How Much Does It Cost to Build a Pond? [2025 Data]

This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by an Angi Editor in accordance with our AI policy.

Most homeowners spend between $1,224 and $5,673 to build a backyard pond, with a national average of $3,398. Costs vary by pond size, type, and features, with small ponds starting at $300 and large, custom installations exceeding $11,000. Expect to pay $10 to $35 per square foot, depending on complexity.

Building a pond can transform your outdoor space and add value, but understanding the factors that impact pricing and what to expect from start to finish is crucial. Labor rates for pond installation range from $50 to $150 per hour, depending on your location and project demands.

Pond Cost Breakdown

Creating a pond is an investment in your property’s beauty and enjoyment. The cost of building a pond varies widely depending on several factors. The average cost to build a pond falls between $3,000 and $15,000, while some elaborate installations can cost more than $20,000. Smaller, simple ponds may be built for as little as $1,200. The national average for a standard backyard pond is $8,000. 

Costs are influenced by the pond’s size, type, chosen materials, labor, and any features like waterfalls, lighting, or elaborate landscaping. Professional installation costs more than a DIY approach but brings added peace of mind and durability.

Individual line-item costs can add up quickly. The most common expenses include excavation and site prep, pond liner (rubber, plastic, or concrete), pumps and filtration, rocks and edging, water features, lighting, plants and fish, and labor. Each of these elements can be tailored to fit your budget and vision.

Cost by Pond Type

Different pond types come with their own costs and maintenance needs:

• A garden pond is designed for aesthetics and uses simple filtration. 

• Koi ponds require specialized systems to support fish. 

• Wildlife ponds favor natural habitats over heavy filtration. 

• Swimming ponds are engineered for human use, requiring advanced filtration and safety features. 

• Farm ponds are functional, often larger, and may need less decorative work but more land prep.

Cost by Size of Pond

The size of your pond directly affects the cost of building it. Larger ponds require more excavation, bigger liners, stronger pumps, and extensive landscaping. 

Cost is often calculated per square foot or per gallon—small backyard ponds may cost $10 to $20 per square foot, while larger or more complex ponds can reach $30 to $35 per square foot.

Expanding or reducing pond size will impact material and labor costs. Increasing the size later often means redoing excavation, replacing liners, and upgrading pumps, which can be more expensive than building to your desired dimensions from the start. Planning for future expansion is wise if you anticipate needing a larger pond.

Pond Pro Costs

Professional installation brings expertise and efficiency, but labor costs are a significant part of the total cost to build a pond. Pros handle everything from design and excavation to plumbing, liner installation, and landscaping. 

Labor rates for pond builders and landscapers range from $50 to $150 per hour, with total labor costs for a standard project running $2,000 to $8,000 or more, depending on complexity and local rates.

Electrical work is often required for pumps, lighting, and outdoor outlets. Electricians charge $70 to $150 per hour, with total costs from $500 to $3,000 depending on the complexity and safety requirements. All electrical work should meet local code for outdoor and wet environments to keep your home and family safe.

Hiring a landscape designer can be a smart investment for larger or visually complex ponds. Designers may charge by the hour ($75 to $200), by flat rate ($500 to $3,000), or as a percentage of the total project. Professional landscape design costs more but ensures your pond fits seamlessly into your landscape, functions well, and looks stunning for years to come.

Additional Pros to Consider Hiring

Some projects may require additional specialists, especially for larger or more complex ponds:

• General contractor: $50–$150 per hour or 10–20% of project cost

• Excavation specialist: $1,000–$5,000 per project

• Permitting consultant: $500–$1,500 per project

• Aquatic biologist (for large or eco-sensitive ponds): $100–$200 per hour

• Maintenance service provider: $50–$150 per visit

These professionals can handle complex site work, permits, environmental concerns, and ongoing maintenance, ensuring your pond is built right and remains healthy.

Pond Cost by Location

Where you live has a major impact on the cost of building a pond. Urban areas or regions with a high cost of living tend to have higher labor rates and material prices. Rural locations may offer lower costs, but access to specialized pros or materials can be limited. Local soil conditions, climate, and water availability also affect pricing. For example, rocky or clay-heavy soil increases excavation costs, while areas with water restrictions may require additional permits or systems.

Local regulations and permitting can also add to the total cost. Some cities require environmental reviews, setbacks from property lines, or special water use permits, especially for larger or permanent ponds. Permit fees may range from $100 to $2,000, depending on your area and the pond’s size.

Additional Cost Factors

There are several less-obvious expenses to consider when budgeting for the cost of building a pond. Planning for these helps avoid surprises and keeps your project on track:

• Taxes, insurance, and warranties can all affect the bottom line. 

• Sales tax applies to most materials and labor. 

• You may need to update your homeowner’s insurance to cover your new water feature, which could increase premiums. 

• Some pond components, such as pumps and liners, come with warranties—adding peace of mind but sometimes at an extra cost.

• Accessories and special features quickly increase project costs. Waterfalls, fountains, streams, bridges, and islands all require extra materials and labor. 

• Underwater lighting, automatic feeders, and remote controls add convenience and visual appeal. 

• Decorative rocks, statues, and custom edging make the pond stand out but come with additional price tags.

• Including ADA features or accessible design, like ramps, walkways, and safety railings, will increase your investment but ensure everyone can enjoy the pond safely. Meeting accessibility standards may require more extensive site work and specialized materials.

Repairs and post-construction cleanup are also important. Fixing liner leaks can cost $200 to $1,000, pump replacements run $150 to $500, and erosion control or landscaping repairs can add hundreds more. Budgeting for initial debris removal, water treatments, and ongoing maintenance is essential for a healthy, attractive pond.

Demolition and Prep

If your site has existing landscaping or structures, demolition and prep work will be needed. Site clearing, grading, and soil testing fees can add $500 to $3,000 to your project. Disposal of debris and old materials may require dumpster rental or hauling fees. Proper prep work ensures the pond sits on a stable base and prevents problems like settling or leaks later on.

Permits

Most areas require permits for pond construction. You may need zoning approval, water use permits, or environmental reviews. Responsibility for obtaining permits can fall on you or your contractor, so clarify this up front. Permit fees range from $100 to $2,000. Failing to secure the right permits can result in fines, project delays, or having to remove the pond entirely.

DIY Pond Building vs. Hiring a Pro

Building a pond yourself can save on labor but requires careful planning and the right skills. DIYers pay for materials, equipment rental (such as excavators or compactors), and any specialty tools. Savings can be significant—up to 40%—but you’ll invest your own time and energy. 

DIY pond kits start at $1,200 for small projects, but more elaborate designs require pro-grade materials and expertise to avoid leaks or electrical issues. Expect to spend several weekends on a DIY build, and consider pond safety. Improper grading or electrical work can be hazardous.

Comparing costs, a small DIY pond might total $1,200 to $4,000, while hiring a pro for the same project often ranges from $3,000 to $8,000. However, hidden costs, such as correcting mistakes or renting additional equipment, can add up. It’s best to hire a professional for large, deep, or complex ponds or projects involving electrical and plumbing work.

Common DIY mistakes include improper liner installation (leading to leaks), undersized pumps, or poor grading that causes runoff and erosion. Repairing a botched liner can cost $500 to $1,000, and fixing electrical mistakes can be even higher. Planning, research, and realistic assessment of your skills will help you decide whether to DIY or call in a local pond pro.

Pond Remodel vs. Renovate

There’s a difference between remodeling and renovating a pond. Renovating means restoring or updating an existing pond—such as replacing the liner, upgrading the pump, or adding plants. Remodeling involves major changes, such as expanding the pond, altering its shape, or repurposing it for a new use (for example, converting a garden pond into a koi or swimming pond).

Renovation is more affordable, with costs from $500 to $5,000 depending on the extent of updates. Full remodels can run $5,000 to $20,000 or more, especially if you’re enlarging the pond or adding custom features. Renovations extend the lifespan of your pond and help fix issues, while a remodel dramatically transforms the space and can increase property value.

When deciding, consider the extent of damage or wear, your desired upgrades, and the impact on your home’s value and enjoyment. If your pond has structural issues or no longer meets your needs, a remodel is likely the best route.

Tips to Reduce Pond Building Costs

You can control how much it costs to build a pond with smart planning and strategic decisions:

• Choose a smaller or simpler pond design to keep material and labor costs down.

• Use cost-effective materials by comparing liner types, edging, and pump options.

• DIY select tasks, such as excavation, planting, or landscaping, to save on labor.

• Plan for future upgrades by installing basic infrastructure now and adding features later.

• Get multiple quotes from pros to compare bids and negotiate.

• Schedule construction during off-peak seasons to achieve potential savings on labor and faster project completion.

Does Building a Pond Increase Home Value?

A well-designed pond can increase your home’s value by boosting curb appeal and making your landscape more attractive to buyers. Outdoor water features are highly desirable for many homeowners, especially those seeking a relaxing or visually interesting yard. While the return on investment varies, a thoughtfully built pond often offers better ROI than some other landscaping projects.

ROI depends on design and construction quality, maintenance requirements, and regional preferences. A low-maintenance, visually appealing pond will appeal to more buyers and hold its value longer, especially in areas where outdoor living spaces are prized.

Beyond value, a pond adds enjoyment, tranquility, and a focal point to your property. Consider safety and accessibility to ensure everyone can enjoy the space safely, while also keeping maintenance needs in mind for long-term satisfaction.

How Angi Gets Its Cost Data

Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We extensively research project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We rely on 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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