How We Calculate Costs

CostWhale provides cost estimates for over 200 services across 220+ US cities. Here is exactly how we research, calculate, and present our data.

Data Sources

Our cost estimates are compiled from multiple authoritative sources:

Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)

Occupational wage data and Consumer Price Index (CPI) regional adjustments inform our labor cost components.

Industry Trade Associations

We reference published pricing guidelines from organizations like NAHB, PHCC, and ACCA for industry-standard rates.

Regional Cost of Living Indices

We use the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER) cost of living index to adjust national averages for each metro area.

Contractor and Provider Surveys

Aggregated pricing data from service providers across our covered markets supplements statistical sources with real-world rates.

How We Calculate Local Prices

Each service has a national average cost derived from our source data. We then apply a city-specific cost modifier based on:

Local labor rates — wages for skilled tradespeople in each metro area

Cost of living — how overall expenses in each city compare to the national baseline

Material costs — regional variations in supply chain and material availability

Regulatory environment — local permitting, licensing, and code requirements that add overhead

Market competition — the density and competitiveness of the local service provider market

Climate factors — how local weather patterns affect demand, scheduling, and material requirements

What Our Estimates Include

Our cost ranges (low to high) represent what the middle 80% of consumers pay. The low end typically reflects a straightforward job with favorable conditions. The high end reflects more complex projects, premium materials, or challenging conditions. Extreme outliers in either direction are excluded.

How Often We Update

Cost data is reviewed and updated annually, with interim adjustments when significant market changes occur (such as material price spikes or new regulatory requirements). Each cost page displays when it was last updated.

Important Disclaimers

All costs shown are estimates for informational purposes. Actual prices will vary based on the specific scope of your project, your property's conditions, the contractor you choose, and current market conditions. We always recommend getting at least three quotes from licensed, insured providers in your area before making a hiring decision.

Have questions about our data or methodology?