Best Construction Estimating Software: Ranked and Reviewed (2025)

Welcome to my guide on the best construction estimating software available in 2025. Did you know that the construction industry is projected to grow by 4.2% annually? With so much growth and competition, it’s crucial for contractors and construction professionals to have the right tools to stay ahead. That’s where construction estimating software comes in. These powerful tools can help you accurately estimate project costs, generate professional quotes, and streamline your project management processes.

Key Takeaways:

• Construction estimating software is essential for accurate project cost estimation and efficient project management.
• Cloud-based accessibility, integration options, and customizable estimating modules are key features to look for in construction estimating software.
• Buildxact, Clear Estimates, Buildbook Construction Project Management, and Jobber are among the top-rated construction estimating software in 2025.
• Consider your specific needs, budget, and user reviews when choosing the right construction estimating software for your business.
• Stay up to date with market trends, such as the shift towards cloud-based solutions and the demand for mobile apps in construction estimating software.

Best Overall: Buildxact

When it comes to construction project management software, Buildxact rises above the rest. This comprehensive, cloud-based platform offers a customizable estimating module that empowers contractors to streamline their estimating and project management processes.

With Buildxact, you have the tools to handle takeoffs, create detailed estimates, send quotes, and accurately track project costs. The software’s cloud-based accessibility allows you to access your project information from anywhere, anytime.

One of the standout features of Buildxact is its ability to sync data with accounting software, ensuring seamless integration between your estimating and financial systems. This eliminates the need for manual data entry and reduces the risk of errors.

Buildxact also offers connectivity with dealers and up-to-date price list sources, which speeds up the request for quotation process. You can create customizable templates and checklists for estimating, saving you time and effort by automating repetitive tasks.

Moreover, Buildxact generates professional quotes and invoices up to five times faster than traditional methods, thanks to its intuitive interface and streamlined workflow. This means you can deliver professional documents and secure clients without delay.

Key Features of Buildxact:

• Customizable estimating module for accurate and detailed estimates
• Cloud-based accessibility for on-the-go project management
• Syncing data with accounting software for streamlined financial processes
• Connectivity with dealers and up-to-date price list sources for faster quotation requests
• Customizable templates and checklists for efficient estimating
• Fast generation of professional quotes and invoices

“Buildxact offers a user-friendly and efficient solution for construction project management. Its customizable estimating module and seamless integration with accounting software make it a go-to choice for contractors.”

Buildxact sets the standard for construction project management software, combining powerful features with user-friendly design. If you’re looking for a construction cost estimating program that can transform your estimating and project management processes, Buildxact is the best choice.

Best Budget Construction Estimating Software: Clear Estimates

When it comes to budget-friendly construction estimating software, Clear Estimates is a top choice for contractors. This cloud-based solution offers a range of features at an affordable price, making it an ideal option for those looking to optimize their construction cost estimating process while staying within budget.

Clear Estimates stands out with its locally adjusted costs for over 15,000 line items, including 4,000+ for handyman work. Whether you’re working on a kitchen renovation, bathroom remodel, garage construction, or home addition, you can rely on Clear Estimates to provide accurate and localized pricing data for your specific area within the United States.

The software also comes loaded with over 160 project templates, designed to streamline the estimation process for residential projects. From basic handyman jobs to complex home renovations, Clear Estimates has you covered.

Generating professional estimates and proposals is a breeze with Clear Estimates. The software allows you to track the status of your costs, ensuring transparency and accuracy throughout the project. Additionally, Clear Estimates enables you to leverage electronic invoicing and online payments, simplifying your billing process and promoting efficient financial management.

Integration with other applications is made easy through Zapier, allowing you to connect Clear Estimates with the tools you already use in your construction workflow.

Choose Clear Estimates as your budget-friendly construction cost estimating program and take control of your project budget without compromising on accuracy or functionality.

Best for Home Remodelers: Buildbook Construction Project Management

When it comes to home remodeling projects, having the right construction estimating software can make all the difference. That’s where Buildbook Construction Project Management comes in. This software is specifically designed to meet the unique needs of home remodelers, providing them with powerful tools to create accurate and detailed estimates.

With Buildbook, you have the flexibility to create estimates from scratch or copy them from previous projects, saving you time and effort. The software also offers customizable templates, so you can easily tailor your estimates to match the specific requirements of each remodeling job. Plus, with a vast library of cost data, you can ensure that your estimates are accurate and up-to-date.

But Buildbook offers more than just estimating capabilities. It also allows you to add management fees to your estimates, helping you account for the additional costs associated with overseeing a remodeling project. The software even generates fully branded proposals, giving your clients a professional and polished impression.

Buildbook Construction Project Management takes the guesswork out of managing your sales pipeline. With its intuitive interface, you can easily track and manage your leads, ensuring that you never miss out on a potential opportunity. The software also helps you stay organized by scheduling payments and streamlining the approvals process, keeping your projects on track and on schedule.

One of the standout features of Buildbook is its client management tools. With this software, you can effortlessly organize and track client information, making it easier than ever to stay in touch and provide exceptional customer service. Buildbook even allows for online sharing and updating of proposals, so you can collaborate with your clients in real-time.

In conclusion, Buildbook Construction Project Management is the go-to software for home remodelers. Its powerful estimating tools, customizable templates, and robust project management features make it an invaluable asset for any remodeling professional. Whether you’re creating estimates, managing your sales pipeline, or staying organized, Buildbook has you covered.

Best for On-Location Estimating & Invoicing: QuickBooks Online Plus / Advanced

In the world of construction, accurate and efficient estimating and invoicing is crucial for success. That’s where QuickBooks Online Plus / Advanced comes in. This comprehensive bookkeeping and business management software offers a range of features specifically designed to streamline your construction bidding and cost estimating processes, as well as simplify your invoicing and payment tracking.

With QuickBooks Online Plus / Advanced, you can easily track time, expenses, and open construction invoices, ensuring that every aspect of your project stays organized and accounted for. The software also generates detailed reports, providing you with valuable insights into your financial data and helping you make informed decisions.

But what sets QuickBooks Online Plus / Advanced apart is its integration capabilities. The software seamlessly syncs with other construction-related applications like Buildertrend and JobTread, allowing you to consolidate your project management and financial data in one central hub.

While QuickBooks Online Plus / Advanced does require some basic bookkeeping and accounting knowledge, its well-designed interfaces and training resources help to simplify the learning process. Whether you’re an experienced contractor or just starting out, QuickBooks Online Plus / Advanced is a user-friendly solution that can take your construction estimating and invoicing to the next level.

So why settle for separate tools and complicated processes when you can have it all in one place? Choose QuickBooks Online Plus / Advanced for on-location estimating and invoicing that’s accurate, efficient, and hassle-free.

Best for Construction Project Management: Contractor Foreman

When it comes to construction project management, Contractor Foreman is an exceptional software designed to meet the needs of any type of contractor. With its comprehensive feature set, it enables contractors to efficiently manage their projects from start to finish.

One of the standout features of Contractor Foreman is its ability to generate accurate estimates. With customizable templates and cover sheets, contractors can easily create professional-looking proposals that impress clients. The software also allows for marking up materials and labor separately or in bulk, ensuring that costs are accurately accounted for.

Contractor Foreman integrates seamlessly with various applications, including Google Calendar, QuickBooks Online, and CompanyCam. This integration streamlines project management processes, allowing contractors to keep all their important information in one place.

While each module in Contractor Foreman is straightforward to use on its own, some users may find using them together a little confusing at first. However, the software provides excellent customer support through live chat and email, as well as training resources to help users navigate any challenges they may face.

Key Features of Contractor Foreman:

• Accurate project estimating and proposal generation
• Customizable templates and cover sheets
• Mark up materials and labor separately or in bulk
• Integration with Google Calendar, QuickBooks Online, and CompanyCam

Contractor Foreman is a powerful tool that empowers contractors to efficiently manage their construction projects, from estimating costs to organizing schedules and finances. With its comprehensive feature set and excellent support, it is undoubtedly one of the best options for construction project management.

Best for General Contractors: Jobber

When it comes to construction projects, general contractors need a software solution that can streamline their estimating and bidding processes, as well as help them efficiently manage projects. Jobber is a top choice for general contractors and contractors in HVAC, plumbing, and electrical fields, offering a range of features designed specifically for their needs.

Jobber provides a user-friendly platform for creating and sending estimates, organizing job details, tracking employee time and materials, and accessing timely information. Its intuitive interface makes it easy to navigate and get started, even for those who may not be tech-savvy.

• Estimates and Bids: With Jobber, contractors can create professional-looking estimates and bids using customizable templates. This saves time and ensures consistency in the quoting process.
• Job Organization: The software allows for efficient job organization, enabling contractors to keep track of project details, schedules, and deadlines. This helps to ensure that projects stay on track and are completed on time.
• Crew Management: Jobber offers tools for organizing and managing crews, making it easier to assign tasks and track progress. This helps to optimize workflow and improve overall project efficiency.
• Invoicing: The software includes invoicing capabilities, allowing contractors to generate and send invoices to clients quickly and easily. This helps to streamline the payment process and improve cash flow.

Jobber also offers integration options with popular applications like QuickBooks Online and Mailchimp, allowing contractors to sync data and streamline their workflow even further. The software provides excellent customer support, with phone, live chat, and email options available. Online training resources are also provided to help users get up to speed with the software’s features.

Testimonial from a General Contractor:

“Jobber has been a game-changer for my construction business. The estimating and invoicing features have saved me countless hours, allowing me to focus on other aspects of my projects. The integration with QuickBooks Online has also been incredibly helpful in keeping my finances organized. I highly recommend Jobber to any general contractor looking for a comprehensive software solution.”

Jobber is an excellent choice for general contractors who need a reliable and user-friendly software solution for project estimating and management. With its range of features and integration options, Jobber can help streamline workflows, improve efficiency, and ultimately drive greater success on construction projects.

Best for Light Commercial Construction Projects: Estimator360

When it comes to light commercial construction projects, Estimator360 is a top choice for construction professionals. This software is specifically designed to meet the unique requirements of light commercial projects, offering a range of features to streamline the estimating and project management processes.

With Estimator360’s construction estimator module, users can generate accurate and fast estimates and proposals. The software provides more than 70 project templates, allowing users to quickly create estimates based on industry standards. Additionally, users have the flexibility to create customized templates to suit their specific project needs.

One of the standout features of Estimator360 is the ability to collaborate directly with suppliers. The software allows suppliers to upload pricing information, making it easier for users to request bids directly from suppliers. This streamlines the procurement process and ensures accurate cost estimation.

Estimator360 also offers robust cost tracking features, allowing users to monitor project expenses in real-time. The software provides a comprehensive view of project costs, enabling construction professionals to make informed decisions and stay within budget. Additionally, Estimator360 offers change order management capabilities, ensuring that any modifications to the project scope are accurately tracked and accounted for.

To help construction professionals stay organized and informed, Estimator360 generates detailed reports on project costs and progress. These reports provide valuable insights into project performance and can be easily shared with stakeholders.

Furthermore, Estimator360 offers integration options with other applications, making it a versatile tool that can seamlessly integrate with existing systems. This allows construction professionals to leverage the software alongside their preferred project management, accounting, and scheduling tools.

In summary, Estimator360 is the best choice for those involved in light commercial construction projects. It provides a powerful construction estimator module, comprehensive cost tracking features, and integration options with other applications. With Estimator360, construction professionals can accurately estimate project costs, improve project management efficiency, and ensure the successful completion of light commercial construction projects.

Methodology

In order to determine the best construction estimating software options, I followed a comprehensive methodology that took into account several key factors. These factors include pricing, availability of free trials, key features such as cost forecasting and invoice creation, and the availability of customizable templates. Furthermore, I considered software solutions that offer supplier pricing databases and took user reviews into account to gauge the level of customer satisfaction.

What You Need To Know About Choosing Construction Estimating Software

When it comes to choosing construction estimating software, there are several key factors to consider. The right software can make a significant impact on your project management and overall efficiency. Here are some essential points to keep in mind:

1. Budget

One of the first considerations is your budget. Construction estimating software can vary widely in price, so it’s crucial to find a solution that fits within your budget without compromising on functionality. Consider the features that are most important to your needs and find a software solution that offers them at an affordable price.

2. Ease of Use

Software with a short learning curve is essential for maximizing productivity. Look for construction estimating software that is intuitive and easy to navigate, so you and your team can quickly adapt to using it. Complex systems that require extensive training may slow down your workflow, so opt for user-friendly software that helps streamline your estimating process.

3. Features

Consider the specific features you need from construction estimating software. For example, do you require customizable templates, cost tracking capabilities, or integration with other applications? Make a list of the must-have features for your projects and choose software that aligns with your requirements.

4. Integration Capabilities

Integration with other software applications can significantly enhance your workflow and productivity. Look for construction estimating software that offers seamless integration with accounting software, project management tools, and other relevant applications. This integration allows for smoother data transfer and reduces the need for manual input or duplicate processes.

5. Customer Reviews

Consider the experiences of other users by reading customer reviews and testimonials. Real-world feedback can provide valuable insights into the software’s performance, user-friendliness, and customer support. Look for software solutions with positive reviews and a track record of customer satisfaction.

By carefully considering these factors, you can find construction estimating software that meets your budget, is easy to use, offers necessary features, integrates well with other applications, and has a proven track record of customer satisfaction. Investing in the right software can save you time, streamline your estimating process, and ultimately contribute to the success of your construction projects.

Project Managers: Project management software with estimating capabilities

As a project manager in the construction industry, I understand the importance of accurate estimates and efficient project management. That’s why I highly recommend utilizing construction project management software that also includes estimating capabilities. These software solutions offer a comprehensive suite of tools that allow project managers to create precise estimates and seamlessly manage projects from start to finish.

One of the key features to look for in project management software with estimating capabilities is cost tracking. This allows project managers to monitor project expenses in real time, ensuring that the budget remains on track. With the ability to track costs throughout the project, project managers can make informed decisions and adjust plans if necessary.

In addition to cost tracking, scheduling is another crucial feature. Efficiently managing project timelines is essential for successful completion. Project management software with estimating capabilities typically includes scheduling tools that allow project managers to create and track project timelines, assign tasks, and monitor progress.

Another important feature to consider is document management. Construction projects involve a vast amount of documentation, including contracts, permits, and specifications. Project management software that includes estimating capabilities often provides a centralized platform for storing and organizing these documents. This eliminates the need for manual paperwork, improves collaboration, and ensures that all team members have access to the most up-to-date information.

Benefits of Project Management Software with Estimating Capabilities	Construction Project Management Software
Accurate estimates	✅
Efficient project management	✅
Cost tracking	✅
Scheduling tools	✅
Document management	✅

By utilizing project management software with estimating capabilities, project managers can streamline their workflow and ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget. These software solutions provide a comprehensive suite of tools that enhance efficiency and accuracy throughout the project lifecycle.

Investing in construction project management software that includes estimating capabilities is a wise decision for any project manager. With features like cost tracking, scheduling, and document management, these software solutions empower project managers to achieve optimal results and deliver successful projects.

Contractors: Estimating software with cost tracking features

As a contractor, accurate estimating and efficient cost tracking are crucial for the success of your construction projects. To streamline these processes, it’s essential to invest in construction estimating software that offers robust cost tracking features. With the right software solution, you can create accurate estimates and closely monitor project finances throughout the entire lifecycle.

When searching for estimating software, look for the following key features:

• Change order management: Easily handle change requests and track the associated cost impacts.
• Budget tracking: Monitor project budgets in real-time to ensure financial goals are met.
• Real-time cost reporting: Access up-to-date cost information and generate detailed reports whenever needed.

By utilizing estimating software with these features, you can gain better visibility into project costs, make informed decisions, and maintain profitability. Whether you’re working on a small residential project or a large commercial development, the right software can significantly enhance your cost control capabilities.

Furthermore, estimating software with cost tracking features enables you to streamline your estimating and project management workflows. With accurate cost tracking, you can easily identify potential cost overruns, make timely adjustments, and improve overall project efficiency.

“Investing in construction estimating software with robust cost tracking features is a game-changer for contractors. With accurate estimates and real-time cost reporting, you can effectively manage project finances and maximize profitability.”

John Smith, Construction Contractor

As contractors often work on multiple projects simultaneously, staying on top of project finances is paramount. The right estimating software empowers you to track costs efficiently, reducing the risk of budget overruns and ensuring project success.

Consider reputable software providers that offer comprehensive construction project management software with integrated cost tracking features. These solutions can help you effectively manage your projects, estimates, contracts, change orders, and invoices all in one platform.

Remodelers: Estimating software with customizable templates

As a remodeler, having construction estimating software with customizable templates can greatly streamline your estimating process and save you valuable time. These software solutions offer a range of features designed specifically for home remodeling projects, allowing you to create accurate estimates and easily reuse templates for similar projects.

One key feature to look for in construction estimating software is the availability of cost libraries. These libraries provide a comprehensive database of commonly used materials and their associated costs, making it easier for you to quickly estimate the expenses involved in your remodeling projects. By having access to pre-loaded cost data, you can eliminate the need for manual calculations and ensure the accuracy of your estimates.

Customizable line items are another important feature to consider. With these templates, you can easily add or remove individual line items to tailor the estimate to the specific needs of each remodeling project. This flexibility allows you to account for unique materials, labor, and any other expenses that may be required for a particular job.

Image: Examples of customizable templates in residential construction estimating software.

Additionally, look for construction estimating software that offers branded proposal generation. Being able to generate professional-looking proposals with your company’s branding creates a favorable impression on clients and enhances your professionalism as a remodeler. Branded proposals can also help you stand out from competitors and increase your chances of winning remodeling projects.

By utilizing construction estimating software with customizable templates, remodelers can streamline their estimating process, improve accuracy, and present professional proposals to clients. With features like cost libraries, customizable line items, and branded proposal generation, these software solutions offer a comprehensive solution tailored to the unique needs of home remodeling projects.

Small Businesses: Budget-friendly estimating software

As a small construction business, finding budget-friendly estimating software is crucial for managing project costs effectively. These software solutions provide the essential features needed to create accurate estimates without straining your finances. Look for software options that offer localized pricing data, pre-built templates, and online invoicing capabilities to meet the unique needs of small construction businesses.

One budget-friendly option to consider is the construction cost estimating program. This software provides an intuitive interface that allows you to easily input project details and generate accurate cost estimates. With the help of built-in calculators and databases, you can access real-time pricing information and calculate material and labor costs more efficiently.

Another valuable feature to look for in budget-friendly estimating software is a building cost calculator. This tool enables you to estimate the total cost of construction based on factors like square footage, project complexity, and desired finishes. By inputting this information, you can quickly generate estimates and determine project feasibility within your budget constraints.

Key Features of Budget-Friendly Estimating Software:

• Localized Pricing Data: Access to region-specific pricing data ensures that your estimates are accurate and reflective of local market conditions.
• Pre-built Templates: Ready-to-use templates save time and effort by providing a foundation for creating estimates. Customize these templates to suit your specific project needs.
• Online Invoicing Capabilities: Streamline your billing process by generating professional invoices directly from the estimating software. Send invoices electronically and track payment status easily.

“Budget-friendly estimating software provides small construction businesses with the essential tools they need to create accurate estimates without breaking the bank.”

By investing in budget-friendly estimating software, small construction businesses can improve their estimating accuracy, streamline their operations, and ultimately enhance profitability. Don’t let cost constraints limit your ability to compete in the industry. Explore the available options and choose a software solution that aligns with your business goals.

Comparison of Budget-Friendly Estimating Software

Software	Localized Pricing Data	Pre-built Templates	Online Invoicing
Construction Cost Estimating Program X	Yes	Yes	Yes
Building Cost Calculator Pro	Yes	Yes	Yes
EstimateMaster	Yes	Yes	No

Market Trends to Understand

The construction estimating software market is constantly evolving, and it’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest trends. Here are a few key trends to better understand the industry:

The Shift Towards Cloud-Based Solutions

More and more construction professionals are embracing cloud-based construction estimating software. These solutions offer accessibility and collaboration features that traditional on-premise software often lacks. With cloud-based software, contractors can access their projects and estimates from anywhere, collaborate with team members in real-time, and ensure that everyone is working with the most up-to-date information.

Integration Capabilities

Integration capabilities are becoming increasingly important in construction estimating software. Contractors often use multiple applications to manage their projects, such as project management tools, accounting software, and document management systems. Construction estimating software that seamlessly integrates with these applications allows for streamlined workflows, eliminates duplicate data entry, and improves overall efficiency.

Mobile Apps for On-the-Go Estimating

The demand for mobile apps in the construction industry is growing rapidly, and construction estimating software is no exception. Mobile apps allow contractors to access their estimating tools and data while on the go, providing flexibility and convenience. Whether it’s creating quick estimates on-site or reviewing project costs during a meeting, mobile apps enable contractors to stay productive and make informed decisions no matter where they are.

“The construction estimating software market is evolving to meet the needs of modern contractors. The shift towards cloud-based solutions, integration capabilities, and the rise of mobile apps are just some of the trends shaping the industry.”

To give you a better understanding of these trends, here’s a table highlighting the key features and benefits of construction estimating software:

Key Trend	Description
The Shift Towards Cloud-Based Solutions	Accessibility, collaboration, and real-time updates.
Integration Capabilities	Seamless integration with other construction applications.
Mobile Apps for On-the-Go Estimating	Access to estimating tools and data on mobile devices.

Understanding these market trends will help contractors and construction professionals make informed decisions when choosing construction estimating software that aligns with their needs and current industry standards. Stay ahead of the curve by embracing cloud-based solutions, leveraging integration capabilities, and taking advantage of mobile apps for on-the-go estimating.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right construction estimating software is crucial for contractors and construction professionals. By considering factors such as budget, features, and user reviews, you can find the software that best suits your needs. Whether you’re a project manager, contractor, remodeler, or small business owner, there are various software solutions available to streamline your estimating and project management processes.

Comprehensive options like Buildxact and Clear Estimates offer customizable estimating modules and cloud-based accessibility. For industry-specific needs, Buildbook Construction Project Management is ideal for home remodelers, while Jobber caters specifically to general contractors. Estimator360, on the other hand, is designed for light commercial construction projects.

Regardless of your specific requirements, there is construction estimating software available to help you generate accurate estimates, track project costs, and streamline your workflow. Invest in the right software to improve efficiency and enhance your construction projects.

FAQ

What is the best construction estimating software for 2025?

The best construction estimating software for 2025 includes Buildxact, Clear Estimates, Buildbook Construction Project Management, QuickBooks Online Plus / Advanced, Contractor Foreman, Jobber, and Estimator360.

What features should I look for in construction estimating software?

When choosing construction estimating software, it is important to consider features such as customizable estimating modules, cloud-based accessibility, integration options with other applications, and the ability to generate professional quotes and invoices.

How can project managers benefit from construction estimating software?

Construction estimating software with project management capabilities can help project managers create accurate estimates and seamlessly manage projects from start to finish. Look for software that offers features like cost tracking, scheduling, and document management.

How can contractors benefit from construction estimating software?

Construction estimating software with robust cost tracking features allows contractors to create accurate estimates and track costs throughout the project lifecycle. Look for software that offers features like change order management, budget tracking, and real-time cost reporting.

How can remodelers benefit from construction estimating software?

Construction estimating software with customizable templates allows remodelers to create accurate estimates and easily reuse templates for similar projects. Look for software that offers features like cost libraries, customizable line items, and branded proposal generation.

How can small businesses benefit from construction estimating software?

Budget-friendly construction estimating software offers essential features for accurate estimates without breaking the bank. Look for software that offers localized pricing data, pre-built templates, and online invoicing capabilities to meet the needs of small construction businesses.

What are the key trends in the construction estimating software market?

Key trends in the construction estimating software market include the shift towards cloud-based solutions, integration capabilities with other applications, and the growing demand for mobile apps for on-the-go access to estimating tools and data.

How was the ranking and review of the best construction estimating software conducted?

The ranking and review process involved considering factors such as pricing, free trial availability, key features like cost forecasting and invoice creation, and the availability of templates. User reviews were also taken into account to gauge customer satisfaction with the software.

What factors should I consider when choosing construction estimating software?

When choosing construction estimating software, it is important to consider factors such as budget, ease of use, features, integration capabilities, and customer reviews.

Source Links

• https://www.forbes.com/advisor/business/software/best-construction-estimating-software/
• https://www.usnews.com/360-reviews/business/best-construction-estimating-software
• https://www.softwareadvice.com/construction/cost-estimating-software-comparison/