The answer to 'how much does carpet cost' is that the cost of carpet can vary significantly depending on several factors. Carpet pricing is typically influenced by the quality of the carpet material, the size of the area to be covered, and the complexity of the installation.
In general, you can expect to pay anywhere from $2 to $8 per square foot for basic to mid-range carpeting, with higher-end options costing $10 or more per square foot. The installation cost can add another $1 to $3 per square foot on top of the material cost. Factors like the condition of the existing floor, the need for any subfloor preparation, and the complexity of the layout can all impact the installation price.