The cost of a steel structure typically ranges from USD 30 to USD 120 per square meter, depending on design, materials, location, and project requirements. For complex or multi-story buildings, costs can be higher.
Average reference price (structure only):
USD 30–70/m² for simple steel structures
USD 70–120/m² for industrial or customized steel buildings
(Prices are indicative and may vary by country and market.)
Main Factors That Affect Steel Structure Cost
1. Building Type
Steel warehouse: lower cost
Industrial workshop or factory: medium cost
Commercial or multi-story building: higher cost
2. Steel Material Specification
Steel grade (Q235, Q355, ASTM A36, etc.)
Section size and thickness
Amount of steel used per square meter
3. Design & Load Requirements
Span length and building height
Wind load, snow load, and seismic standards
Crane systems or heavy equipment loads
4. Fabrication & Surface Treatment
CNC cutting and robotic welding
Painting or hot-dip galvanizing
Quality standards and certifications
5. Location & Logistics
Local labor cost
Transportation and shipping
Import duties and taxes
6. Installation Cost (Optional)
Installation usually adds USD 10–30/m², depending on site conditions and labor rates.
Steel Structure Cost Breakdown (Typical)
| Item | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Steel materials | 50–60% |
| Fabrication & processing | 20–30% |
| Surface treatment | 5–10% |
| Transport & logistics | 5–10% |
| Installation | optional |
Is a Steel Structure Cost-Effective?
Yes. Compared with concrete buildings, steel structures offer:
Faster construction time
Lower foundation cost
Long service life
Easy expansion and modification
High material recyclability
This often results in lower total project cost over the building’s lifecycle.
