How Much is a Septic Tank? Septic System Installation Costs

You finally built your dream home and most of the construction is complete, but now it’s time to install a new septic system. Initially you might wonder, “how much does a septic tank cost?” thinking that the tank itself is the main thing you need to consider.

However, septic systems require more than just a septic tank, and so we’ve put together this helpful guide outlining the ins and outs of new septic system installation costs. Using this tool, you should be able to budget more accurately as you plan for a tried-and-true wastewater solution for your home.

If you already have a septic system and need to replace or upgrade it, please refer to our guide: How Much is a Septic Tank? Septic System Upgrade & Replacement Costs

Key Points About Septic Tank Installation Costs

• The price of a new septic tank generally depends on the durability of its materials, and septic tanks are usually made of concrete, plastic, or fiberglass.
• The cost for a new septic system installation includes more than the cost of the tank itself, it also includes factors like property size and layout, leach field requirements, site conditions, and the type of septic system being installed.
• When budgeting for new septic system installation, you should also account for additional costs including land surveys, permits, design and engineering fees, percolation testing, shipping charges, material, and labor costs.
• Installing a new septic system is a necessary, but often costly, part of homeownership, however there are several ways to help save money during the process.

Septic System Installation Costs

To determine how much it’ll cost to install a new septic system, you’ll need to consider the septic tank material, the property size and layout, the site conditions, and the type of septic system you’re having installed.

Septic System Costs: Septic Tank Material

When installing a new septic tank, one of the key variables that can affect the price is the material of the tank. Each material comes at a different price point, and has its own pros and cons. Let’s take a look at the three most common septic tank materials.

1. Concrete Septic Tank

Concrete septic tanks are one of the most common types of tanks found on properties, and are the most durable if cared for properly. Concrete is usually reliable and affordable, and is generally considered the lowest maintenance. However, concrete can sometimes be prone to cracking, which is something homeowners should bear in mind.

Cost: On average, concrete septic tanks can cost between $700-$2,500.

2. Plastic Septic Tank

Plastic septic tanks are the most popular types of tanks found on properties. They are the least expensive option, however, the plastic isn’t as durable and can more easily break, or shift in the ground, if not taken care of properly.

Cost: Typically, you can expect to pay between $500-$2,000 for a plastic septic tank.

3. Fiberglass Septic Tank

Fiberglass septic tanks are extremely durable and lightweight, making them easy to transport and install. Fiberglass material is less likely to crack than concrete, and can sustain structural shifts below ground, which minimizes the risk of tank damage.

However, the lighter-weight material of fiberglass septic tanks means they require more precision during installation — they are more susceptible to float to the surface and break through the ground, unlike septic tanks made of heavier materials, requiring the tank to be properly anchored.

Cost: The cost for fiberglass septic tanks is usually between $1,000-$3,500.

Note: Steel septic tanks are generally not recommended. While older homes may have steel tanks buried in their yards, most septic tank professionals will advise against installing steel septic tanks because they are prone to rusting, which can be a significant safety hazard to your property.

If you have more questions about septic tanks and septic systems, we recommend reviewing our guide: How Does a Septic Tank Work?

Septic System Costs: Property Size & Layout

In addition to considering the material of the septic tank, it is important to consider the property size and layout. In general, the more rooms that are in the house, the larger the septic tank that is needed.

Estimated septic tank costs based on home size:

• 2 Bedroom Home: 750-1000 gallon septic tank which cost between $700-$1,200.
• 3-4 Bedroom Home: 1000-gallon septic tank which cost between $900-$1,500.
• 5-6 Bedroom Home: 1500-gallon septic tank which cost between $1,300-$2,500.

In some homes, two septic tanks may even be needed based on the volume of septage and the septage treatment level requirements in your area.

Note: Septic tank size is generally determined by the number of bedrooms in a home at the time of the installation, and does not account for the number of people living there, or any additions to the home. If you’ve increased your household size, or remodeled your home to add bedrooms, contact your septic system professional to ensure your septic tank can handle the increased volume.

Septic System Costs: Leach Field Requirements

The leach field, or drain field, is a very important part of any septic system, so it’s important to budget for their installation.

The cost to install a leach field is determined by the size of the home’s septic tank, and the bigger the septic tank, the more expensive the drain field.

Typical leach field costs based on septic tank size:

• 750-gallon septic tank will typically require a 250-500 sq. ft. leach field and may cost between $3,000-$8,000 to install.

• 1000-gallon septic tank will typically require a 600 sq. ft. leach field and may cost approximately $10,000 to install.
• 1500-gallon septic tank will typically require a 750-1000 sq. ft. leach field and can cost between $12,000-$14,000 to install.

Note: Local regulations often require minimum septic tank sizes based on the number of rooms in a home. To ensure compliance, we recommend confirming the minimum tank sizes required in your area prior to installation.

For more information about leach fields, we suggest reading our guide: What is a Leach Field?

Septic System Costs: Site Conditions

The site conditions of your property and home are also an important aspect to consider when installing a new septic system.

Sometimes, properties do not have the optimal site conditions for septic system installation. When this occurs, the septic system engineer will need to make adjustments to the design of the system to ensure it functions properly.

Septic Systems & High Water Tables

High water tables happen when the level of the groundwater is close to, or even above, the surface level of the soil. Typically, wastewater flows out of the home and into a septic tank, where the solid waste (sludge) settles at the bottom, and the liquid waste (effluent), flows out of the tank and into the leach field for further treatment and disposal.

However, in areas with a high water table, the effluent may not be able to percolate into the soil effectively due to the close proximity of groundwater. When this occurs, contaminated water may be able to enter your community’s water table.

Some septic system solutions for high water tables include:

• Elevated Leach Field: One option is raising the drain field above the level of the water table. By creating an elevated area or using specialized components, like pressure distribution systems or sand filters, the effluent can be dispersed over a larger area, allowing it to be absorbed into the soil properly. The costs for elevated leach fields depend on a wide range of factors, but can cost anywhere between $5,000-$20,000.
• Mound System: These systems are specifically designed for areas with high water tables, and involve constructing an artificial mound of soil above ground level to create the proper environment for wastewater to percolate effectively. Mound leach fields may cost anywhere between $10,000-$20,000 to install.
• Alternative Systems: In some instances, the high water table or soil may not be suitable for traditional septic systems, meaning alternative options should be considered. Other systems include aerobic treatment units (ATUs), which feature additional components that reduce the amount of biological material that enters the leach field. Aerobic leach fields may cost anywhere between $7,000-$10,000 to install.

Fortunately, homes with high water tables are not uncommon, and a trained and licensed septic system engineer will be able to design a safe and reliable system based on the site and your specific needs.

Note: If a well is planned for the property, or already exists, it should be part of the planning process when designing a septic system. Usually, local regulations require minimum distances between the well and a septic tank to avoid contamination. It is always recommended to review the requirements in your area before finalizing the plans for your septic system.

Discover more about alternative septic systems: What are the Different Types of Septic Systems?

Septic Systems & Slopes

Not all homes are built on level ground, and slopes can significantly impact the functionality of a traditional septic system. As a result, septic systems have to be designed and installed very carefully to account for the natural slope of the property.

More specifically, your septic system engineer has to be mindful of the slope of the sewer line, the placement of the septic tank itself, and of the soil depth. Septic systems installed on a slope, particularly a steep slope, will generally cost more than a standard installation because of the complexity of the design and additional excavation required.

Factors affecting the cost of septic systems installed on a slope:

• Slope Severity: Steeper slopes will require more extensive engineering and excavation, increasing the cost. The septic system engineer will need to plan for the appropriate sewer line slope to maintain the recommended wastewater flow, and may even need to include a slope break (a distinct point in the system where the gradient or steepness of the slope abruptly changes) to appropriately drop the pipe elevation. In instances where the septic tank or leach field has to be installed above the home, some systems may also require a pump chamber and pump to move the wastewater uphill.
• Soil Conditions: Not all land has the required soil depth for a septic system since the bottom of the excavation must be level. Excavation in areas with steep slopes often demands very specific construction techniques, requiring expert planning and safety protocols.
• Groundwater Level: In some cases, the steep slope may not give the soil enough time to treat the wastewater before it reaches the groundwater. This is another instance where a mound system may be required, adding to the septic system installation cost.

When installing a new septic system on a slope, the average cost for installation can range from $10,000-$20,000 depending on the engineering and construction needs on your property.

Septic System Costs: Type of Septic System

Not all septic systems are the same, and different systems require different levels of testing, prep, materials, and installation. The two most common septic systems are anaerobic and aerobic. Let’s look at the different costs associated with each type of system.

Anaerobic Septic System

Anaerobic septic systems are the most common type of septic systems. These systems do not require oxygen to function properly, and rely on anaerobic bacteria to naturally break down waste and disperse wastewater into the soil.

Anaerobic systems are generally cheaper to install, but they are less efficient and require a larger leach field.

Cost: On average, an anaerobic septic system can cost anywhere between $3,000-$8,000.

Aerobic Septic System

Aerobic septic systems use oxygen to activate aerobic bacteria in the septic tank to break down waste and disperse wastewater into the soil.

Aerobic systems are more expensive to install, but they’re more efficient and can work well for smaller properties. However, unlike anaerobic systems, they do require additional power and equipment to run.

Cost: On average, an aerobic septic system can cost anywhere between $10,000-$20,000.

For more information about the different types of septic systems, we recommend reviewing our guide: Aerobic vs. Anaerobic Septic Systems: What’s the Difference?

Additional Septic System Installation Costs to Consider

While one of the biggest septic system costs is the septic tank itself, there are numerous other factors that homeowners need to include in their installation budget.

Many people research the size and cost of the septic tank, but are then surprised by the final cost of the septic system installation because they didn’t factor in everything that’s needed.

Permits

Prior to installing a new septic system, many local governments require permits. Homeowners can obtain a permit from their state and local governments.

Cost: The average cost of a land permit for septic systems is between $400-$2,000, depending on your location.

Land Surveys

In addition to getting a permit to install the septic system, you will need to hire a licensed professional to conduct a land survey. This is important because it helps ensure that the proposed site for your septic system is actually on your property.

Cost: Depending on your property size and layout, homeowners should budget between $300-$1,000 for a land survey.

Design & Engineering

To install a septic system, you will often need to hire an engineer to develop plans for your septic system installation. This is important because a well-designed system is far more likely to run properly long term, while a poorly designed system can create costly issues over time.

Cost: Design and engineering fees can typically cost between $500-$3,000, providing peace of mind that your system is designed for years of safe use.

Percolation Testing

Percolation testing is critical prior to septic system installation because it can determine what style of septic system and supporting equipment are required for your property. These tests, often called perc tests, analyze the drainage capabilities and soil quality in the area of the proposed septic system.

Cost: Perc testing may cost anywhere between $500-$1,800, depending on the level of testing required based on the soil, location, and other site conditions.

Shipping

An additional cost that many homeowners forget to include in their septic system budget is the cost to ship the septic tank to your home.

Shipping septic tanks is not as simple as you might expect, because transporting them often requires specific licenses and permits. Additionally, while some septic tanks can be transported on a regular flatbed trailer, certain tanks may require a more specialized trailer.

Cost: Shipping a standard, residential septic tank generally ranges between $500-$2,000, but factors like the tank size, distance transported, local regulations, and the chosen shipping company can significantly impact the final cost. Always compare quotes before finalizing septic tank shipping logistics.

Material

Every septic tank is structured differently to fit the individual needs of your family and your home. Beyond the cost of the septic tank and piping, mound septic systems and sand filter septic systems also require sand and gravel to install.

Cost: In certain septic systems, the sand required may cost $15-$20 per cubic yard, and the gravel may cost $15-$75 per yard.

Labor

Lastly, installing a new septic system is a big project that requires a lot of work to complete. When you hire a licensed, insured, and bonded plumber, you may pay anywhere between $45-$200 per hour in labor.

When septic system professionals install a septic system, you’re typically paying for the time it takes to excavate the property, prep the site, build the drain field, acquire permits, and install the system.

Cost: While labor costs vary based on your location, septic system professionals will usually need between $1,500-$4,000 to install a new septic system.

Important Note: Prior to your septic system installation, make sure to ask your septic system contractor to provide a line-by-line written estimate. This information can help you to fully understand the scope of the project, and avoid any surprise bills during the process.

How to Save Money on Septic System Installation

After reviewing the full breakdown of costs above, it is easy to see that installing a new septic tank and septic tank system can get very expensive. However, with a little bit of extra effort, there are a few things you can do to save money on your septic system installation.

1. Always Get Multiple Quotes

Whenever you are having work done on your home, it is always best to get multiple quotes for the work you need to have completed. First and foremost, choose reputable, licensed, and qualified companies who are insured, and then make sure to get at least three quotes.

Once you have received a list of quotes from reliable companies, you can compare and contrast each offer and select the most cost-effective option.

Buyer Beware: It’s important to mention that the cheapest option may not always be the best choice, so make sure to review the quote in detail, and select the company that offers the optimal balance of expertise and value. Ultimately, hiring the right company can save you thousands of dollars in costly repairs down the line, so make sure to choose wisely.

Learn more: How to Choose the Best Septic System Provider

2. Plan for Off-Season

Another cost-saving technique is planning for septic tank installation during the times of year when demand is lower. During off-peak times, companies may offer more flexible scheduling and discounted rates.

Buyer Beware: While off-peak times may help you save money during septic system installation, there are still times during the year where it can be disastrous. For example, if the system is installed when the ground is overly saturated during winter, the septic tank may sink during those months. This can break the plumbing in and out of the tank, and may require a full re-installation. Always follow the advice of septic tank professionals when it comes to scheduling the safest time for septic system installation, and you’ll avoid unnecessary problems, and costs, long term.

3. Programs & Incentives

With a little research, homeowners can often find local or state rebates, government-funded loan programs, grant programs, and tax incentives that may help offset, or even cover, septic system installation costs.

By taking the time to get multiple quotes, plan your installation, and review programs and incentives, you may be able to reduce the cost of your septic installation by hundreds or even thousands of dollars — these aren’t steps you want to skip!

New Septic Tank Installation Costs: Final Thoughts

While installing a new septic system may seem like a daunting task, understanding all the costs involved can help you budget and plan for the project with full transparency.

Utilizing the expertise of septic system professionals and engineers can help ensure that your new installation goes as smoothly as possible, and that your septic system will function properly for many years.

If you have questions about your septic system, don’t worry, you’re not alone. The expert Customer Support Team at GoodHaven is ready to help answer your septic system questions and help you get the answers you need today.