The average cost of a sprinkler system ranges from $0.90 to $1.70 per square foot of yard. This cost estimate includes installation and materials for an in-ground system, but does not include permits or inspection.
That means that installing a sprinkler system in a 5,000-square-foot yard will cost you approximately $4,500 to $8,500. Above-ground sprinklers can cost as little as $15, but they’re not appropriate for watering an entire yard.
These prices are based on sprinkler installation costs in big metros and smaller cities across the U.S. However, your sprinkler system installation may cost differently depending on the type of sprinklers, the number of zones, and if you install add-ons.
Cost by Location
The cost of a sprinkler system installation can change depending on the area because of differing costs of living and labor fees.
The table below shows what you can expect to pay to install an above-ground irrigation system in different regions of the U.S. These prices don’t include permit and inspection costs:
| City | Cost per square foot (including labor cost + materials) |
| Northeast U.S. | |
| New York, NY | $1.11 – $2.13 |
| Pawtucket, RI | $0.87 – $1.65 |
| Southeast U.S. | |
| Atlanta, GA | $0.79 – $1.48 |
| Dothan, AL | $0.76 – $1.42 |
| Midwest U.S. | |
| Chicago, IL | $0.99 – $1.89 |
| South Bend, IN | $0.91 – $1.73 |
| Northwest U.S. | |
| Seattle, WA | $1.02 – $1.95 |
| Corvallis OR | $0.84 – $1.60 |
| Southwest U.S. | |
| San Diego, CA | $0.93 – $1.77 |
| Roswell, NM | $0.79 – $1.48 |
You can get an idea of how much it costs to install a sprinkler system in your area by checking the price in a similar-sized city.
For the most accurate prices, it’s still best to consult an irrigation pro near you. LawnStarter can connect you with one in a few clicks.
Cost by Sprinkler System Type
One of the most important cost factors is the type of sprinkler system you want to install. Some are more labor-intensive to install, so a pro will charge more to install them.
- In-ground sprinkler systems cost $0.90 to $1.70 per square foot to install, which means you’ll spend between $4,500 and $8,500 to install it in a 5,000-square-foot lawn. It can cost a bit more if it’s an automatic system.
- Above-ground sprinklers are DIY, hose-attached heads you move around as needed. There is no trenching or valves involved; you simply clip them to a garden hose and place them where you need coverage. A basic hose-end sprinkler head can cost around $15, while a kit with three heads runs up to $80.
- Drip irrigation is a system that delivers water slowly right to plant roots. Typical drip irrigation installation costs $1,191 to $2,918, including materials and labor.
If you don’t know what type of sprinkler system you want yet, check out these articles:
Cost by Number of Zones
Another important cost factor in a lawn sprinkler system installation is the number of irrigation zones you need. One zone costs $585 to $1,335.
An average-sized lawn needs at least five irrigation zones. Additional zones cost an average of $750 to install, but prices may vary. You may need more irrigation zones if you have lots of plants with different irrigation needs.
| Number of Zones | Average Cost to Install (Materials and Labor) |
| 1 | $585 – $1,335 |
| 2 | $1,165 – $2,665 |
| 3 | $1,875 – $5,000 |
| 4 | $2,335 – $5,665 |
| 5 | $3,125 – $8,000 |
| 6 | $3,500 – $8,165 |
| 7 | $4,085 – $9,335 |
Cost by Type of Sprinkler Head
The type of sprinkler head you use also affects cost. Rotary sprinkler heads are more expensive than stationary sprinkler heads (also called fixed sprinkler heads). Generally, sprinkler heads cost between $1.50 and $40 per head.
A watering zone can have five to 10 sprinkler heads each, so the costs can quickly add up. Generally, you’ll need fewer rotary sprinkler heads than spray heads (which are stationary) as the former can cover a larger area.
This table lists the average costs of each type of sprinkler head:
| Type of sprinkler head | Cost per sprinkler head (Materials only) |
| Bubbler | $1.50 – $15 |
| Misting or micro | $3 – $12 |
| Pop-up | $3 – $15 |
| Rotary | $5 – $20 |
| Fixed | $8 – $33 |
| Gear-driven rotor | $10 – $40 |
| Impact rotor | $20 – $35 |
Pro Cost vs. DIY Cost
Most experts recommend leaving sprinkler installation — especially underground sprinkler systems — to the professionals. However, if you’re looking for a quick fix, you can easily install an above-ground “system” yourself. They cost $15 to $80 (or more if you’re looking to water a big yard).
Most irrigation pros charge $45 to $100 per hour in labor fees, and the average sprinkler system installation can take a few hours to a day and a half. Labor accounts for about 60% of the total project cost.
If you would like to try your hand at installing your own sprinklers, this article might be of use to you: How to Plan and Install a Home Lawn Sprinkler System
Other Factors That Affect Cost
Here are a few other factors that can also impact your project’s final cost:
Backflow Prevention
Most areas will require you to install a backflow prevention valve, which prevents water from flowing backward and contaminating the drinking water supply.
A backflow preventer valve costs $100 to $600 per piece, not including installation. You will generally need one backflow preventer for your lawn sprinklers.
Sprinkler Add-ons
You can install add-ons to your sprinkler system to make it more water-efficient and convenient to use. Some of these add-ons include Wi-Fi, smartphone, and Alexa-compatible controllers, as well as rain and soil sensors that automatically hold off irrigation when they detect rain and wet soil.
| Sprinkler add-on | Cost per piece |
| Rain and soil sensors | $17 – $75 |
| Wi-Fi and phone-compatible controllers | $125 – $400 |
Permits
You will need to pay for permits and inspections when you install a new sprinkler system. Permits vary in cost from one area to another, but you can expect to pay between $42 and $200 in permit fees. Usually, the installation crew will handle this.
Your HOA may have rules about installing sprinklers in your yard. In addition, some HOAs enforce watering restrictions, and some require that your plans and permits be approved before you start work on the project. Remember to check with them first, or you may be subject to an unwelcome fine.
Difficult Terrain
If the soil that you plan to install sprinklers on is dense and rocky, your contractor may have trouble and charge you more for the extra work.
You’ll also need a drainage solution for water to drain properly if your lawn has slopes. An exterior French drain costs $10 to $65 per linear foot.
FAQ
Here are a few things to ask potential installers:
• How long have you been in business?
• Do you have licensing and insurance?
• How long will it take to install the system?
• Do you seed or sod over the trenching?
• Have you worked with HOAs before?
• Which systems or brands do you use? How long is their lifespan? Are they commercial or residential grade, and do they come with a manufacturer’s warranty?
• Will you take care of any necessary permits? What costs or fees should I expect besides parts and labor?
It costs between $59 and $144 to winterize a sprinkler system. Learn more about the cost breakdown in our sprinkler system winterization pricing guide.
How much your water bill will increase will depend heavily on where you live. If you experience scorching summers, expect your water bill to shoot up by a few hundred dollars.
If you’re worried about conserving water and keeping your water bill as low as possible, consider using rain and soil sensors. You can also consider installing a rainwater collection system, like a rain barrel. It will cost you more, but it pays for itself in the long run.
Hire an Irrigation Pro
Sprinkler systems are not an obvious home improvement choice to increase curb appeal, but they can do magic. A professionally installed sprinkler system helps your yard put on a green, lush, healthy look in no time and is an attractive feature for home buyers.
Use the LawnStarter website or app and find the best lawn care and landscaping professional in your area to install the sprinkler system you need. Your free quote is just a click away.
Maria Isabela Reis contributed to this article.
Note: LawnStarter may get a referral fee for matching you with contractors in your area.
Close-up of a sprinkler head. Main Image Credit: Ivan Radic / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
