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Home Insulation Cost Guide
Updated 2026 · National averages
National Average
$1,500 – $6,000
per project
Home insulation costs $1,500–$6,000 for attic and crawl space work — one of the highest-ROI home improvements available.
Overview
Adding or upgrading insulation is one of the highest-ROI home improvements available, with payback periods of 2–5 years. Attic insulation is the most common project ($1,500–$3,500), while whole-home air sealing and insulation packages run $3,000–$8,000. Proper insulation reduces heating and cooling costs 15–30% and qualifies for the 30% federal tax credit up to $1,200/year.
Cost by Scope
Attic insulation (blown-in)
Blown-in fiberglass or cellulose to R-38 to R-60. Best single-improvement ROI.
$1,500–$3,500
Crawl space + rim joists
Spray foam or batt insulation in crawl space. Reduces moisture and heat loss.
$1,500–$4,000
Whole-home air sealing + insulation
Comprehensive package including blower door test. Qualifies for maximum IRA credits.
$4,000–$8,000
What Affects the Cost
High
Area to insulate
Attic, walls, crawl space, basement, and rim joists each have different labor and material costs.
High
Insulation type
Blown-in fiberglass ($1–$2/sq ft), blown-in cellulose ($1–$1.50/sq ft), spray foam ($2–$6/sq ft), batt ($1–$1.50/sq ft).
Medium
Current R-value
Homes with partial insulation need less material than uninsulated homes. An energy audit helps determine what's needed.
Medium
Existing insulation removal
Old, damaged, or rodent-infested insulation adds $1,000–$3,000 for removal before new install.
Medium
Access difficulty
Tight crawl spaces or closed-cavity walls require more labor. Attics with obstructions cost more.
Low
Air sealing combined
Combining air sealing with insulation is best practice and often required for tax credit eligibility.
What's Typically Included
- Material
- Labor
- Vapor barrier (crawl space)
- Basic air sealing
- Post-install R-value confirmation
Common Add-Ons (Not Included)
- Energy audit (recommended, $150–$400)
- HVAC rebalancing
- Mold remediation if present
- Structural repairs
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Frequently Asked Questions
What R-value do I need?
DOE recommends R-38 to R-60 in attics for most US climates. Your climate zone determines exact targets. An energy auditor can assess your current R-value for free or low cost.
Does insulation qualify for the federal tax credit?
Yes. Insulation and air sealing materials meeting IECC standards qualify for the 30% credit up to $1,200/year through 2032.
How much can insulation save on energy bills?
Properly insulating an under-insulated home typically reduces heating and cooling costs 15–30%. In older homes, savings can exceed 40%.
What's the difference between spray foam and blown-in insulation?
Spray foam seals air gaps AND insulates (higher R-value per inch), but costs 3–5× more. Blown-in cellulose or fiberglass is more economical and better for existing attics.
Do I need an energy audit before insulating?
An energy audit ($150–$400) is highly recommended — it identifies exactly where heat is escaping and helps prioritize spending. Many utilities offer subsidized or free audits.