What it is
A storm shelter or safe room is a small, very strong space built to protect people from tornadoes and severe wind. Shelters can go underground (in the yard or garage floor) or above ground (often in a garage or inside the house).
Look for shelters built and tested to the ICC 500 standard and FEMA safe room guidance. FEMA explains the standards at fema.gov.
Some states and counties have offered rebates through FEMA Hazard Mitigation Assistance or state programs. These open and close, so check with your state emergency management office.
Typical costs
National ranges from published cost guides. Your price depends on your land, your area, and the job. These are not quotes.
| Item | Typical range | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Storm shelter, typical | $2,892 – $13,281 (about $7,643 average) | Angi |
| In-ground shelter | $4,200 – $30,000 | Angi |
| Above-ground shelter | $2,600 – $15,000 | Angi |
| Safe room | $3,000 – $10,000 | Angi |
Sources checked October 2026. Get at least two or three written quotes.
Questions to ask a contractor
- Is this shelter tested to ICC 500? Can I see the paperwork?
- How is it anchored? Will you check for water-table or flooding problems for in-ground units?
- How many people does it hold? (FEMA guidance for home tornado shelters is at least 5 sq ft per person.)
- Is the door easy to open from inside, and can it be opened if debris lands on it?
- Is a permit needed? Who gets it?
- Do you know of any rebate programs open in my area?
FAQ
How big should a home storm shelter be?
For tornadoes, FEMA guidance for home shelters is at least 5 square feet per person, according to Angi. Plan for everyone in the household.
In-ground or above-ground?
In-ground shelters can work well where the ground is dry. Above-ground safe rooms suit high water tables and are easier to reach for people who cannot use stairs. Both can meet FEMA and ICC 500 standards.
Are there rebates?
Sometimes. Programs funded through FEMA Hazard Mitigation Assistance come and go by state and year. Check your state emergency management office before you buy.