How Much Does It Cost to Build a Custom Home in Victoria, BC - 2025

Written By Brad Perron

Building a home in Victoria, BC, is a dream for many. Between the ocean, forests, and mild climate, it’s one of the most desirable places to live in Canada. But before breaking ground, most people have the same question:

What does it actually cost to build a home in Victoria right now?

In this article, we’ll break down the main costs, local factors, and what you can expect in 2025.

Average Cost Per Square Foot in Victoria BC

As of 2025, the average cost to build a custom home in Victoria ranges from $325 – $500 per square foot.

  • Basic finish/starter custom home → $325 – $375/sq. ft.

  • Mid-range custom home → $375 – $450/sq. ft.

  • High-end custom or luxury → $450 – $600+/sq. ft.

For example:

  • A 2,500 sq. ft. mid-range home → about $950,000 – $1.1M (not including land).

Local Factors That Affect Costs in Victoria

  1. Land & Site Prep

    • Lots in Greater Victoria vary widely — from flat serviced land in Saanich to rocky Langford, and forested acreage in Highlands.

    • Site prep (blasting rock, septic, wells, driveways) can add $30,000 – $150,000+.

  2. Design Complexity

    • Simple shapes = lower cost.

    • Complex rooflines, custom millwork, or high-end materials = more.

  3. Permits & Fees

    • Development permits, building permits, utility hookups, and municipal fees often add $25,000 – $60,000+.

  4. Labour & Material Prices

    • BC construction is still facing labour shortages and high demand.

    • Lumber and concrete costs have stabilized compared to pandemic highs, but still trend above pre-2020 pricing.

  5. Energy Efficiency & Code Requirements

    • BC Energy Step Code requires new builds to meet higher efficiency standards.

    • High-performance insulation, windows, and HVAC add upfront cost but reduce long-term bills.

What’s Not Included in Square-Foot Estimates

When people hear $325–$500/sq. ft., they often forget that land and extras aren’t included. Be sure to budget for:

  • Land purchase (average residential lot in Greater Victoria ranges from $400k – $800k+, depending on location).

  • Utilities (well, septic, or municipal connections).

  • Landscaping & driveways (anywhere from $20k – $150k+, depending on property).

  • Soft costs (architectural design, engineers, surveys, and interior design).

How to Plan Your Budget the Right Way

  1. Start with the end in mind – decide on size, style, and must-have features.

  2. Get a site-specific estimate – costs vary dramatically based on land conditions.

  3. Leave a contingency fund – add 10–15% for unexpected costs.

  4. Work with a builder early – having a builder involved from the design stage prevents costly redesigns.

Value-driven Design

When we talk about design affecting cost, it’s not just about high-end finishes or fancy interiors — it’s about the engineering and structure of the home itself. For example, minimizing exterior corners, simplifying rooflines, and keeping the overall footprint efficient can make a significant difference in construction costs without changing the look and feel you want as a homeowner. These are details most clients don’t notice in day-to-day living, but they greatly influence labour, materials, and long-term performance. With good planning and the right expertise, you can strike the perfect balance between aesthetics and smart building practices.

Final Thoughts

Building a home in Victoria BC in 2025 is a major investment, but also an incredible opportunity to create a space that’s truly yours. On average, expect $325 – $500 per sq. ft., plus land and site costs.

Every project is unique — the best way to know your numbers is to talk to a local builder who can give you a tailored estimate for your land, design, and goals.

Ready to explore building your custom home in Victoria?
Contact BOA Homes today to start a conversation — we’ll help you plan, budget, and bring your vision to life.

Brad Perron