How Much Does It Cost to Combine Two Apartments in NYC? (Filing + Construction Costs)
Combining two apartments in NYC is not as simple as just breaking down some walls—it’s about navigating bureaucracy, hiring the right team, and budgeting for both paperwork and sledgehammers. Whether it’s a massive penthouse or finally giving your growing family breathing room, understanding the true cost breakdown is crucial before you sign that first check.
The Filing Fees: Bureaucracy Has a Price Tag
Before construction can start, you’ll need to sweet-talk the NYC Department of Buildings with the proper documentation.
Here’s what you’re looking at:
- Architectural plans: $5,000–$15,000 (depending on complexity)
- DOB filing fees: $1,500–$3,000
- Expeditor services: $2,000–$5,000 (trust me, you want this)
- Engineering reports: $3,000–$8,000
All in all, approximately $11,500 to $31,000, just for filing. Yes, you are paying thousands just for permission to renovate your property. Welcome to New York!
Construction Costs: Where Your Budget Really Disappears
Demo and Structural Work.
Once you obtain the appropriate permits, the fun begins. For demolition, prepare to spend $3,000 to $8,000, but this is just a warm-up. If you are removing load-bearing walls, then get ready to install steel beams that run you $5,000-$15,000 per beam. Most combined projects need 2-3 beams.
The Build-Out.
And now, the creative and the expensive part. In NYC, Full gut renovations for combined apartments typically cost $200–$400 per square foot. That’s roughly $400,000 to $800,000 for a 2,000-square-foot combined unit.
Your construction budget includes:
- Plumbing and electrical rewiring: $25,000–$60,000
- Flooring throughout: $15,000–$40,000
- Kitchen installation: $50,000–$150,000+
- Bathroom renovations: $30,000–$75,000 each
- Painting and finishes: $10,000–$25,000
HVAC and Systems
Don’t forget the invisible infrastructure! Combining apartments means upgrading your HVAC system ($15,000–$35,000), potentially rewiring your entire electrical panel ($8,000–$15,000), and ensuring your plumbing can handle the new layout.
Hidden Costs You Didn’t See Coming
Budget an extra 15-20% for surprises:
- Co-op or condo board fees: $500–$2,000
- Building alteration agreements: $1,000–$3,000
- Temporary relocation costs: $3,000–$10,000/month
- Furniture and window treatments: Sky’s the limit!
Asbestos or lead paint remediation can add another $5,000–$15,000 if you’re in an older building.
The Grand Total: What’s the Damage?
For a typical NYC apartment combination, expect to invest:
- Modest renovation: $450,000–$650,000
- Mid-range project: $650,000–$900,000
- Luxury build-out: $1,000,000+
These numbers assume you’re combining two average-sized apartments (1,000 square feet each) in a Manhattan or prime Brooklyn building.
Making Your Dream Home a Reality
Combining apartments transforms how you live—more space for family dinners, home offices, or that art studio you’ve always wanted. While the costs might make your eyes water, the investment creates lasting value and a truly custom living space that matches your lifestyle perfectly.
The key is working with experienced professionals who understand NYC’s unique challenges and can keep your project on budget and on schedule.
Transform your vision into reality with NYC Renovation. Our team specializes in apartment combinations throughout Manhattan and Brooklyn, handling everything from DOB filings to the final coat of paint. Visit nycrenovation.com today for a free consultation and let’s discuss how we can create your dream space without the nightmare budget surprises.
