Home Theater Room Cost

Considering a movie theater room in your house? Before anything, ensure you understand the overall cost of building an at-home movie theater.

Whether you are an avid movie watcher or simply looking for something to do with an empty space in your home, a home theater is one of the best renovations a homeowner could make. Similar to any home renovation project, the cost will vary greatly depending on many factors. Luckily, we have you covered to ensure you know the real cost to build your dream home theater. 

One of the most important factors to consider when renovating is finding the best builder to work with. Depending on your skillsset, you can get the job down on your own. However, hiring a professional will eliviate a great deal of stress so you can focus on what is important. 

The most effective way to cut down on costs is to build the theater on your own. Keep in mind that a theater can be complex to install, as a result of the electrical work. 

While building a home theater may be costly, the increased home value and quality of life will make up for it. In order to decipher if you can affordt this project, here are the average costs to build a home theater. We encourage you to talk with a trusted real estate agent to see who much value this could add to your home for resale. 

Here is everything you need to know about the costs associated with building a home movie theater. 

1. Average Home Theater Price

On average, the cost to install a home theater is $20,000, according to Angi's List. However, the overall cost will range between $10,000 and $60,000 depending on the size, location, and extent of the remodel. 

You'll most likely need a local home theater installation service. A designer may cost betweeen $500 and $3,000, you can always design the space on your own. But if you don't have an eye for design, a professional will be essential. 

One of the key factors for a home theater is electrical work, which can vary from $50 to $100 per hour for a professional. Similar to other home renovation projects, get quotes from multiple professionals to ensure you're getting the best bang for your buck. 

2. Home Theater Cost Factors

The cost breakdown includes a few key components like the screen, sound system, seating, and lighting. These will vary depending on your plan for the room. If you want the space to feel like a real movie theater, you may need to install risers or stadium-style seating to elevate seats and improve the view of the screen. 

In order to plan the home theater, first look at the overall design. This will help in figuring out the exact price. The floor type will have a big impact on the theater cost and experinece. Assuming you don't want to hear the movie throughout the entire home, soundproofing the room is vital. 

Instead of replacing hardwood floors, area rugs can go a long way and are much cheaper. In addition, wall decor like bookshelves helps to time sound reflections.

The sound system itsself will vary in cost, based on what you're looking for. A surround sound system will be the most expensive, but also create the best theater experience. This includes several speakers, subwoofers, and other components to create an immersive expereince. 

Remember to check local building codes in case you need a permit. Some home additions require permits, especially if they involve structural changes. In addition, check with your HOA before starting the project. Most HOAs focus on additions that impact the exterior of the home. Still, it never hurts to check, but it can set you back if the HOA finds out later in the process.

3. Home Theater Equipment Costs

When it comes to theater equipment, there are always expensive or more affordable options. For example, a projector and projector screen can cost as low as $250.

Some homeowners opt for a regular TV, because they can be much more affordable. While most items have risen in price over recent years, televisions have become more reasonably priced. You may need a large TV visibility option, which is why some people go for a projector. 

In addition to watching movies and shows, a theater room can be a great gaming room. A gaming console will add to the overall cost, but can be worth it. Especially if you work from home and need a quiet environment. The kids will have a separate space to play, hangout, and give you the much needed quiet. 

Here is a further breakdown of costs: 

As we previously stated, these costs will vary greatly. Doing the work on your own can save you much money, but remember it's your space and you can do what you want with it. For example, if the sound doesn't bother you, then maybe you don't need sound proofing. Or, you may not need surround sound, which saves you a large chunk of cash. 

4. Movie Theater Room Requirements

While the design aspects of your movie room are up to you, there are a couple requied factors to include. Most home theaters include good soundproofing, minimal light fixtures, comfortabel seating, a large projector, a surround sound system, and proper ventilation. 

Lighting might be one of the most important factors to create a cozy movie room. While you might want natural light throughout the rest of the home, it is not recommended in a home movie theater. Ambient light is unwanted light from outside sources like windows or around doors. While the room doesn't need windows, blackout curtains are the perfect alternative. 

An audio-visual component rack or A/V rack, is the main point for your source components. These include a Blu-ray player, cable box, or a network media streaming box. Remember this must be located near an electrical outlet and you may beed an Ethernet wire for reliable connection. 

Another optional part of the room are limited reflective objects. Anything that isn't the screen that reflects at the viewer should be minimized. Reduce use of shiny doorknobs, hinges, light fixtures, recessed light trim kits, countertops, and anything else in the viewers line of sight. 

Proper viewing and seating can make or break the room. Tiered seating is a a must, even 6-inchees can be enough to clear the sight lines for each viewer. Additionally, distance from the screen is determined by room size. Seating in the room does not have to cost thousands. Simple couches can do the job, as long as you're comfortable that is all that matters. 

5. Bringing the Room to Life

After figuring out the room layout, it is time to decorate. Decorating a home is normally the best part of being a homeowner. Now is time to put your personal touches after all your hard work. 

If decorating isn't your strong suit, there are many helpful apps for homeowners to decide how to design the room. For example, Pinterest is a great app to find decor inspiration. Simply type in some key words and you'll find hundreds of examples. 

In order to make the room look like a movie theater, rows of seting, dark drapes, and a large projector are recommended. While most theaters have dark walls and colors, it is still up to you. Some owners opt for specific themes, consider adding your favorite movie posters, popcorn machines, or simple decor pieces. 

The cost of props will vary, you can spend as much or as little money on decorations as you want. Consulting an interior designer can always be helpful, even if you know what you want. If you're lacking on design ideas, large curtains can double as decor and light blockers. 

If you opt for the standard movie seats, the average number of seats are between 4 and 8. Keep in mind that you may need side tables for snacks and drinks, console table for electronics, and other simple decor pieces around the room. 

Decor should be the final step after setting up the room layout. This way you don't spend money on unnessesary items that lead to clutter.  

FAQs: Home Movie Theater Cost

Here are some commonly asked questions about the cost to build a home movie theater. 

How expensive is a home theater?

The cost of a home theater will vary greatly between $10,000 and $50,000 with the average being around $17,000. Remember that the price may be different depending on the state of the room and many other factors. 

Are theater rooms worth it?

While deciding if a home addition is worth it, always consider how much use it will get. A home theater will add a great amount of value to your home, but it will only be worth it if you use it. 

How big should a home theater room be?

A home theater can be as big or small as you want, after all, it is your home. According to HGTV, the ideal space for a home theater is 20 feet long and 13 feet wide. This space creates a cozy and comfortable room.

Does a theater room need a window?

While most movie theaters don't have windows, it is up to you if your theater needs one. You should check with local building codes to learn any window requirments needed for egress purposes. This doesn't mean you can't still enjoy movies during the day, blackout curtains are a great option to block out the light. 

What color walls for a home theater?

Some colors can reflect the light off the TV and cause distractions. In most cases, black is the ideal choice as it aborbs light. However, you can paint the walls any color you want, but a darker shade is recommended. 

Methodology

We used information and data from several different sources, as well as our own data, to determine everything you need to know about the cost of building a home movie theater. Most of the data was sourced from the following sources:

• HGTV
• Angi's List

Home Movie Theater Cost - The Bottom Line

Building your dream movie theater includes many factors depending on the set up of the room. The aspects include the room size, type and quality of equipment, materials, additional features, labor, and decor. 

If you are a new homeowner, building your home from scratch then this addition is a great option. It may be a long and stressful process, however, once you have the perfect theater, it will all be worth it. 

A home theater can be anywhere in the home, but most homeowners put it in the basement. A finsihed basement or attic is a significant investment, and the overall cost will depend on your individual needs and aspirations for the space. 

If you are on the search for your next home, Raleigh, NC, is one of the fastest growing areas in the country, with many homes with finished basements to choose from. Feel free to contact one of our trustworthy real estate specialists, as they are eager to help you find the perfect home. Buying a home can be overwhelming, but a trusted agent can walk you through the entire process.