How much does it cost to put a sign up?

Installing a sign may seem like a simple task, but the reality is far more nuanced. The cost of putting up a sign varies widely based on several factors, including sign type, size, materials, labor, and location. Whether you're a small business owner looking to increase visibility or a corporate entity in need of a large monument sign, understanding these cost variables is essential to budgeting and planning effectively.

In this guide, we’ll walk through the average costs, break down influencing factors, and offer expert tips to help you navigate your signage project with confidence.

Average Cost to Install an Outdoor Sign

Outdoor business signs can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand depending on size and complexity. On average:

• Small wall-mounted signs: $200 – $1,000

• Medium-sized freestanding signs: $1,500 – $5,000

• Large monument signs: $12,000 – $350,000+

  
  

High-end examples, such as those seen at national preserves or public landmarks, may include custom concrete, stone, rebar, or porcelain enamel materials—driving up the cost significantly.

For example, the monument sign at Big Cypress National Preserve measured 12.5 ft x 26 ft and weighed over 200,000 lbs. Despite its size and material complexity, the installation was completed in 6 weeks.

Key Cost Factors

1. Material Selection

Choosing the right material is one of the biggest cost drivers. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Material	Use Case	Notes
HPL (High Pressure Laminate)	Long-term outdoor use	Highly durable, vandal-resistant
Aluminum	DOT and light outdoor use	Lightweight, can fade with time
HDU (High-Density Urethane)	Dimensional or painted signage	Lightweight, good for 3D effects
HDPE	Basic two-tone signage	Lower cost, limited design flexibility
Cedar / Oak Wood	Rustic signage for trails or lodges	Natural appearance, not as durable
Fiberglass	Rare now, formerly used for durability	Lightweight, but largely outdated

Tip: Avoid odd sizing. Staying under 48"x96" avoids oversized pricing and improves material efficiency.

2. Sign Type

• Wall Signs: Mounted on existing walls. Typically cheaper due to no added structure.

• Monument Signs: Freestanding structures, often built with stone or metal bases—are significantly more expensive.

• Pylon Signs: Tall, vertical signs seen at strip malls or highways.

• Digital Signs: Incorporate LED or LCD displays; initial investment is high but offers flexible messaging.

  
  

3. Design & Customization

Design services may or may not be included in your quote. Some vendors, like Wood Product Signs, offer free design with unlimited revisions, making them an ideal partner for custom projects.

Key features that impact cost:

• Custom branding & graphics

• Reflective coating for nighttime visibility

• QR code integration

• Tactile or Braille overlays for accessibility

• Anti-graffiti coating

  
  

“Most of our clients send rough sketches or ideas,” says Taylor from Wood Product Signs. “We help transform those into polished, compliant designs—especially for projects that require government or ADA compliance.”

4. Installation Costs

Installation is typically billed per day, not per sign. This cost may include:

• Travel and lodging for the installation crew

• Equipment (lifts, trucks, etc.)

• Labor

  
  

Typical Range: $3,000 – $6,000 per day Most projects take 1–3 days

Planning a large-scale install? Consider combining sign deliveries and installs across multiple locations to save on crew mobilization.

Signage Cost Calculator: Build a Budget-Friendly Plan

To help calculate your signage cost more accurately, use this formula:

(Sign Cost per sq ft x Size) + Installation + Design Fees + Optional Features = Total Cost.

Example for a 24"x36" HPL panel:

• Panel: $40/sq ft x 6 sq ft = $240

• Installation (1 day): $3,500

• Design: $0 (if included)

• UV coating & Braille: $50

  
  

Estimated Total: $3,790

Using a signage cost calculator can help break down these variables and adjust based on your exact needs and location.

How much does it cost to hang a sign

If you're hanging a sign—either indoors or outdoors—the cost depends on height, surface type, and required hardware. For example, hanging a lightweight banner on a storefront might only cost $200–$500, whereas installing dimensional letters on a high building façade could cost $1,000–$3,000+.

The tools and techniques also vary. Hanging signs on brick or concrete requires drilling and anchor bolts, while drywall may only need toggle bolts. For safety and durability, it’s often best to hire professional installers, especially when height or weather exposure is involved. Commercial Sign Installation Cost.

If you’re a business investing in brand visibility, commercial signs are one of your most effective tools. Whether for storefronts, campuses, or public landmarks, commercial signs should be treated as long-term investments.

Expect:

• Mid-tier installations cost between $5,000 – $15,000.

• Premium monument signs can reach $100,000+ depending on materials and location.

  
  

“It’s not just about visibility—it’s about storytelling, compliance, and endurance,” adds Taylor. “A well-designed sign can last decades and boost your brand’s credibility from day one.”

How Much Does It Cost to Put Up a Sign Near Me?

Local rates vary depending on:

• Urban vs. rural location

• Availability of licensed installers

• Local permits and regulations

  
  

For those searching “how much does it cost to put up a sign near me”, the best step is to contact vendors with local experience. Companies like Wood Product Signs can often assist with regional permitting and recommend efficient installation strategies tailored to your site. How much does it cost to put a sign on a building.

Mounting a sign directly onto a building typically costs between $500 and $5,000, depending on factors like sign type, required electrical connections, and installation height.

Channel letters with internal lighting mounted above a second-story window will cost significantly more than a small vinyl sign at street level.

Make sure to include permits, lighting access, and wind load considerations when planning signage on commercial buildings. A professional installer can evaluate your façade and help determine mounting feasibility.

Outdoor Business Signs: Are They Worth the Investment?

Absolutely. Outdoor business signs serve multiple roles:

• Drive foot traffic

• Reinforce brand presence

• Help with navigation and compliance

• Convey professionalism

They’re also one of the most cost-effective forms of advertising when measured over the sign’s lifetime. An HPL sign, for instance, can last 20+ years with minimal maintenance—making it a smart long-term investment.

Choosing the Right Partner

When budgeting and planning for outdoor signage, don’t just look at the base price. Factor in:

• Longevity

• Maintenance

• Visibility

• Compliance

  
  

Wood Product Signs delivers the complete package—from expert design and material selection to precision manufacturing and installation. With a proven track record on major public projects, we’re the trusted choice for custom, weatherproof outdoor signs built to perform.

Ready to take action? Contact our team now and turn your signage into a durable, high-impact landmark for decades to come.