How Much Does Well Drilling Cost? (2026 Complete Price Guide)
The average cost to drill a residential water well in 2026 is $25 to $65 per foot, with most homeowners paying between $6,000 and $16,000 total for a complete 200-foot well with pump and casing. However, your actual cost depends heavily on well depth, soil conditions, your location, and the type of pump system you choose.
This guide breaks down every cost you'll encounter so you can budget accurately before hiring a well driller.
Average Well Drilling Cost by Depth
Depth is the single biggest factor in your total well cost. Deeper wells require more drilling time, more casing, and more powerful pumps.
| Well Depth | Drilling Cost | Total Installed Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 100 feet | $2,500 – $6,500 | $5,000 – $10,000 |
| 200 feet | $5,000 – $13,000 | $8,000 – $16,000 |
| 300 feet | $7,500 – $19,500 | $12,000 – $23,000 |
| 400 feet | $10,000 – $26,000 | $16,000 – $30,000 |
Total installed cost includes drilling, casing, grout, pump, pressure tank, electrical connections, and basic plumbing tie-in.
Well Drilling Cost by State
Costs vary significantly by state due to geology, labor rates, and permitting requirements.
| State | Cost per Foot | Typical Depth | Average Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Florida | $25 – $50 | 80 – 200 ft | $5,000 – $12,000 |
| Texas | $30 – $55 | 100 – 300 ft | $7,000 – $15,000 |
| North Carolina | $30 – $60 | 100 – 250 ft | $7,000 – $14,000 |
| Pennsylvania | $35 – $65 | 150 – 300 ft | $9,000 – $18,000 |
| Michigan | $30 – $55 | 80 – 200 ft | $6,000 – $13,000 |
| Ohio | $30 – $55 | 100 – 250 ft | $7,000 – $14,000 |
What Factors Affect Well Drilling Cost?
1. Depth
Every additional foot of drilling adds $25–$65 to your bill. Depth is determined by your local water table and geology — you don't get to choose it.
2. Soil and Rock Type
Drilling through soft sand or clay is faster and cheaper ($25–$40/ft). Hitting granite, limestone, or other hard rock increases costs to $45–$65/ft due to slower drilling and more equipment wear.
3. Pump Type
A basic submersible pump runs $400–$1,200. A constant-pressure variable-speed system can cost $2,000–$4,000. Your well depth determines which pump you need.
4. Permits
Well permits range from $50 to $500 depending on your state and county. Some areas also require soil tests or environmental reviews.
| State | Typical Permit Cost |
|---|---|
| Florida | $75 – $250 |
| Texas | $50 – $150 |
| North Carolina | $100 – $350 |
| Pennsylvania | $50 – $200 |
| Michigan | $50 – $150 |
| Ohio | $50 – $200 |
5. Location and Accessibility
If the drill rig can't easily access your property — steep terrain, narrow driveways, or remote locations — expect to pay $500–$2,000 extra for site preparation.
What's Included vs. Extra Costs
Most well drilling quotes include:
- Drilling the borehole
- Steel or PVC casing
- Grout sealing
- Basic well cap
Common extras that are NOT included in many quotes:
- Submersible pump and installation ($800–$2,500)
- Pressure tank ($200–$600)
- Electrical hookup ($500–$1,500)
- Plumbing tie-in to house ($300–$1,000)
- Water testing ($100–$500)
- Water treatment system ($500–$3,000+)
Tip: Always ask for an all-inclusive quote so you can compare apples to apples between drillers.
How to Save Money on Well Drilling
- Get 3+ quotes — prices vary widely between drillers
- Drill in the dry season — drillers are less busy and may offer discounts
- Bundle services — some drillers offer discounts when you buy the pump and pressure tank through them
- Check for shared well options — splitting a well with a neighbor can cut costs significantly
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to drill a 200-foot well?
A 200-foot residential well typically costs $8,000 to $16,000 fully installed, including drilling, casing, pump, pressure tank, and electrical connections. The drilling portion alone runs $5,000 to $13,000.
Is it cheaper to drill a well or connect to city water?
City water connection fees range from $1,000 to $10,000+ depending on distance to the main line. A well costs more upfront but eliminates monthly water bills. Over 20 years, a well is usually cheaper if city water costs $60+/month in your area.
How long does it take to drill a well?
Most residential wells take 1–3 days to drill. The complete installation — including pump, electrical, and plumbing — typically takes 3–7 days total.
Do I need a permit to drill a well?
Yes, almost every state requires a well permit. Your well driller typically handles the permit application as part of the project. Costs range from $50 to $500 depending on your state.
Can I drill my own well to save money?
In most states, homeowners can legally drill their own well on their property. However, DIY well drilling is risky — improper construction can contaminate groundwater and is extremely difficult without professional equipment. Most experts strongly advise against it.