Well Drilling Cost Calculator

Well drilling costs $15–$70 per foot depending on depth and type. A shallow well under 50 ft costs $600–$1,500, a standard 100 ft residential well costs $2,000–$4,000, and a deep 250 ft well costs $7,500–$15,000. Add $500–$2,000 for a well pump, $300–$800 for a pressure tank, and $100–$500 for water testing. Total average project cost is $3,000–$15,000 including all components.

Residential well depth depends on local geology and the water table. Most residential wells are 100–400 feet deep. Shallow wells (under 50 ft) tap surface aquifers and are cheaper but more vulnerable to contamination and drought. Medium wells (50–150 ft) are the most common residential depth. Deep wells (150–300+ ft) access deeper aquifers with more reliable year-round water supply. Your well driller will know typical depths for your area — ask neighbors with wells for reference.

Most residential wells take 1–3 days to drill, depending on depth and rock conditions. Shallow wells in soft soil can be completed in a few hours. Deep wells through solid rock may take 3–5 days. After drilling, allow 1–2 additional days for pump installation, plumbing connections, and water testing. The entire process from drilling to usable water typically takes 1–2 weeks including permit processing, drilling, and equipment installation.

Yes, most states and counties require a well drilling permit costing $50–$500. Permits ensure the well meets minimum construction standards, setback requirements (distance from septic systems, property lines), and depth/casing specifications. Your well driller typically handles the permit application. Some areas also require a water use permit for wells exceeding certain gallons-per-day limits. Check with your county health department for local requirements.

Pump type depends on well depth: shallow well jet pumps ($300–$800) work for wells under 25 ft, deep well jet pumps ($400–$1,200) for 25–110 ft, and submersible pumps ($500–$2,000) for 25–400+ ft. Submersible pumps are the most reliable and efficient — they push water up from inside the well. Flow rate should match household needs: 2–5 GPM for 1–2 people, 6–12 GPM for 3–5 people. A 1/2–1 HP submersible pump handles most homes.

A properly constructed water well lasts 30–50 years or more. The well casing (steel or PVC) lasts 20–40 years. Submersible pumps last 8–15 years on average. Pressure tanks last 10–15 years. Annual maintenance includes water testing ($50–$200), visual inspection of wellhead, and checking pressure tank. Rehabilitation (cleaning and reconditioning) can extend well life when flow decreases. Common problems: reduced flow, sediment, bacteria contamination, and pump failure.

Well water can be safe to drink but must be tested regularly since it is not treated by a municipal system. Test for bacteria (coliform, E. coli), nitrates, pH, and hardness at minimum — costs $100–$300 for a comprehensive panel. Test annually and after any flooding or nearby construction. Common well water issues: hard water (mineral deposits), iron/manganese (staining), hydrogen sulfide (rotten egg smell), and bacteria. Treatment systems ($500–$5,000) can address most issues.

Well water has higher upfront costs ($3,000–$15,000 to drill) but zero monthly water bills. City water has no drilling cost but averages $50–$100/month ($600–$1,200/year). Over 20 years, well water saves $9,000–$24,000 in water bills minus $2,000–$5,000 in maintenance (pump replacement, testing). Break-even point is typically 5–10 years. Well water offers independence from municipal supply and rate increases but requires owner maintenance.