2023 Home Inspection Costs for Every U.S. Zip Code

In 2023, the U.S. real estate market is shifting. Mortgage rates are up, and the pandemic-era housing boom is slowing. 

While a home inspection might feel like another costly expense when buying a house, a home inspection is a necessary part of the home-buying process. Although home inspections might not be legally required, getting one will give you a good idea of what you'll need to fix in the home and the costs you can expect once you close. 

The bottom line: buying a home is an investment, and it's worth the extra cost to do your due diligence and get your home inspected. But how much does a home inspection cost?

Average home inspection cost by zip code

Just like housing prices, home inspection costs vary from state to state and even between zip codes. If you're looking to buy a home, it's useful to know what to expect for the cost of your home inspection. 

Keep in mind that many factors affect the cost of your home inspection beyond your location. In older homes, home inspectors may charge a higher fee due to concerns such as outdated and hard-to-access wiring and plumbing. Similarly, inspectors will often charge a flat inspection fee and add on to the cost based on additional square footage.  

That said, here's the average inspection quote for every zip code in the U.S.:

Spectora's data methodology

Spectora's data is sourced from over one million home inspections logged in the Spectora app from all 50 U.S. states, Canada, and Australia. This data is analyzed and condensed to fit the context of the page and to best inform the reader. A small number of U.S. zip codes may be missing due to a lack of data in those areas. 

Why should I get a home inspection?

The purpose of a home inspection is to ensure that a home is suitable to live in and to educate homebuyers on any potential issues or necessary fixes. In a home inspection, you can expect the inspector to look at all areas of the home for potential issues. 

Some homebuyers view a home inspection as a negotiating tool or want to forgo an inspection because they can deliver bad news. 

In reality, a home inspection is the best way for buyers to make an informed investment. 

"When you view the home inspection as a tool to help manage your home, the perspective changes," says Kevin Wagstaff, former realtor, and co-founder of Spectora Home Inspection Software. "The home inspection report will help speed up solving inevitable home improvement/repair issues. You'll know how to talk to contractors or simply know what to look for at Home Depot."

the most expensive zip codes for a home inspection

While the average cost of a home inspection in the U.S. is less than $500, wealthier areas with large homes and hot real estate markets have higher inspection costs. 

If you live in any of the following towns or neighborhoods, you can expect to pay a pretty penny for your home inspection. 

1. Yorba Linda, California: $3,062
2. Campbell County, Kentucky: $2,870
3. Woodland, Washington: $2,834
4. New London County, Connecticut: $2,623
5. Beverly Hills, California: $2,481
6. Lake County, Illinois: $2,304
7. Pinellas County, Florida: $1,853
8. Denver,  Colorado: $1,648
9. Detroit, Michigan: $1,600
10. Houston, Texas: $1,583

Frequently asked questions

What is the average home inspection cost in the U.S.?

The average home inspection in the U.S. costs $459. Keep in mind that this cost will vary based on the size and age of your home, your geographic location, and whether you choose to get add-on services with your inspection, such as radon or mold testing. 

Which states are the most expensive for home inspections?

The most expensive states for a home inspection, on average, are Connecticut, Vermont, and Hawaii. However, it's important to note that home inspection costs will be dependent on factors beyond location, such as the size and age of a home and the state of your local housing market.   

Do I need to get a home inspection?

A home inspection isn't required by law, but you should absolutely get a home inspected. And even though in most states, sellers are required to disclose fundamental problems in a home, a home inspection can reveal problems that a seller might not be aware of. 

Most real estate professionals recommend that homebuyers get a home inspection before closing. A home inspection will give you an idea of any expensive fixes or issues in a home, and help you avoid costly surprises.