3D-printed concrete (3DPC) is an emerging construction technique that extrudes concrete to automatically fabricate structural elements. While prior studies indicate the environmental benefits of 3DPC, limitations include a lack of project-level inventory data and assessment of whole buildings. This study provided a comprehensive framework through a life cycle assessment (LCA) comparison by using 3DPC structures (3DPCS) with project-specific data and conventional masonry structures (CMS) for six-storey residential buildings sharing similar architecture designs. Findings showed that 3DPC reduced cost by 16.9 % due to a 64.1 % decrease in workforce requirements. Environmental impacts were lower by up to 72.5 % for 3DPCS compared to CMS, primarily due to the low-cement-content concrete mixture incorporating recycled aggregates. The research further identified opportunities to enhance the economic and sustainability advantages of 3DPCS versus traditional approaches by increasing the proportion of 3D-printed components and the utilization of 3D printers across different buildings. This empirical research validated 3DPCS sustainability benefits and provided strategies for further promotion of digital concrete techniques in urban and rural construction.