Find What Well Drilling Really Costs

Well drilling is priced primarily on a per-foot basis. Your total cost equals the depth drilled multiplied by the per-foot rate, plus fixed costs for the pump system, casing, electrical, and permits. Understanding this model helps you evaluate quotes and anticipate your actual project cost.

Well Depth — The #1 Cost Driver

Depth determines the majority of your total cost because you pay for every foot drilled. A 100-foot well at $40/foot costs $4,000 in drilling alone, while a 300-foot well at the same rate costs $12,000. Your well depth depends on the local water table and aquifer — factors that vary not just by state but by specific property location. Check our state cost guides for typical well depths in your area.

Geology — What's Underground Matters

The type of rock and soil beneath your property directly affects drilling speed and cost. Soft formations like sand, clay, and loose gravel are the cheapest to drill through ($15–$35/ft). Sedimentary rock like sandstone and limestone falls in the middle range ($30–$55/ft). Hard crystalline rock like granite, gneiss, and basalt is the most expensive ($45–$65+/ft) because it requires specialized air-hammer drilling equipment and wears through drill bits faster.

Pump System

Every well needs a pump to bring water to the surface. Shallow wells (under 25 feet) can use a jet pump ($200–$800), but most residential wells use a submersible pump installed inside the well casing ($500–$2,000). Deeper wells require more powerful (and expensive) pumps, plus longer runs of electrical wire and drop pipe. The pressure tank ($500–$2,000) stores water and maintains consistent pressure in your home.

Well Casing

Casing is the pipe that lines the well bore to prevent collapse and protect against contamination. PVC casing ($6–$11/ft) is standard for most residential wells in unconsolidated formations. Steel casing ($30–$130/ft) is required for bedrock wells and in areas with difficult geology. Most wells use a combination of steel casing through surface soil and PVC or open-hole construction through bedrock.

Permits and Testing

Most states require a well drilling permit ($50–$500) and a water quality test before the well can be used ($150–$500 for a comprehensive panel). Some states also require a licensed driller, specific setback distances from septic systems, and post-drilling inspection. These costs are relatively small compared to drilling but are mandatory in most jurisdictions.