True Cost Guide Plumbing Install a Rainwater Collection System

How Much Does a Rainwater Recycling System Cost in 2024?

Typical Range:

$130 - $17,000

Cost data is based on research by HomeAdvisor.

Updated August 30, 2024

Written by HomeAdvisor.

Highlights

Homeowners usually pay about $3,000 for a rainwater harvesting system installation.
Wet systems require excavation and usually cost between $6,000 and $17,000 to install.
Dry systems generally have simple installation requirements and may cost as little as $130.
Polyethylene tanks are the most cost-effective but can’t always withstand underground use.
Other project costs include materials, maintenance, gutter systems, and add-ons.

Most homeowners pay $3,000 for water catchment system installation. A single rain barrel might only cost $130, while an extensive rainwater harvesting system can cost up to $17,000. Rainwater tank prices largely come down to size, system type, materials, and add-ons.

Average Rainwater Harvesting System Cost

Average Cost	$3,000
High Cost	$17,000
Low Cost	$130

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Rainwater Collection System Cost Factors

Along with the basic system type, factors like wet vs. dry systems, permits, guttering, and added extras influence the cost to install a rainwater collection system. Also, consider the ongoing cleaning and maintenance costs.

Dry vs. Wet System

A dry system refers to a rain barrel or roof collection system in which water flows down the pipes and into the storage tanks. The pipes remain empty between rainfalls, hence the term "dry system." These are relatively simple and affordable setups with easy-to-install above-ground storage tanks.

Wet systems are underground systems where the pipes stay full. In these systems, water travels through pipes and collects in the storage tank as more water enters, forcing the excess to spill over into the tank. Wet systems cost more to install due to their more complex setup and excavation requirements.

System Type	Low Cost	High Cost
Dry	$130	$5,300
Wet	$6,000	$17,000

Downspouts and Gutters

Downspouts and gutters are a vital part of any rooftop water collection system. Downspouts typically cost between $300 and $600, while gutters cost $4 to $30 per linear foot, with an average total cost of $1,900 for a pro to install gutters. Your chosen materials and the length of the gutter system impact the total cost.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Rainwater harvesting system maintenance typically costs $740 per year, plus repairs. A simple rain barrel is the easiest and most cost-effective to maintain. A simple cleaning a few times a year does the job. Water filtration systems and underground cisterns have the highest upkeep costs.

Other costs for a rainwater harvesting system over its lifetime include:

UV bulb and filter replacements: $250 per year
Gutter cleaning: $170 per cleaning
Pump replacement: $1,800 every 20 years

Add-Ons and Enhancements

You can keep your rainwater harvesting system simple, particularly if you plan to use it only in the garden. Several installations can improve the system by enhancing water cleanliness and efficiency, but they’ll add complexity to your setup.

Add-ons for rainwater harvesting systems include:

System Component	Price Range (Materials Only)	Average Price (Materials Only)
Gutter Mesh	$0.80–$1.25 per linear foot	$1.02 per linear foot
Gutter Outlets	$5–$10	$7.50
Downspout Screen	$10–$50	$30
Tank Screen	$10–$50	$30
First Flush Diverter	$20–$60	$40
Tank Gauge	$30–$50	$40
Top-Up System	$100–$200	$150
Pump	$150–$300	$225

Above-Ground vs. Below-Ground Storage

Above-ground storage is more affordable than below-ground storage, with above-ground systems starting at $1,000 with installation. On the other end of the scale, below-ground systems can run up to $17,000.

Above-ground systems are fast and easy to install and adapt to various terrains and locations. This non-invasive installation works with your existing roof, gutters, and downspouts.

In-ground systems require a more complex and invasive installation process. To prevent contamination, the tank must be at least 10 feet from a sealed sewer line and 50 feet from an unsealed line. Therefore, this system isn't necessarily suitable for all properties.

In-ground systems require excavation, increasing overall labor costs depending on the area’s size, soil type, and other factors. Below-ground storage tanks also require higher-quality materials to withstand underground use, which increases the cost.

Rainwater Collection System Costs by Method

Rooftop rainwater harvesting and surface runoff harvesting are the two primary methods of collecting rainwater. While both methods collect and store rainwater, their processes vary considerably.

Harvesting Method	Cost Range (Labor Included)	Average Cost (Labor Included)
Rooftop Harvesting	$1,000–$5,000	$3,000
Surface Runoff Harvesting	$8,000–$15,000	$11,500

Rooftop

Rooftop rainwater harvesting costs an average of $3,000, ranging between $1,000 and $5,000. This method has more affordable pricing and a simpler setup than surface runoff harvesting. The roof becomes the catchment device, directing the rainwater into the guttering, where it flows into a storage tank for later use.

Surface Runoff

Surface runoff harvesting is significantly more expensive than a roof catchment system, ranging between $8,000 and $17,000 and averaging around $11,500. These costs stem from the significantly longer timeline and labor required to excavate the area for the tank before installation.

Surface runoff systems have grates installed beneath the ground, where excess rainwater passes through into pipes and the storage tank. This system helps control erosion from surface runoff and is economical for watering garden plants or topping up a pond in dry weather. To minimize the risk of cross-contamination, the system must be at least 10 feet from a closed sewer line and 50 feet from an unsealed sewer line.

Rainwater System Cost Breakdown

All types of rainwater systems require the same basic components to function—a conveyance system, a collection method, a filtration system, and storage.

System Component	Price Range (Materials Only)	Average Price (Materials Only)
Filtration System	$75–$200	$140
Conveyance System	$100–$1,500	$800
Water Storage	$130–$6,000	$3,060
Collection Area	$500–$9,000	$4,750

Filtration System

A rainwater filtration system typically costs between $1,200 and $3,100 without labor. Find a plumber in your area to learn more about the rates for this project.

Conveyance System

A conveyance system for your rainwater collection can cost between $100 and $1,500, depending on the complexity. The number of pipes and fittings required largely determines the system’s cost.

Water Storage

A simple rain barrel costs around $140, while a multi-tank underground system may cost up to $6,000. Water storage container prices vary depending on the amount of water you’ll store and the type of storage.

Collection Area

Average costs for the collection area range from $500 to $9,000, depending on the system type and size. The collection area for a rooftop collection system consists of the gutters and the roof. The collection area for a surface runoff system includes whatever section of ground you designate as where water should flow towards and into your tank.

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Rain Barrel Cost

Installing a 100-gallon rain barrel costs anywhere from $120 to $1,600, depending on the material and labor. Plastic barrels are the most cost-effective but may lack durability. If you plan to connect your rain barrel to an irrigation system, expect to pay more for labor.

Rain Barrel Installation

Hiring a handyperson costs from $70 to $250 for rain barrel installation, not including the barrel. Barrel installation may be as simple as finding the best setup spot or may involve more complex gutter work. Some people even set up sprinkler systems with their rain barrel, likewise adding to installation costs.

Average prices for additional exterior work to accommodate the rain barrel or extra features include:

Gutter installation costs: $1,170
Gutter repair costs: $194 to $636
Sprinkler system installation prices: $2,700

Rain Barrel Materials

Rain barrel prices vary by material and size, between $0.50 and $4.00 per gallon. Most homeowners pay around $140 for a 40- to 60-gallon barrel.

Material	Size Range (Gallons)	Price Range
Recycled Plastic	50–200	$130
Brass	90–200	$500–$1,700
Polyethylene	50–200	$200–$500
Oak	50–60	$170–$300

Cistern Cost

The price to install a cistern spans from $150 to $21,000. Prices on the low end reflect above-ground cisterns that are 50 gallons or less, but most range from 1,000 to 6,000 gallons.

Prices vary because cisterns can go above or below ground. Above-ground cistern prices are usually the same as rain barrel prices, between $0.50 and $4.00 per gallon. An above-ground, 1,000-gallon steel cistern costs $2,010.

Installing a 150- to 200-gallon cistern above ground can cost as little as $660. An underground, 5,500-gallon concrete cistern with UV sterilization costs about $21,000. Underground cisterns generally have significantly higher material costs.

Cistern Installation

Installation costs for a cistern range from $12,000 to $12,000. Above-ground cisterns cost between $70 and $250. Underground cisterns dramatically increase installation price due to the following component costs:

Excavating costs: $50–$200 per cu. yd.
Water filtration system costs: $1,000–$4,200
Cost to regrade a lawn: $15 per cu yd.
Plumber rates: $45–$200 per hour
Piping costs and pumps: $200–$500

Water Cistern System

Prices for a water cistern system fall between $5,000 and $12,000. A full water cistern system usually includes routing water back to the house so it’s safe for human use.

Water Tank Prices by Material

Water tank prices range from $0.50 to $4.00 per gallon, but materials can dramatically influence total costs. The water tank’s material offers certain characteristics or advantages.

Cistern Material (5,000-gallon tank)	Cost Range	Average Cost
Concrete	$3,000–$6,000	$4,500
Steel	$3,000–$6,000	$4,500
Fiberglass	$2,000–$5,000	$3,500
Polyethylene	$2,000–$4,000	$3,000

Concrete

The average price of a 5,000-gallon concrete tank ranges between $3,000 and $6,000. An underground, 5,500-gallon concrete cistern might cost between $17,000 and $21,000 to install, including excavation backfilling, grading, and water filtration. If you’re looking for a different size, remember that the cost to pour concrete is about $4 per cubic foot, not including labor.

Steel

The average price of a 5,000-gallon steel tank is between $3,000 and $6,000. A small tank, about 80 gallons, may cost around $300. For a larger tank around 3,750 gallons, expect to pay around $17,000. Steel water tanks range in cost depending on their size and storage capacity. Steel withstands underground use more easily than polyethylene but may be vulnerable to rust and corrosion.

Fiberglass

The average price of a 5,000-gallon fiberglass tank is between $2,000 and $5,000, but they can range from $300 to $30,000, depending on storage capacity and size. Fiberglass tanks have versatile applications and are highly resistant to corrosion.

Polyethylene

The average price of a 5,000-gallon polyethylene tank is between $2,000 and $4,000. The cost of polyethylene water storage tanks ranges from around $825 to $21,000, depending on the size and water storage capacity of the specific tank. Polyethylene water storage tanks are easy to install, low maintenance, and recyclable. While non-corrosive and durable, they’re not always designed for below-ground use.

Rainwater Laws

Rainwater collection isn’t illegal, but some areas face certain restrictions or regulations. States typically enforce restrictions if the area experiences drought or other issues with water access.

Thirteen states allow rainwater collection with some restrictions, 17 states allow it without restrictions, and 20 encourage or incentivize it. Refer to your local government resources to learn about your state’s rainwater laws, regulations, and potential permit requirements.

Budgeting for a Rainwater Recycling System

A new rainwater recycling system can be a significant investment, but these strategies may help keep your budget in check:

Get multiple quotes: Request quotes from multiple contractors to find the best deals or value for your investment.
Research government incentives: Some projects may qualify for government rebates or incentive programs that offset installation costs by up to 50%.
Bundle services: Contractors may offer reduced fees for bundled projects like rainwater collection and irrigation systems.
Simplify: Opt for a system that meets your needs without unnecessary features or complexity.

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.

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FAQs

How long does a rainwater recycling system last?

Rainwater recycling systems generally last 15 to 30 years, depending on the materials, maintenance, environment, and other factors. For example, high-quality tanks made from fiberglass or concrete may last longer than other options. Cisterns last up to 40 years, while rain barrels are more vulnerable to UV rays and weather damage and don’t usually last longer than 15 years.

How do contractors install a cistern system?

Installing a cistern can be as easy as placing a barrel or tank underneath a downspout or as complex as putting one underground. For underground cisterns, a team excavates land, places and routes the cistern for irrigation and/or household purposes, and fills the land back in once it’s set up. If you’re using the water throughout the home, a professional will hook it up to your home’s plumbing.

How does a cistern work?

A cistern collects rainwater from either gutters and downspouts or rainwater seeping into the ground. You can repurpose that water in a number of ways, such as for a sprinkler system, watering your garden, or even for filtering into potable water.

How long can you store rainwater?

The length of time you can store rainwater depends on the condition and purpose of the water, as well as the collection system. For watering your garden or lawn, water is fine to use for a long time as long as algae doesn’t develop. For water drinking purposes, water can last indefinitely as long as it’s properly treated and in a container that doesn’t break down.

How much rainwater can I collect?

For every inch of rain that falls over 1,000 square feet of collection surface, you can collect between 550 and 630 gallons of rainwater. If you have a 1,000-square-foot roof and get half an inch of rain directed to your harvesting system, you’ll collect 225 gallons of water.

Is harvesting water cost-effective?

Rainwater harvesting can be cost-effective. While installation requires an upfront investment, your system allows you to access free water on an ongoing basis. You can use collected rainwater for landscaping or regular lawn watering. With the right equipment, you can also use it for cooking, bathing, and drinking.