How Much Does It Cost to Build a Pond?

Highlights

• The cost to add a pond ranges from $1,220 to $5,552, with homeowners across the country paying an average of $3,346.
• Some of the biggest factors that influence the final cost include the size and location of the pond, the liner material, the pump and filter types, and the cost of labor.
• Building a pond comes with numerous benefits, including water conservation, carbon sequestration, local wildlife support, fewer mowing requirements, and energy efficiency.
• A handy homeowner may have the skills to build a pond on their own, but many homeowners prefer to leave the work to a professional to ensure the project is completed thoroughly.

Water, which is scientifically proven to help people feel calmer, provides an alluring and tranquil addition to a property. Ponds are a wonderful water feature to add to a yard so residents and their visitors can enjoy the sights and sound of nature. There are numerous types of ponds to choose from depending on goals, space, and budget. It can be a small above-ground pond made from an upcycled barrel to add personality to a garden. For those who like fish, a soothing koi pond or fishing pond is a good choice. It is even possible to build a large artificial lake or natural swimming pond to enjoy swimming and other recreation right at home.

With so many different types of ponds, installation details vary as well. On the one hand, installing a small pond with a kit could be a quick weekend DIY project that costs under $1,000. On the other hand, hiring a company to construct a large, elaborate pond with landscaping could take weeks and cost tens of thousands of dollars. According to Angi and HomeAdvisor, the typical cost range to build a pond falls between $1,220 and $5,552, with a national average cost of $3,346. This guide will explore the various factors that contribute to the total cost of building a pond, the types of backyard ponds, and tips on saving money and hiring a professional.

Factors in Calculating the Cost to Build a Pond

There are many factors at play to determine the cost of a stunning backyard pond that can bring endless hours of joy and relaxation to homeowners. Pond size, capacity, type, and location all impact the cost of the project. Plus, there are additional fees like for the liner, pump, filter, and labor that will also drive up the budget needed to create the dream pond. It is important that homeowners consider all these factors when embarking on a new pond construction project.

Pond Size

Size is the primary factor that drives the price of a pond project. While size is not the only consideration, it is significant, since it affects the amount and type of materials needed for lining, landscaping, and stocking the pond. It also impacts the time, labor, and equipment required to excavate the land and construct the pond. The larger the pond, the deeper the land that must be dug out and the more dirt that must be removed and hauled out.

The average cost to build a pond is $40 to $60 per square foot for small to medium ponds. Ironically, smaller ponds tend to cost more per square foot to make. This is because it is like buying in bulk: The more square feet the pond has, the lower the cost per square foot. The average 1-acre pond cost to build an artificial lake, farm pond, or fish pond is $1,400 to $4,800 per acre.

The following prices provide a good range of what to expect based on the size of the pond.

Pond Capacity

The installer or landscaper might quote the project based on the capacity or volume of the pond, which is calculated using the width, length, and depth of the pond. This is helpful information, because knowing the volume also gives a sense of the number of gallons needed to fill a pond of that size; the pump capacity to recirculate the water properly; the power consumption needed; and any maintenance costs pertaining to pumps, power usage, and the liner. The following table shows the average cost of a pond per capacity size in gallons.

Pond Type

The type of pond a homeowner decides to install can greatly influence how much the project will cost, even if the pond types being considered are the same size. Fishing ponds, for example, will cost more than simple backyard garden ponds even if they are the same size. Fishing ponds will also need to be stocked, which adds to the overall cost. The various types of ponds and their average costs are discussed in a section below.

Liner Material

The liner is a key component of an artificial pond to ensure the water does not leak out. Without it, the pond could not exist. That is why it is important for a homeowner to choose the best pond liner possible. This can be tricky, however, since there are so many options available at varying price points.

Flexible liners are made of thin materials that can be cut down to fit the exact size and shape of the pond and even add features like extra pumps and filters. They are inexpensive but require more work to carefully plan out how they will be cut prior to installation. The most common flexible liners include high-density polyethylene (HDPE) at $0.30 to $0.70 per square foot, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) at $0.50 to $0.75 per square foot, reinforced polyethylene (RPE) at $0.45 to $1.65 per square foot, and ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber at $0.65 to $2.30 per square foot.

Another option is to use a preformed drop-in pond liner made from a firmer material that is already shaped and ready to go. That means the size and shape of the pond are dictated by the liner itself. Although these are pricier, they are easier to install and require less thought and preparation work. An HDPE (high-density polyethylene) liner is the most affordable at $3.40 to $7.40 per square foot, while a premium fiberglass preformed pond liner costs $10 to $80 per square foot.

Finally, active liners, such as bentonite or concrete, can also be used. Bentonite clay ($1.05 to $2.50 per square foot) works well in large fish ponds to keep them looking natural, while concrete ($64 to $114 per square foot) is preferred for swimming pools and raised koi fish ponds.

Soil Type

The type of soil and terrain on a property can impact the price of constructing a pond. Since steep terrain and rugged land make digging harder, both result in higher prices. Loose soil can also lead to additional cost, since slopes need to be reinforced after excavation, which tends to be a complicated process.

Pump and Filter

A pond can be even more mesmerizing if the water trickles, bubbles, or sprays. Adding one of the best pond pumps helps recirculate the water and can create these effects. A pump and filter have a practical purpose as well: to oxygenate the plants so they can flourish, help fish live more comfortably, and remove algae and debris to keep the water clean. Pump prices range from $50 to $500, while filters cost from $150 to $1,300.Prices for both pumps and filters vary depending on their size and type. Pumps are sized to the number of gallons, so a 6-foot by 8-foot pond needs a pump sized at about 500 GPH (number of gallons circulated per hour) or larger. There are submersible pumps that sit below the waterline and nonsubmersible ones that are more energy-efficient and recommended for ponds with more than 1,000 gallons of water. It is best to pair the filter with the appropriate type of pump and make sure the size matches the amount of water in the pond. An external pump works with an external filter, and a submersible filter is used with an underwater pump.

Excavation

Excavation is one of the firsts steps in building a backyard oasis and involves clearing the land and digging a pond. It costs $120 to $265 per hour, on average, to clear the land of boulders, rocks, stumps, bushes, and trees that are in the way. Homeowners may want to make sure to keep any boulders and rocks in good shape to use later for landscaping.Of course, the more that needs to be cleared, the higher the cost. Trees are especially difficult to remove, since the roots have to be dug out completely. If there are a lot of trees in the area, then it can cost up to $6,000 to clear the land for a backyard 1-acre pond.

To dig out the pond, the soil needs to be removed from the base and then hauled away. Small ponds can be dug out by hand with a shovel, which costs about $2.50 to $7.50 a square foot for the labor. Larger ponds require a pro with special equipment to excavate the land properly and efficiently. Homeowners can expect to pay between $60 and $200 per cubic yard or between $55 and $150 per hour for larger ponds. Finally, the excess dirt that was removed needs to be hauled away from the property, which adds another $105 to $175 per cubic yard of dirt to the pond construction cost. However, some homeowners save money on this step by reusing the soil to build a beach for the pond or spreading it out in other places throughout the property.

Pond Location

Choosing the best place for the pond is critical to ensure that it thrives and that unexpected costs do not arise. An ideal spot is in a flat, low-lying area with minimal vegetation, boulders, or other obstacles. Otherwise, it can get costly to clear or level the land. It is best to avoid building a pond where an accidental leak could damage a nearby structure, such as a shed or house. Also, it is important for the pond to be in a spot that gets a mixture of both sun and shade without being too close to trees, since digging near the root system can damage a tree. Finally, the pond will need electricity for features like the pump, filter, and lighting, so it needs to be close enough to the home to run the wires safely.

Labor

The labor involved in building a backyard pond includes excavating the land, installing the liner, adding equipment like a pump and filter, and working on water features. Labor rates, which can affect the cost of a pond project, can vary by location and company. More experienced companies in high demand often have higher prices than other options. The most important thing to remember is that the labor costs for a backyard pond can vary depending on the details of the specific project. Size, depth, type of pond, customizations, and other factors can shift labor rates. Professionals can charge as little as $500 for a very small pond with no landscaping to upwards of $12,000 for larger, more complex ponds. Hourly labor rates are usually $50 to $200.

Geographic Location

Where someone lives plays a role in the cost of building and maintaining a pond. The price depends on the cost of living, labor rates, and resources in a particular location. Prices are typically higher in more expensive states like California and New York but lower in more rural areas. The following table provides a sense of pond installation cost by city.

Additional Costs and Considerations

Besides the basics to building a backyard pond, there are several additional costs that can pop up. It is helpful for homeowners to be aware of these factors, such as costs involved with getting permits, stocking the pond, landscaping, and performing ongoing maintenance. There are also lots of choices to make with regard to enhancements to the pond, such as waterfalls, fountains, and lighting, that can raise the overall price of the project. By being aware of these hidden costs, homeowners can avoid sticker shock.

Permits

In most areas, permits are necessary to start a pond excavation project. A permit can cost between $150 and $485. Homeowners are advised to check with the homeowners association, municipality, or a professional pond landscaper for details about whether a permit is necessary. The factors that could determine if a permit is necessary include the size of the project, depth of the pond, existence of a natural water source being used for the pond, and any chemical treatments that are planned.

Stocking

One of the best parts of having a pond is stocking it with plants, fish, and other animals to bring life to this serene space. Pond plants not only beautify the area but also improve water quality, control algae, oxygenate the water, create a balanced ecosystem, and shelter fish from predators. There are four types of pond plants—submerged, floating, emergent, and shoreline—and they range in price from $4 to $55 per plant. Some popular choices include water lettuce, irises, cattails, water lilies, and lotuses.

Stocking the pond with fish can be challenging, since the options are endless. Each fish can cost anywhere from $0.25 for an inexpensive fish like a goldfish to as high as $25 for an expensive variety like a koi fish. Other types of common pond fish include trout, catfish, black moor, and bass. The total cost depends on the type of fish and the size and goals of the pond. For example, hundreds of fish are needed to stock a large fishing pond or lake, costing $500 to $1,000 per acre. To add animals besides fish to a pond, homeowners can plan on paying between $2.60 and $200 per animal, since there is a wide range to choose from, such as frogs, turtles, dragonflies, snails, and newts. The following table lists some of the average costs for different types of fish that are ideally suited for pond life.

Homeowners can ask their landscaper to advise them on which wildlife would be best to share a habitat with the fish in the pond.

Landscaping

On top of the fees to excavate the land and build the pond, there are landscaping costs that should be factored into the total project. Landscaping rates will vary depending on the size of the area, labor, materials, and complexity of the job. Landscape designers charge between $50 and $150 per hour or 10 percent to 20 percent of the total cost of the project. Homeowners can expect to pay anywhere from $2,000 to $15,000 for the landscaping around a pond.

Some of the landscaping features to add to the pond include plants, rockery, pond edging, and material for the bottom of the pond. Ranging from $12 to $33 per linear foot, pond edging helps define the shape and style of the pond. It can be made from river rock, pebbles, gravel, bricks, pavers, wood, or mulch. Boulders and pea gravel are common choices for covering the bottom of the pond. Pea gravel costs $10 to $50 per ton, and boulders are $100 to $385 per ton. Finally, there are many types of pond plants to choose from, with various price points in the range of $3 to $45 per plant. These include bog plants, floating aquatic plants, marginal pond plants, emergent plants, and submerged pond plants.

Customizations

A simple pond is soothing, but there are many special customizations to choose from to make it even more appealing. Adding edging around a pond costs between $1 and $15 per square foot; it costs less for concrete and more for stone. Next, all kinds of statues can be purchased for anywhere from $10 to as much as $4,200 to create a certain aesthetic.Adding a charming pond bridge runs about $85 to $1,600, depending on material, size, and design.For those living in colder climates, a heater may be necessary to keep the pond from freezing. A heater costs from $25 to $340. Underwater lighting is also an appealing feature to draw attention to a pond, with a typical cost between $100 and $400 per fixture. Finally, many people dream of having a waterfall or fountain in their yard. One can easily be incorporated into the pond design with an investment of $855 to $4,465 for a waterfall and $2,750 to $15,000 for a fountain. With so many relaxing pond waterfall ideas, homeowners will be sure to have a great time picking out their favorite.

Maintenance

Once the pond is up and running, there will be maintenance costs to consider. Expenses include cleaning, fertilizer, filters, and fish food. On average, a monthly service to clean and maintain the pond costs about $450 to $5,000 per year. The larger and more complex the pond, the higher the maintenance cost will be. Having more fish and heavy foliage around the pond can also increase the price. For homeowners who wish to take care of the pond themselves, monthly maintenance will cost $20 to $40.

Types of Ponds

Ponds come in all shapes, sizes, and types to appease any homeowner. From a simple and low-cost above-ground pond made from recycled materials to a calming koi pond to a massive natural swimming pond, there is something for everyone’s taste and budget. The following are the average costs for different types of ponds.

Above-Ground

Above-ground ponds are the perfect option when space is limited or digging in the ground is not possible. They are also at a lower price point, between $1,850 and $5,000. They can be made using a kit that includes all the components needed to build the pond. Some people get very creative and use all sorts of materials to make a small above-ground pond, such as upcycled old barrels, water tanks, bath tubs, or sinks.

Backyard Pond

One of the most common types of ponds is the backyard garden pond, since it is simple, shallow, and affordable and does not contain any fish. Most are less than 1,000 square feet in size. A decorative backyard pond with beautiful plants and stone can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $15,000. Most of the cost comes from the landscaping features, such as plants, rocks, and waterfalls. For more elaborate backyard ponds with additional features such as fountains, rock ledges, and detailed landscaping, the price can be toward the top end of the range.

Farm Pond

Farm ponds are built plainly and used for irrigation or farm animals, such as ducks, cattle, and horses. They are typically constructed with a natural clay liner and not landscaped, which keeps the cost down. The price to create a farm pond is between $2,000 and $10,000, depending on size and terrain. Most do not use filters, pumps, UV sterilizers, or waterfalls, but they might need a well as a water source.

Fishing Pond

Building a fish pond or hatchery stocked with fish is an attractive yet pricey feature. Used for fish farming, recreational fishing, or ornamental purposes, a fishing pond needs to be at least half an acre with a depth of 6 to 12 feet. Prices to build one range widely: from $10,000 to $75,000 (and everything in between). Size, depth, filters, aerators, and other equipment and features drive the price. It can be clay-lined or lined with an artificial liner, depending on its size.

Koi Pond

Koi ponds, often found at hotels and botanical gardens, are an attractive bonus to any backyard, as they create an ecosystem for colorful, playful koi fish. They are aesthetically pleasing and garner attention from visitors. The cost of koi ponds ranges from $9,000 to $13,000. They are usually 10 feet by 15 feet with a depth of 4 feet. These ponds are built with a nontoxic liner and need a pump to recirculate the water often; a filter to keep the water clean; an aeration system like a fountain, bubbler, or waterfall; a non-freeze zone in cold areas; plants; and plenty of koi fish in varying colors and sizes. Like garden ponds, koi ponds tend to be heavily landscaped.

Lake

For those who want to go a step further, building an artificial lake is an option for a large property. Typically taking up at least a ¼ acre of land, this type of water body is large enough for small watercraft and fishing. They are usually deep enough that they do not need a liner or filtration, and large enough to support a fish hatchery. They are generally used for swimming, boating, creating a habitat for wildfire prevention, and increasing property value. Prices to build an artificial lake can range widely, from as low as $3,000 to $11,000 per acre, which can total $30,000 to $50,000 depending on size, location, and landscaping, among other considerations. The cost to build a pond per acre is $3,000 to $8,200, and the cost of digging a 2-acre pond is even more.

Natural Swimming Pond

For those who love to swim, building a natural swimming pond may be an attractive addition to a backyard. People enjoy them since they appear natural without any chemicals or the maintenance that a regular pool needs. A ¼-acre swimming pond consists of two areas—the swimming area and a green zone, or regeneration zone, filled with plants and gravel that filter the water. The water between the two areas is circulated by pipes. Natural swimming ponds tend to have plush landscaping to keep them looking as natural as possible.The challenge is that they require an expensive investment: $60,000 to $80,000. That is more than a classic inground pool, which costs from $32,408 to $60,873.

Benefits of Choosing to Build a Pond

In addition to the aesthetically pleasing and relaxing atmosphere that a pond adds to a property, there are many other benefits to adding a new pond. Homeowners can feel positive about how the pond helps conserve water, sequester carbon, and support wildlife. Plus, having a pond takes up space, which reduces the amount of lawn that needs to be fertilized and mowed.

Water Conservation

Backyard ponds can play a helpful role in water conservation. Typical lawns and plants require a great deal of water throughout the year. Ponds, on the other hand, can be refilled with rainwater. Ponds also provide a self-sustaining hydration cycle to keep plants alive without having to water them. Additionally, pond water can be used to water other plants in the yard; the only tool required is a watering can. Finally, water from the roof and gutter system can be diverted to the pond instead of ending up wasted as stormwater runoff, which can contaminate the local watershed. In this case, the pond essentially serves as a natural reservoir, helping to decrease utility costs, especially in hotter, drier months.

Carbon Sequestration

With climate change top of mind, many people are looking for ways to reduce carbon emissions. One way to help out is by adding a pond to a home’s landscaping. Ponds can serve as a carbon sink, which means they capture carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. The carbon is stored in the biodiversity of both aquatic and land plants living in the pond ecosystem. By adding a pond to a property, homeowners can reduce their overall household carbon footprint.

Local Wildlife Support

Ponds also support local wildlife and are often considered ecological hotspots for diversity. Besides being a sanctuary for fish like koi and goldfish, ponds help attract wildlife to the area. Animals that enjoy making a pond their home include birds, frogs, toads, dragonflies, and beneficial insects. Tadpoles are valuable to have in the pond, since they eat algae and will keep the pond looking attractive. The edges of ponds, in particular, help boost the biodiversity of both plants and wildlife. Plus, attracting more wildlife into a backyard can be a fun and relaxing experience for homeowners who enjoy observing the activity.

Fewer Fertilizing and Mowing Requirements

One of the best parts of having a pond is that it helps reduce both fertilizing and mowing needs. Mowing and fertilizing a lawn come with their own environmental impacts, so reducing the amount required can help reduce pollution in both the air and water supply. And not only will a pond help save time and reduce pollution, it will also save homeowners money by reducing landscaping maintenance costs. In fact, the sludge collected by a pond filter can be reused as natural fertilizer for the lawn; it is filled with nutrients from fish droppings, decaying leaves, and extra fish food.

Energy Efficiency

A pond can also provide a way to cool down the air slightly in the immediate area. When the water evaporates, the pond’s surface will reduce heat. This then helps cool down the surrounding air a bit. By installing a pond near an outdoor living area, such as a deck or gazebo, residents could feel more comfortable in the refreshing air.

Building a Pond: DIY vs. Hiring a Professional 

While building a pond can certainly be completed as a DIY project, it is not as easy as it sounds. It involves the following steps: taking precise measurements of the land, renting an excavator (a license is typically required to operate one), digging the area to certain specifications, installing the liner and edging, adding special features like a waterfall, and then filling the pond. And that doesn’t even include all the maintenance and possible repairs down the road.

DIYers can expect to pay between $250 and $2,500 for a 1-day job to build a small pond, including equipment and materials. Renting an excavator costs anywhere from $150 to $1,500 per day. Liners are priced from $100 to $1,000.There are also expenses totaling around $625, on average, related to the tools needed: tape measure, backhoe (rental), shovel, level, wheelbarrow, tamper, drill, and cutter. To make the process easier, there are handy DIY pond kits available that range in price from $500 for a 4-foot by 6-foot pond up to $6,500 for a 34-foot by 34-foot model.

However, pond installation is best left to the pros because a lot can go wrong, leading to unexpected costs and damage. Some common mistakes include puncturing the liner, installing the filter and pump incorrectly, damaging the house foundation, flooding the yard from a leak, and digging into utility lines. Plus, picking out all the components, such as the types of fish and plants, requires knowledge and experience. To make sure the project is done right, it is best to hire a professional pond builder, especially for larger projects.

How to Save Money on the Cost to Build a Pond

Adding a pond to a property does not have to break the bank. Fortunately, there are many types of ponds and materials to choose from at varying price points. There are also some clever ways to save money throughout the process. With some creativity and flexibility, adding a pond to the yard using these tips and tricks can work within anyone’s budget.

• Choose a pond that is small.
• Decrease the depth of the pond.
• Build a pond with a DIY kit.
• Dig the pond yourself by hand.
• Shop around for a quality liner, such as those offered on eBay and other online venues.
• Save money on rocks by going to a stone company scrap yard.
• Reuse excavated material, such as soil and boulders, for landscaping.
• Build an inexpensive filtration system cheaply by using items from a local dollar store.
• Forgo the koi and opt for cheaper fish species.
• Seed the plants or buy small seedlings; they cost less than full-grown aquatic plants.
• Upcycle materials, such as an old barrel, water tank, bathtub, or sink, to create a small pond.

Questions to Ask About Building a Pond

Home projects can go awry, so it is important to do research beforehand to avoid any issues. Be sure to ask the contractor the following questions while considering them for the project. Getting this information up front will lessen the chance of a pond project turning into a stressful mess.

• Do you specialize in constructing ponds?
• Are you licensed and insured?
• Can I see your portfolio of work and testimonials from customers?
• How long have you been doing this work?
• Will you come out to my property to provide a cost estimate?
• What is the time frame for this project?
• What preparations are necessary prior to installation?
• What type of liner do you use?
• Do you provide guidance on what fish and plants to choose to stock the pond?
• Do you guarantee your work?

FAQs

When homeowners are deciding which type of pond to install on their property, it is important for them to ask the right questions and to understand what they will pay for their specific project. Fees will depend on size and capacity of the pond, materials used, type of pond, labor, and location, among other factors. Knowing how much it will cost on average and the negotiability of the price will reduce the risk of homeowners getting a surprise bill. For those just beginning to think about adding a pond, the following are a few questions that may come up.

Q. How long does it take to build a pond?

It usually takes about 3 to 4 days to build a pond, but the timing really depends on the size. Small ponds built using a kit or preformed tank might only take a day, while large fishing ponds could take upwards of 2 weeks to complete.

Q. How difficult is it to maintain a pond?

Ponds require ongoing maintenance after installation. The fish need to be fed, filters changed, water cleaned, and the pond fertilized. All of this adds to the overall budget. A monthly cleaning service costs anywhere from $450 to $5,000 per year, depending on the size and complexity of the pond.

Q. Do ponds add value to land?

Unfortunately, ponds do not typically increase land value, but they may add value to a home when it is placed on the market.

Q. Do small ponds attract snakes?

Yes, there are certain species of snakes that enjoy being around water like ponds, including water snakes and garter snakes. They are harmless to humans but could be confused with other types of snakes that could cause more trouble. In addition, the snakes are most threatening to the wildlife living in the pond, so it is best to keep the snakes away.

Q. Should I build a pond myself or get a professional to do it?

Although it is possible for a homeowner to build a pond as a DIY project, it is complex and best handled by a trained professional. Building a pond is an involved process that requires heavy equipment like an excavator and perfectly installed liner. To avoid mistakes that could result in the lake leaking and costing more money, hiring a pro is the way to go.

Q. Are ponds safe?

Although ponds are very soothing, they come with a risk. People can drown in any body of water 1 inch or deeper, even a small backyard pond. For those with children, it is critical to keep the area safe by building a fence, installing a net, and/or adding an alarm.

Q. What are the disadvantages of a pond?

The biggest disadvantage of having a pond on a property is that it can attract bothersome wildlife and pests like mosquitoes and snakes.

Q. What is the minimum depth for a pond?

The minimum depth for the average pond is 2 feet. At least 3 feet is recommended if the pond freezes during the winter. For a koi pond, the depth should be at least 48 to 60 inches.​

Sources: Angi, HomeAdvisor, Fixr, LawnStarter, LawnLove