The average drain pipe replacement costs $696, but it can range between $225 and $1,169, depending on factors like type and location.
The average cost to replace a drain pipe is $696, though most homeowners spend between $225 and $1,169. Costs depend on factors like the pipe’s material and location, as well as the need for any additional services, such as drywall repair. Use this guide to learn all about how much it costs to replace drain pipes so you can properly budget for this project.
Several factors affect the cost of replacing a drain pipe, including the pipe’s type and location. Whether or not you hire a pro to replace your pipe will also affect your final cost.
| Drain Pipe Type | Price Per Linear Foot | Price Per Linear Foot After Plumber Markup | Average Cost for 30 Feet |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cast Iron | $10–$20 | $12.50–$30 | $375–$900 |
| Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) | $0.50–$5 | $0.60–$7.50 | $19–$225 |
| Copper | $2–$10 | $2.50–$15 | $75–$450 |
| Polypropylene (PP) | $1–$10 | $1.25–$15 | $37.50–$450 |
| Galvanized | $3–$8 | $3.75–$12 | $112.50–$360 |
Cast iron pipes typically cost between $12.50 and $30 per linear foot after the plumber's markup. These pipes are common in homes built prior to the 1970s. When properly maintained, they can last between 50 and 100 years thanks to their resistance to damage and high pressure. However, they can rust and corrode over time, reducing water quality and leading to leaks. They’re also heavier than many other pipe types, so they require more time and specialized tools for installation.
PVC pipes are lightweight and relatively affordable at $0.60 to $7.50 per linear foot after markup. With a lifespan between 25 and 40 years, they don’t last as long as many other pipe types, but they’re highly resistant to corrosion and chemical damage. However, they’re not very resistant to extreme temperatures or prolonged UV exposure, so they’re best suited for cold water systems.
Copper pipes usually last for 50 to 80 years and cost between $2.50 and $15 per linear foot after markup. These pipes are pricier than alternatives, but they’re also naturally resistant to bacteria and never release harmful chemicals into the water. They can also withstand extreme hot and cold, unlike PVC pipes, and they’re resistant to UV degradation.
PP pipes usually last for around 50 years and range from $1 to $10 per linear foot after markup. They’re increasingly popular for their lightweight design and relatively easy installation process. They’re also resistant to corrosion and scale buildup, and unlike PVC pipes, they can be recycled, making them a more eco-friendly alternative.
Galvanized pipes cost between $3.75 and $12 per linear foot after the markup. Common among older homes, galvanized pipes last for 20 to 50 years, and they have a zinc coating that helps to protect them from rust and corrosion. However, over time, the zinc layer erodes, which can lead to rust buildup inside the pipes and degrade your water quality.
Unless you have professional plumbing experience under your belt, you should call a local plumber to replace your drain pipes. Drain pipe replacements require specialized knowledge, tools, and skills to execute properly. Improper installation can lead to leaks, water damage, and other problems that can be incredibly costly to repair. The cost to hire a licensed plumber usually ranges from $45 to $200 per hour.
The location of your drain pipes also impacts the cost to replace them, primarily because some places are easier and faster to access than others. For example, replacing a basic kitchen sink drain pipe might cost as little as $150, while digging under your home’s foundation can cost you $4,000 or more.
Kitchen drain pipes usually cost between $100 and $500 to replace. If you just need to repair or replace your kitchen sink drain, then you’ll likely pay at the lower end of that spectrum. But if your issue is due to problems with your dishwasher or a refrigerator with an ice maker, it can be more complicated and expensive to fix since they often have more complex connections and mechanisms.
Bathroom drain repairs and replacements can range anywhere from $100 for a simple sink drain repair to $10,500 for projects that require a new bathtub or shower installation. Bathtub and shower repairs tend to cost more than sink repairs since a plumber often has to damage the shower or tub to access the pipes, then repair it.
Basement drain pipe projects range from $725 to $7,500, but the average cost to replace a basement drain is around $3,250. Prices can be much higher if your plumber needs to access the pipes under a concrete slab, which might require additional foundation repairs and costs.
The type of problem you have also affects your costs. For instance, if you just have one leaky pipe, it might only cost you $150 to fix, while replacing your main water line can cost upwards of $5,000.
Leaky Pipe Repair Cost: $150–$850
Burst Pipe Repair Cost: $150–$5,000
Garbage Disposal Repair Cost: $200–$550
Toilet Drain Repair Cost: $100–$350
Main Water Line Replacement Cost: $650–$3,000
Sewer Line Replacement Cost: $1,300–$5,000
While you can save money on labor and material markups by replacing a drain pipe yourself, it’s not recommended unless you have professional plumbing experience. Drain pipe replacements require specialized skills, tools, and expertise to execute properly; otherwise, you risk creating more costly and potentially dangerous damage.
When replacing a drain pipe, you may want or need to add additional services, such as drywall repairs or mold remediation services. These extra services come with additional costs beyond those outlined in this guide.
Drywall repair costs: If your plumber needs to access pipes behind the wall, you may need to pay for repairs to your drywall afterward. These repairs cost between $300 and $1,000, depending on the project’s complexity.
Trenching and excavation costs: Excavation involves digging trenches to access and replace the pipes. It’s often needed for underground pipe replacements, particularly main water and sewer lines. Excavation costs range from $1,550 to $6,000.
Water softener installation costs: Installing a water softener can help to reduce mineral buildup in your new drain pipes, prolonging their lifespan and improving your water quality. Water softener installations cost anywhere from $200 to $6,000 depending on type, labor, and capacity, but most homeowners pay around $1,500.
Emergency plumbing costs: Sometimes you need a pipe replacement due to an emergency, like burst pipes. Emergency plumbing usually costs between 1.5 and 3 times more than standard plumbing costs to account for the urgency and the fact that your pro may need to arrive after standard business hours.
Mold remediation costs: If you need your drain pipe replaced due to a leak or it burst, then you may have water damage which can lead to mold. Mold remediation costs between $1,125 and $3,400, on average.
Restoration and cleanup costs: In addition to mold, leaks can cause other damage, like rot and stains. Water damage restoration usually costs between $1,350 and $6,100, depending on the extent of the damage.
Drain pipe replacements can get pricey, but there are a few things you can do to potentially save money on this project, including:
Getting quotes from multiple plumbers to find the best price
Clearing minor clogs and completing other simple repairs yourself
Scheduling regular plumbing maintenance to catch problems before they become too costly
Choosing inexpensive piping materials, like PVC
Avoiding emergency services whenever possible
Leveraging warranty services if your plumbing is still under warranty
Installing drain screens and regularly cleaning your drains to prevent clogs and reduce the need for professional services
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’ve surveyed thousands of real Angi customers about their project 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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Signs of a broken drain pipe include slow-draining sinks, tubs, or toilets; foul odors coming from the drain; damp or wet spots on your walls, floors, or ceilings; and gurgling sounds coming from the drain. In severe cases, you may also notice a sudden drop in your water pressure.
Drain pipes carry wastewater from sinks, toilets, showers, and other fixtures to the main sewer line. They’re typically located within the walls and floors and beneath a home’s foundation. Meanwhile, sewer pipes transport collected wastewater to a septic tank or a municipal sewer system.
Start by inspecting visible pipes for any signs of corrosion, moisture, or discoloration, which can indicate a leak. You should also listen for sounds like hissing or dripping, which may point you toward a leak. Moisture meters and infrared cameras can also help you identify areas of increased moisture around your home, signifying a leak.
