Collecting Rainwater: What’s the Cost of a Cistern? [2025 Data]
Water cisterns cost between $3,000 and $5,000 or an average of $4,000, depending on materials, size, and placement.
The cost of a cistern can range between $120 and $21,000, with the average cost being $4,000. For homeowners who live in wet climates or aspire to off-grid living, setting up a cistern can be a cost-effective and environment-friendly idea. One inch of rainfall can yield as much as six gallons of water that you can use to cook with, clean, and run appliances. From simple to complex, cistern systems can vary greatly—especially in cost. In this cost guide, you’ll learn more about the types of cisterns and other rainwater collection systems that may fit your goals and budget.
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.
| Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Above-ground cistern | $1,500–$4,500 |
| Underground cistern | $5,000+ |
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.
| Material (5,000-Gallon Tank) | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Polyethylene | $3,000 |
| Fiberglass | $3,500 |
| Steel | $4,500 |
| Concrete | $4,500 |
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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Frequently Asked Questions
It depends on your budget and goals. If you’re simply looking to reduce your water bill and harvest natural water for things like the lawn, a rain barrel will suffice. For giving your whole home natural water, a cistern (whether a high-end or larger basic model that’s more affordable), might be the better option.
In most states, yes. In some states like Colorado, you need state approval to set up a rainwater collection system, or you can collect only a certain number of gallons of water.
Outside of the Centennial state, homeowners can collect up to 110 gallons of rainwater in every other state. Beyond that, you may need to research your state’s specific guidelines.
