How Much Does a Fire Pit Cost in 2025?
Installing a fire pit costs $850 on average
Installing an outdoor fire pit costs an average of $850, ranging between $200 and $3,000.
Important factors affecting pricing include fuel type, fire pit size, labor expenses, and whether you choose a prefab kit or go with a custom build.
Retrofitting an existing patio to integrate a fire pit costs up to $5,000, while building a new patio with a built-in fire pit averages $6,750.
Additional features like seating, lighting, and drainage systems can add to your overall cost.
Consult a professional to determine the most suitable sizes and materials for a safe and inviting fire pit installation that will serve your family for years.
This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
There's nothing quite like gathering around a fire pit on a cool evening, enjoying the warmth and ambiance it brings to your outdoor space. Installing an outdoor fire pit costs between $200 and $3,000, with most homeowners paying an average of $850. Important factors affecting the price include fuel type, the size of the fire pit, labor expenses, and whether you opt for a prefab kit or go with a custom build.
Fire Pit Cost Factors
Fire pits range from budget-friendly to premium costs depending on your chosen building materials, configuration, fuel type, and other variables.
Fuel Type
Your choice of fuel type influences the available fire pit models and the final cost. Charcoal, propane, wood-burning, electric, and natural gas each have specific advantages and price points.
For example, you might love the rustic ambiance of a wood-burning fire pit, but keep in mind that smoke, local regulations, and upkeep may outweigh the benefits. On the other hand, gas fire pits are more expensive because they require more involved installation, but they offer minimal mess, emissions, and overall upkeep.
| Fuel Type | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Charcoal | $250–$350 |
| Propane | $300–$950 |
| Wood | $300–$1,000 |
| Electric | $350–$1,500 |
| Natural gas | $400–$3,000 |
Built-In vs. Portable
Choosing between built-in and portable units impacts the style, functionality, and cost of your fire pit. Ranging from $75 to $500, portable fire pits are versatile, easy to use, and made from affordable ceramic or metal materials.
In-Ground
In-ground fire pits average between $1,000 and $3,000, with some models reaching $5,000 or more. Dug into the ground and often lined with brick or other materials, in-ground fire pits offer you a polished and permanent look customized to your landscaping or patio design.
Above-Ground
Above-ground fire pits, which cost between $200 and $1,500, are a middle ground between portable and in-ground options. Although they're technically built-in and not meant to move, they sit above ground level.
Size
Fire pit sizes range from 20 to 60 inches and beyond, but most fire pits come in standard sizes between 36 and 48 inches.
| Diameter (Inches) | Total Cost Range |
|---|---|
| 36 | $200–$900 |
| 40 | $165–$1,300 |
| 44 | $200–$1,600 |
| 48 | $250–$2,000 |
Prefab vs. Customization
Prefab fire pit kits, which range from $200 to $3,000, are more affordable than customized builds. With average costs between $1,500 and $7,000, customized built-in fire pits can be twice as expensive.
If you're willing to invest more upfront, a customized build allows you to design your installation to suit your specific aesthetics, functionality, and preferences. It may offer a better return on investment in increased personal and home value.
If your budget is better suited to a prefab kit, you’ll still find a variety of shapes and finishes to choose from. Most affordable prefab kits come in round or hexagonal shapes that easily accommodate several people while evenly distributing heat. Square and rectangular fire pits are more expensive and often feature decorative or premium elements to suit spaces with more intentional aesthetic choices.
Labor
Hiring a local fire pit installation contractor averages $400 to $500, equating to under a day of work. If you hire a handyperson, you'll pay $60 to $125 per hour. Landscapers and brick installers have similar hourly rates and charge additional fees for consultation and design. These services are especially valuable for customized builds, particularly if your contractor specializes in fire pit installation.
Some installations are complex and cost more due to additional labor hours or hiring other professionals. Electricians charge between $50 and $100 per hour to wire an electric fire pit, plus materials. Running a natural gas line costs $15 to $25 per linear foot.
Permits
Local regulations require you to obtain a permit for certain fire pit installations, which range from $20 to $500 each. Building permit fees for an outdoor structure cost $20 to $500, with higher costs reflecting fire pit installations that require building a deck or patio. Electrical and plumbing permits cost up to $500 each.
Preparation
You'll need to install your fire pit on a level area that's at least 15 feet away from any flammable structures or objects. Leveling a yard costs $1 to $2 per square foot. Removing trees costs an average of $750, while removing stumps costs $180 to $560.
Patio Installation
Installing a fire pit above or integrated with a patio adds significantly to your total expense. Building a patio costs an average of $3,960. If you're adding a built-in fire pit, retrofitting an existing patio can cost up to $5,000, while building a new patio with a built-in fire pit averages $6,750. Regardless of the fire pit type, allow room in your budget for seating, lighting, drainage systems, and other accessories.
Additional Features
You might consider adding certain features to enhance the appearance or functionality of your fire pit, but keep in mind that they come at an added expense.
| Accessory | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Fire pit cover | $25–$30 |
| Safety screen | $75–$300 |
| Fire grate | $50–$280 |
| Grill grate | $75–$150 |
| Lava rocks | $20–$50 per bag |
| Fire glass | $20–$100 per 10-lb. bag |
| Fire pit ring | $50–$250 |
| Artificial logs | $20–$2,000 |
Fire Pit Cost by Material
Material costs for fire pits range from $400 to $500. Your fire pit will include an inner wall, an outer wall, and functional or decorative elements. The inner wall must be fireproof, and the outer wall should be heat-resistant. Most fire pits use stone, metal, concrete, brick, or a combination of these materials.
| Material | Average Cost Range (36-inch) |
|---|---|
| Concrete | $200–$1,000 |
| Stainless steel or metal | $250–$1,200 |
| Brick | $300–$2,200 |
| Stone | $350–$3,000 |
Concrete
Averaging $200 to $1,000, concrete is a popular choice for homeowners due to its budget-friendly pricing, weather resistance, and durability. Low-end concrete prioritizes function and doesn’t usually include decorative elements, but high-end concrete fire pits may feature split-face, coloring, or other styles.
Stainless Steel
A standard stainless steel fire pit costs between $250 and $1,200. Portable fire pits made from stainless steel offer durability, weather resistance, versatility, and a range of styles. They require minimal upkeep and pair well with different fuel types. Expect higher costs for customized options, such as steel bowls. Other metals, including copper and cast iron, are also appropriate for fire pits.
Brick
Expect to pay between $300 and $2,200 for a brick fire pit, which is made from specialized thermal-resistant firebricks. Besides complementing brick homes or landscaping details, brick fire pits slowly absorb and radiate heat even after the fire dies down. Firebricks are only essential for the inner wall—the outer wall can be made from standard or decorative brick pavers.
Stone
Stone fire pits have the highest costs, ranging from $350 to $3,000. Like natural materials in most projects, stones are less available and considered a more premium choice than other options.
Stones come in various shapes and types, but most stone fire pits are made from granite, basalt, quartzite, soapstone, or other metamorphic or igneous stones because their non-permeable structures don’t trap moisture. Other rock types have soft structures and air pockets that may cause the rocks to explode when exposed to fire.
Fire Pit Repairs vs. Replacement
Your fire pit requires occasional repairs to maintain visual appeal, performance, and safety. Over time, you need to replace grates, stones, or other components. Small repairs cost as little as $30.
Extensive rust, cracks, warping, or other deterioration may compromise safety and performance. Older or deteriorated fire pits may also lack modern safety elements, clash with your landscaping or patio, heat inefficiently, or simply don’t meet your needs.
Replacement may be more cost-effective than patching a fire pit nearing the end of its lifespan, and it allows for an aesthetically appealing upgrade.
Does Installing a Fire Pit Increase Home Value?
Installing a fire pit enhances your property by providing you with an extra outdoor gathering space, encouraging you to spend time outdoors even during colder parts of the year. Fire pits add overall ambiance and design appeal.
While not as significant as major home remodeling, the benefits of outdoor fireplaces and fire pits can increase your home's value. Surveys show high enjoyment and over 50% cost recovery. Certain attributes, such as minimal upkeep, low emissions, and high-quality materials, may increase your fire pit's curb appeal factor.
Budgeting for a Fire Pit
To maximize the value of your investment, streamline your costs with these budgeting tips:
Get multiple estimates from contractors to compare their rates, warranties, and other details.
Consider your fuel costs. Natural gas and electric may have lower operating costs than wood, even if the upfront cost is higher.
Research and compare materials and kits from different retailers to find the best options for you.
Look for seasonal promotions or discounts to save on your purchase.
Inquire about packages that include added patio upgrades or fire pit accessories.
Choose prefab kits that suit your preferences and budget rather than customizing a build.
How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data
No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
With proper maintenance and occasional component replacement, an outdoor fire pit lasts up to 15 years. Made from durable stainless steel, stone, or other materials, fire pits are designed to withstand outdoor elements and intense heat. Covering your fire pit during harsh weather and cleaning it periodically may help extend its lifespan.
Fire pit maintenance involves regular cleaning and a complete inspection of each component to ensure safe operation. Maintaining your fire pit means removing all ashes and debris, repairing rust and cracks immediately, and checking gas and electrical connections with care. For stone fire pits, scheduled maintenance includes repairing any chips or imperfections to guarantee consistent performance and safety throughout every use.
Installing a fire pit directly on grass is unsafe because it compromises both the pit’s performance and your lawn’s integrity. You must install your fire pit on a level surface with a non-flammable barrier, such as a protective mat or stone base. This approach ensures that burning embers remain contained and fire hazards are minimized. A professional contractor will advise on the best placement strategy to protect nearby vegetation and structures.
The ideal size of your fire pit is determined by your desired seating capacity and available outdoor space. A well-proportioned fire pit provides ample seating and efficient heat distribution. A fire pit should be between 36 and 44 inches in diameter, while installations can extend up to 72 inches for extensive gatherings. This dimension ensures balanced functionality and an imposing outdoor aesthetic.
The minimum safe distance for installing a fire pit is a critical safety measure. You must maintain a distance of 10 to 15 feet from any structure, vegetation, or other flammable materials. This clearance prevents sparks and burning embers from igniting nearby objects, ensuring the safety of your property. Always refer to local building codes and professional advice for precise installation guidelines.
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