Well drilling research, written for homeowners.
Independent, data-driven well-drilling cost research — not drillers’ marketing. Every figure here is sourced, dated, and free. We tell you where the numbers come from and link the originals.
Three questions, three paths.
Well research has a natural order. Pick where you are right now and we’ll point you to the right data and guides.
How we research well costs.
A cost number is only worth as much as where it came from. Here’s how we keep the figures on this page honest.
The numbers, with receipts.
Four fact-checked datasets on what a residential water well costs in 2026. Each chart names its source; full citations are at the foot of the page.
Total installed cost rises about $1,775 per 50 ft of depth in average ground with 4-inch PVC casing. Deeper hard-rock wells or 6-inch steel casing run far higher (up to $24,000+ at 400 ft) — a typical baseline, not a ceiling.1 Source: HomeAdvisor — cost-by-depth table, 2025–2026.
Harder ground costs more per foot because drilling slows dramatically in rock. These are complete-installed-system rates; drilling-only is roughly 55% of them — and they match our own cost estimator.2,3,5 Source: Epp Well Solutions, Angi & SC Well Service (cross-checked).
Drilling and casing are the bulk of a new well; the pump, pressure tank, electrical hookup, permit and water test fill out the total.1,2 Source: HomeAdvisor & Epp Well Solutions, 2026.
PVC casing suits most residential wells; bedrock, very deep, or seismic-zone wells need steel, which costs many times more per foot.1 Source: HomeAdvisor, 2025–2026.
Want a number for your own well? Run the figures in our Cost Estimator → or read the full Cost Guide →
The research behind the data.
The guides and tools the figures above are built on — every one free, no account required.
Every number, sourced.
The figures and framing on this page trace to these publications, accessed and verified 2026. We link the originals so you can check them yourself.
Research done? Find your driller.
You’ve seen the numbers. Now find a licensed driller near you — or, if you drill wells, get your business in front of homeowners who’ve done their homework.