Load-bearing vs not
A non-load-bearing (partition) wall is cheap to remove because nothing structural depends on it. A load-bearing wall holds weight from above, so it must be replaced with a properly sized beam and posts, which requires engineering and skilled labor.
What drives the cost
The price climbs with structural complexity:
- Beam type and span (wood vs steel)
- Number of floors above the wall
- Wiring, plumbing, or ducts inside the wall
- Structural engineer and permit fees