Category Archives: Church Signs

If your church needs or wants a new sign, it is exciting but also the cost may be a little daunting at first! In this post we will look at the typical prices for Church signs here ion Arizona and why the costs vary. Read on to learn more.

Typical price ranges (realistic starting points)

Church sign projects vary widely, but here in Arizona most church signs fall somewhere between about $5,000 and $50,000, depending on whether you want a simple marquee or a full LED digital display. Davis Signs

If you’re eyeing an LED/digital marquee (the ones with scrolling messages and color), expect the entry level  around the high $6k–$8k mark and climb substantially for larger, full-color displays. Those give great visibility, but they’re an investment. MetroCenter Signworks

Conversely, if you want a tall road-visible pylon or pole sign, costs can vary enormously, anywhere from roughly $8,000 up into the hundreds of thousands for very large, illuminated structures, depending on height, materials and engineering. Arizona Commercial Signs+1

Monument signs. the sturdy stone/ stucco signs at the front of many churches tend to be priced by complexity and size; a rough industry guideline is $150–$400 per square foot (more for premium stone and lighting). Arizona Commercial Signs

What actually drives the price?

Several things, and they’re mostly predictable:

• Size & visibility: Bigger = more materials, heavier foundations, possibly cranes.

• Type: Simple routed-letter or changeable-letter marquees cost far less than LED matrix displays.

• Materials & finish: Stucco/stone monument signs cost more than painted metal or routed HDU.

• Electrical & site work: Power, conduit, trenching, and lighting add labor and permit costs.

• Installation complexity: Tight access, traffic control, or needed cranes increase labor.

• Permits & engineering: Many cities/counties require permits, site plans, and sometimes structural engineering especially for tall signs. If you are planning a particularly large or tall sign you may also want to consider the impact it may have on people who live or work in the vicinity of your church.

Phoenix-specific notes (sun, permits, and common sense)

Arizona sun and heat matter. UV/heat resistant finishes and high-quality LED modules will cost more up front but hold up far better in the Valley than bargain materials. Also, check local zoning and sign codes early, a permitted sign is the painless route; an after-the-fact fix is expensive.

Ways to save (without skimping on safety or impact)

• Decide what you need vs. want. A readable, lit monument or a small LED marquee may be all you really need.

• Get 2–3 detailed quotes that break out materials, installation, electrical and permits. (Don’t accept “package” pricing with no line items.)

• Reuse bases or foundations where possible, retrofitting an existing footprint can save big.

• Bundle projects: If you’re updating multiple signs or site lighting, bundling can reduce mobilization costs.

Maintenance & lifetime costs

Remember the long game: LED modules, drivers, and face materials all have lifespans. A cheaper sign might mean earlier replacement or higher maintenance bills, calculate 5–10 year maintenance into the budget.

Final friendly advice

Start with a clear priority list: (1) visibility/safety, (2) budget, (3) style. Bring a site photo and a wish list to your sign contractor. that’ll get you a realistic quote fast. If you want to swap a digital board for a simpler marquee, you’ll save money; if you need highway-level visibility, be ready to invest for the return.

At Davis-Signs.com, we love helping Arizona churches find the balance between beautiful, durable, and affordable. Give us a call or send a photo of your property, we’ll give you an honest, written estimate and options that fit your congregation and budget.

 

The cost of church signs can vary widely depending on factors such as size, materials, design complexity, and installation requirements. Here are some approximate cost ranges for different types of church signs:

1. Basic Church Signs:
   • Cost Range: $1,000 – $5,000
   • Description: Simple signage with basic lettering and graphics, typically made of materials like aluminum, PVC, or HDU (High-Density Urethane). These signs are often mounted on posts or walls near the entrance of the church.
2. Digital Church Signs:
   • Cost Range: $10,000 – $50,000+
   • Description: LED or electronic message signs that can display dynamic content such as announcements, event schedules, and inspirational messages. These signs offer versatility and visibility but come with higher initial and maintenance costs.
3. Monument Church Signs:
   • Cost Range: $5,000 – $20,000+
   • Description: Freestanding signs typically made of durable materials like brick, stone, or concrete. Monument signs provide a more prominent and permanent presence for the church and can include custom features like integrated lighting or landscaping.
4. Pylon Church Signs:
   • Cost Range: $20,000 – $100,000+
   • Description: Tall, freestanding signs mounted on poles or pillars, often located near roadways or parking lots for maximum visibility. Pylon signs are suitable for larger churches or campuses and can incorporate multiple panels, branding elements, and architectural details.
5. Wayfinding and Directional Signs:
   • Cost Range: $500 – $5,000+
   • Description: Signs designed to guide visitors to various areas of the church property, including parking lots, entrances, classrooms, and facilities. These signs can be simple or elaborate depending on the size and layout of the church campus.

It’s essential to consider not only the upfront cost of the sign but also long-term factors such as maintenance, energy consumption (for digital signs), and local regulations or permits. Additionally, custom designs or special features may incur additional costs but can enhance the aesthetics and functionality of the church sign. Consulting with a reputable signage company or contractor can help determine the best options within the church’s budget and requirements.

Church signs come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and styles, each with its own unique cost considerations. To give you a clearer picture, let’s explore the factors that influence the price tag of your church sign:

Type of Sign:

• Monument signs: These freestanding signs, often made of brick or stone, are highly visible and durable but come at the highest cost, ranging from $5,500 to $18,000+ depending on size and materials.
• Channel letter signs: These 3D illuminated letters offer great visibility and a modern look, costing between $1,500 and $10,000+ based on size, complexity, and lighting.
• Marquees: These traditional electronic signs with changeable letters are a classic choice, with prices ranging from $5,000 to $10,000+ for basic models and significantly higher for digital options.
• Acrylic signs: Flat panels with printed graphics offer a budget-friendly option, costing between $200 and $2,000+ depending on size and printing method.
• Banners: Flexible and temporary, these are a good choice for temporary announcements, ranging from $100 to $500+ based on size and material.

Size:

Naturally, larger signs require more material and labor, driving up the cost. This applies to all types of signs mentioned above.

Materials: From budget-friendly vinyl to premium stainless steel, material choices significantly impact the price. For example, acrylic is cheaper than metal for channel letters, while aluminum is often more affordable than steel for monument signs.

Illumination: Illuminated signs, especially those using LED lighting, are more expensive than non-illuminated ones. This can significantly increase the cost of marquees and channel letters.

Design and Complexity: Intricate designs, custom fonts, and additional elements like logos or 3D lettering all contribute to the price. Simpler designs with standard fonts are generally more budget-friendly.

Fabrication and Installation: Professional fabrication and installation, especially for large or complex signs, add to the overall cost. Consider getting quotes from multiple sign companies to compare prices.

Permits and Regulations: Local zoning laws and permit requirements can influence the feasibility and cost of your chosen sign type. Make sure to check with your local authorities before finalizing your plans.

Additional Considerations

• Warranty: Opting for a longer warranty might come at a premium but provides peace of mind.
• Maintenance and repair: All signs require some level of maintenance and potential repairs over time. Factor in these long-term costs when budgeting.
• Energy Efficiency: LED lighting offers significant energy savings compared to traditional options, especially for illuminated signs.

Cost Saving Tips:

• Define your budget and choose a sign type that fits it.
• Opt for standard sizes and simpler designs to keep costs down.
• Compare quotes from different sign companies and negotiate if possible.
• Consider non-illuminated options unless nighttime visibility is crucial.
• Explore alternative materials like acrylic or vinyl for smaller signs.
• Utilize volunteer help for installation if feasible and permitted.

Remember:

• Church signs play a vital role in community outreach and brand recognition.
• Investing in quality materials and professional fabrication ensures longevity and optimal impact.
• Balancing cost with desired features and potential cost-saving options can help you get the most out of your church sign investment.