–$128 per sq ft in 2026. A typical 576 sq ft project averages $47,923. Seattle pricing runs roughly 28% above the West regional baseline.
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How much does a detached garage cost in Seattle, WA? In Seattle, a detached garage costs $30,966–$73,728 in 2026, with most homeowners paying around $47,923 for a typical 576 sq ft project.
- Per sq ft
- $54–$128
- Typical range
- $30,966–$73,728
- Average
- $47,923
- Labor share
- 55%
Seattle, WA Average Cost (2026)
What Drives Detached Garage Costs in Seattle
Permits & zoning
Seattle detached garage permits run through SDCI on a valuation basis, typically $500–$1,500 — though full plan review (rather than the faster subject-to-field-inspection track available for garages 750 sq ft or less) can push costs and timelines higher. Standard setbacks are 20 feet from the front property line and 5 feet from the side; alley-accessed garages may sit within 35 feet of the alley centerline. Combined lot coverage (house, garage, and other structures) is capped at 35% in most single-family zones.
Climate & construction
Seattle's 38+ inches of annual rainfall makes moisture management the top construction priority — proper flashing, drainage, and rot-resistant materials at grade are essential for an unheated garage. Moss and algae growth on roofing is an ongoing maintenance issue; metal or algae-resistant shingles are worth the upgrade. No significant frost depth or snow load concern simplifies the foundation.
Local market
A 20×20 two-car garage with alley access is common on Seattle's traditional lots; hillside properties in Capitol Hill, Queen Anne, and Magnolia may need geotechnical review that adds cost. Seattle's permit fees and labor rates are among the highest in the country — costs run 25–30% above the national average.
Information reflects general guidance for Seattle, WA; permit fees, code requirements, and zoning rules change — always confirm with the local building department before starting work.
Cost Breakdown
Based on a 576 sq ft project in Seattle, WA. Actual costs vary by contractor, site conditions, and material choices.
Detached Garage Cost by Size in Seattle
Seattle pricing for common detached garage project sizes (2026).
| Project size | Low | Mid | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| 288 sq ft | $15,483 | $23,962 | $36,864 |
| 576 sq ft | $30,966 | $47,923 | $73,728 |
| 1,152 sq ft | $61,932 | $95,846 | $147,456 |
Based on $54–$128 per sq ft in Seattle, WA. A 1-car garage is ~240 sq ft. A 2-car garage is ~576 sq ft.
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Rates shown are approximate averages as of 2025 and will vary based on your credit score, lender, and loan-to-value ratio. Consult a lender for an accurate quote.
Return on Investment
How much value does a detached garage add to your home at resale?
How Detached Garage compares to other projects
ROI figures based on Remodeling Magazine Cost vs. Value Report 2024, national averages. Actual resale value depends on your market, home price tier, and project quality.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a detached garage cost in Seattle, WA?
In Seattle, WA, a typical 576 sq ft detached garage project costs between $30,966 and $73,728, averaging $47,923. Seattle pricing runs roughly 28% above the West regional baseline.
How much does a 2-car garage cost in Seattle?
BuildCost's 576 sq ft default size is a 2-car garage — it typically costs $30,966–$73,728 in Seattle, WA, averaging $47,923.
Do I need a permit for a detached garage in Seattle?
Seattle detached garage permits run through SDCI on a valuation basis, typically $500–$1,500 — though full plan review (rather than the faster subject-to-field-inspection track available for garages 750 sq ft or less) can push costs and timelines higher. Standard setbacks are 20 feet from the front property line and 5 feet from the side; alley-accessed garages may sit within 35 feet of the alley centerline. Combined lot coverage (house, garage, and other structures) is capped at 35% in most single-family zones.
What detached garage size is typical in Seattle?
A 20×20 two-car garage with alley access is common on Seattle's traditional lots; hillside properties in Capitol Hill, Queen Anne, and Magnolia may need geotechnical review that adds cost. Seattle's permit fees and labor rates are among the highest in the country — costs run 25–30% above the national average.
Does a detached garage add value to homes in Seattle?
Nationally, a detached garage recoups about 65% of its cost at resale. For a $47,923 project in Seattle, WA, that's approximately $31,150 in added home value. Resale recovery varies by neighborhood and current market conditions.
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Other Project Costs in Seattle
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How big is your Detached Garage?
A 1-car garage is ~240 sq ft. A 2-car garage is ~576 sq ft.
Pro Tips
- Get at least 3 local contractor quotes
- Confirm permit requirements with the city
- Budget 10–20% contingency
- Check contractor license and insurance