Collecting Rainwater: What’s the Cost of a Cistern? [2026 Data]

Cost Factors

The cost of your cistern will depend on the size, type, and materials used.

Cistern Type

Installing an underground cistern will often run you more than $5,000, due to the advanced equipment and labor needed. An above-ground cistern is much easier to install and will be less costly, with the typical price ranging from $1,500 to $4,500, depending on the size.

Cistern Size

The size of the cistern you install also has a large effect on the price. Cisterns under 200 gallons will range from $120 to $600, while cisterns above 5,000 gallons will range from $3,000 to $21,000. 

Cistern Materials

The price is also affected by the materials used for the cistern. Cisterns are typically made of polyethylene, fiberglass, steel, or concrete. Polyethylene and fiberglass are the most cost-effective, while the more costly choices are concrete or steel.

Cistern System Complexity

More complex systems, such as a direct-pumped device, come with filtration devices, UV bulbs for cleaning, and electric pumps that channel water where it needs to go.

More complex systems may require installing pipes, new gutter downspouts, or a new gutter system altogether. Gutter installation costs $1,030 on average.

This can adjust costs on the front end and add additional maintenance fees later on. For example, replacing the UV bulb—which you should do every year—costs $250 per year.

Labor 

Depending on the type of system you buy, labor costs may be expensive. Hiring a professional to hook up your device could cost up to $230, but additional tasks, like having your gutters cleaned ($160), having a gutter repaired ($180 to $530), or laying down new concrete ($4 per square foot) can up the price.

Filtration Systems

Higher-end cisterns often come with filtration systems, which cost about $740 per year to maintain, including new bulbs and filters. Opting for a basic model can save you lots of money here, as you’ll only need to worry about cleaning your unit annually.

What Are Other Types of Rainwater Collection Systems?

The two basic types of rainwater collection systems are barrels and cisterns. They differ based on size as well as where they can be stored.

Cisterns are typically much larger than rain barrels, ranging from 1,000 to 6,000 gallons in capacity. They can be installed above or below ground, and require more advanced installation techniques. Cisterns can collect water that helps support the needs of a larger household while also keeping down city water bills. 

Rain barrels often range from 50 to 90 gallons in capacity. They’re generally above ground and stationed against the home. Rain barrels are best for smaller water storage needs. 

Rainwater Collection System Cost by Budget

The cost of each system depends on the size and materials used. Rain barrels range from free to $2,160, while cisterns range from $150 to $21,000. 

While cisterns cost more, they provide additional benefits like: 

• Significantly more storage 

• Pressurized distribution of water

Here’s a breakdown of the four price ranges you can expect when shopping for your next rainwater collection system, whether it be a rain barrel or a cistern. 

Under $500

For under $500, homeowners have several options for fresh rainwater collection. Barrels and cisterns up to 150 pounds are both available in this price range, with a plastic model for each available for around $120.

In some cases, you may be able to get a simple rainwater barrel for free. Some local water departments have programs available where qualified homeowners can receive a free rain collection kit for being a resident.

$501 to $2,500

Larger rain barrels (up to 5,000 gallons) are available in this price range. 

Some brands sell smaller cisterns (up to 2,000 gallons) for just under $2,300. You can opt for a more basic barrel over a cistern with less capacity to save money here but note that it won’t have pressurized distribution for your water. 

$2,500 to $12,000

For under $12,000, homeowners can choose from several above-ground barrels and cisterns. You may even be able to get two or three smaller barrels to increase holding capacity.

In this price range, you can also spring for more complex installation methods. For example, you may opt to hook your cistern tanks up to gutter downspouts or even hook them up to your lawn irrigation system.

For a singular tank installation, pouring new concrete for an in-ground cistern may be possible if you shop around for a deal.

$12,000 or More

High-end underground cisterns start around $12,000 and may go up to $22,000 with labor costs and additional features. At this range, you’re likely setting up an off-grid water system with filtration capabilities that will be a large portion of your water use in the home. These devices function similarly to well water.

Drilling a new well costs $15 to $60 per square foot, so that may be something to consider based on your needs and budget.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro to Install a Cistern

Installing a small cistern can be much different than installing a large off-grid cistern system. Depending on the type and size you need, you can install some cisterns on your own. With the right tools and knowledge, you can take on the job of installing an above-ground cistern yourself. 

Be sure to check local guidelines around rainwater collection systems before you begin. Some states set limits on how much rainwater you can collect. In Colorado, it’s actually illegal for most homeowners to harvest their own rainwater.

However, if you feel hesitant about adding your own cistern to your property, call a local well-pump contractor near you to help. They’ll be able to complete the installation, help you choose the right tank, and ensure everything is working properly.

If you’re going with an underground cistern, it will require complex equipment and advanced techniques and should almost always be done by a professional.

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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