Drywall pricing in 2026 runs $13-$18 per 4x8 sheet of ½-inch standard board, $18-$25 per sheet for moisture-resistant (green board) or Type X (fire-rated). Hang-and-finish labor averages $1.80-$2.80 per sq ft of board for level 4 finish (standard); level 5 (smooth, for flat paint or dramatic lighting) runs $3.50-$5 per sq ft. A typical 500 sq ft room with 8-ft ceilings uses 20-22 sheets.
Level 4 vs Level 5 finish — what you're actually paying for
Level 4 is standard residential — seams taped and mudded, screws filled, corner bead installed, sanded smooth enough for eggshell or satin paint and orange-peel texture. Level 5 adds a full skim coat across the entire wall surface, producing a glass-smooth finish that holds up under flat paint and raking light. Level 5 runs $1.50-$2.50 per sq ft more than Level 4 — worth it in living rooms with large windows and hallways with floor lamps where Level 4 flaws become visible.
Sheet types and when each applies
Standard ½-inch for walls and ceilings in dry areas. 5/8-inch Type X (fire-rated) required on garage walls and ceilings that share with living space, around furnaces, and on multi-family party walls. Moisture-resistant green board or cement board for bathroom and shower surrounds. Mold-resistant paper-faced board for basements and damp spaces. High-impact board for rental properties and high-traffic commercial.
DIY vs hiring a drywall crew
Hanging is DIY-friendly with a helper and a T-brace for ceilings. Finishing is where DIY goes wrong — proper 3-coat mudding with correct feathering takes practice, and poor finishing shows up permanently once paint goes on. Hybrid approach: DIY the hang (save $0.80-$1.20 per sq ft), hire a pro taper/finisher ($1.20-$2.00 per sq ft). Most homeowners save 30-40% versus full hire while avoiding the steepest skill curve.