If you're looking into cisterns, you're already thinking ahead. Maybe you're tired of rising water bills, or maybe you're done watching rainwater drain away when it could be put to good use.
Whatever brought you here, you’re in the right place. A cistern is one of the smartest investments you can make for water security, whether you're harvesting rainwater for irrigation, emergency preparedness, or even drinking water with the right filtration.
The first question on your mind is, “how much does a cistern cost”?
The price of a cistern varies widely, from a couple of hundred bucks for a basic setup to tens of thousands for a full-scale system. The costs depend on size, material, installation method, and whether you go DIY or hire a pro.
Because of these factors, I will do my best to break down the price based on them. I’ll also try to help steer you towards the type and size of cistern that best fits your needs.
Let’s make sense of the numbers so you can plan your system with confidence.
Cistern Cost Ranges: What You Need to Know
So, how much will a cistern set you back? That depends on what you're looking for. The price of a cistern ranges anywhere from $150 to $25,000+, with rain barrels coming in at a more budget-friendly $80 to $1,700.
What Affects Cistern Costs?
Several factors influence the final cost of your cistern system:
Size – Bigger tanks store more water, but they also cost more upfront. A 200-gallon tank is a different beast compared to a 10,000-gallon setup.
Material – The type of tank you choose—polyethylene, fiberglass, concrete, or steel—impacts both cost and durability.
Installation Complexity – A simple above-ground tank is a weekend DIY project. An underground system? That’s excavation, permits, and possibly professional installation.
Location – Installation costs can skyrocket if you’re in an area with bedrock, poor soil conditions, or strict regulations.
Helpful Resource -> What Cistern Size Do I Need
How Much Should You Expect to Pay?
Let’s talk real numbers.
Above-Ground Cisterns: $2,000 to $10,000+ Typically less expensive to install since they don’t require excavation. However, large industrial-grade tanks (50,000 gallons or more) can drive costs higher.
Underground Cisterns: $6,500 to $24,000+ More expensive due to excavation, but they save space, protect water from temperature swings, and can be necessary in areas with space restrictions.
Polyethylene ($800 – $6,000)
The most affordable option, polyethylene (plastic) tanks are lightweight, easy to install, and resistant to rust and corrosion.
Great for above-ground use, but some underground-rated models exist.
Cons: Less durable over time, can degrade under UV exposure unless protected.
Concrete ($1,100 – $6,800)
A solid mid-range option, concrete cisterns are incredibly durable and long-lasting.
Common for underground installations because they hold up well to soil pressure and temperature fluctuations.
Cons: Heavy, requires professional installation, and transportation costs can add up.
Steel ($2,000 – $12,000)
Corrugated galvanized steel tanks are popular for large-capacity water storage, especially in agriculture and commercial settings.
Available with liners to prevent corrosion, making them ideal for potable water storage.
Cons: Higher cost, potential rust issues if not properly coated or maintained.
Fiberglass ($5,000 – $9,000)
Lightweight but strong, fiberglass cisterns offer a long lifespan with minimal maintenance.
Excellent for both above-ground and underground installations, as they resist corrosion, temperature extremes, and soil conditions.
Cons: Most expensive per gallon of storage, harder to find locally, and requires professional installation.
Budgeting for More Than Just the Tank
Don’t forget—you’re not just paying for the tank itself.
You’ll also need to factor in filtration, pumps, overflow systems, and potentially professional labor. Whether you’re going for a simple rain-harvesting system or a full-scale residential water supply, knowing these costs upfront will help you plan wisely.
Not all cisterns are created equal. Depending on your property layout, water collection goals, and budget, you’ll need to decide between dry vs. wet systems and whether you want to go above-ground or underground. Each has its pros and cons, so let’s break it down.
Dry vs. Wet Cistern Systems: What’s the Difference?
Dry Systems: Simple, Cost-Effective, and Low-Maintenance
If you want a straightforward rainwater collection system, a dry cistern setup is the way to go. Here’s how it works:
Water flows directly from your downspouts into the cistern with no underground piping.
Once it stops raining, the pipes dry out—hence the name.
These systems are cheaper and easier to install, making them ideal for homeowners looking for a DIY-friendly solution.
Best for: Small to mid-sized cisterns, regions with light to moderate rainfall, and properties where the cistern can be placed close to the downspouts.
Considerations: Your cistern needs to be positioned close to your home, which might not always be ideal for space or aesthetics.
Wet Systems: Underground Piping for Larger, More Complex Setups
In a wet cistern system, rainwater flows through underground pipes before reaching the storage tank. Because the pipes stay filled with water between storms, it’s called a "wet" system.
Allows for cistern placement further away from your home.
Works well for larger-scale systems that collect water from multiple downspouts.
More expensive due to the added piping and excavation costs.
Best for: Homes with large roof catchment areas, properties where the cistern needs to be placed away from the house, and people who want a cleaner aesthetic with no exposed piping.
Considerations: Mosquito risk—standing water in the pipes can become a breeding ground if not properly designed with screens or one-way valves. Also, costs more due to added materials and labor.
Underground Cisterns: Hidden, Durable, and Weather-Protected
If you’re thinking long-term and don’t want a big water tank sitting in your yard, an underground cistern might be the way to go.
Saves space – Ideal for properties where above-ground tanks would be an eyesore or take up valuable land.
Temperature stability – Being underground protects water from extreme heat and freezing temperatures.
Longer lifespan – Less exposure to the elements means less wear and tear over time.
Best for: Homeowners looking for a discreet and durable water storage solution, regions with harsh climates, and those who want to maximize yard space.
Considerations: Requires excavation, which adds to installation costs. Soil conditions matter—if you’re dealing with bedrock or high groundwater levels, it can be a major challenge.
How Long Will Your Cistern Water Last?
You invest in a cistern because you want to have water when you need it. So how do you figure out the right size? That depends on your water usage, household size, and local climate. Let’s break it down so you can avoid running out of water when it matters most.
How to Calculate Water Usage
Before picking a cistern size, ask yourself:
How many people are in your household? More people = more water demand.
What’s the primary use? Drinking, irrigation, emergency backup, or full home supply?
What’s your climate like? If you live in an area with long dry spells, you’ll need more storage to bridge the gaps between rain events.
How much water do you use daily? The average American household uses 80–100 gallons per person per day.
Small Cisterns (1,000 Gallons) – For Light Use & Small Gardens
? Watering a small garden
? Using it occasionally for non-essential tasks
? Looking for a backup water supply for emergencies
?? Example:
A single person using 100 gallons per day will empty this tank in 10 days.
Watering a modest backyard garden at 50 gallons per week? This tank could last several months if rainfall refills it periodically.
Medium Cisterns (5,000 Gallons) – Enough for a Small Household
A 5,000-gallon tank provides a reasonable buffer for a small home or larger garden.
? Can supply a family of four for several weeks
? Works well for moderate irrigation needs
? A good choice for off-grid or emergency storage
Example:
A family of four using 75 gallons per person per day will drain this tank in about 16–18 days without refills.
If used for irrigation, this could sustain a 1-acre garden for a full season with efficient watering.
Large Cisterns (10,000 Gallons) – Best for Full Household Supply & Large-Scale Irrigation
For those looking for water security, a 10,000-gallon cistern is ideal.
? Suitable for off-grid living or full home supply
? Perfect for large-scale irrigation
? Helps bridge long dry seasons
Example:
A family of four using 75 gallons per person per day will get about 33 days of water from this tank.
If used for landscaping, this can support 2+ acres of irrigation for an extended period.
Cistern Installation Costs: DIY vs. Professional Installation
A cistern is a serious investment, but installation costs can vary wildly depending on whether you tackle it or hire a professional. Choosing the right approach depends on size, complexity, and comfort level with plumbing and excavation.
DIY vs. Professional Installation: What’s Right for You?
If you’re installing a small, above-ground cistern, DIY is absolutely an option—and it can save you a chunk of cash. A simple rain barrel setup or a 1,000- to 2,500-gallon above-ground tank can be installed with basic tools and a little elbow grease.
What Makes a Good DIY Project?
Your cistern is above ground—no excavation required.
You have basic plumbing knowledge (or a willingness to learn).
You’re comfortable with cutting and connecting pipes, setting up a gravity feed system, and ensuring proper overflow drainage.
You understand local building codes and any permits required for rainwater harvesting.
Estimated DIY Costs:
Small above-ground cistern (1,000-2,500 gallons) – $800 to $4,000, including materials.
Basic tools required – Around $100 to $500, if you don’t already own them.
Professional Installation: Best for Underground or Large Systems
If you’re looking at a large system (5,000+ gallons) or an underground cistern, hiring a professional is the way to go. Excavation, piping, and regulatory compliance all make this a more complicated install than just setting up a tank in your backyard.
When to Call A Contractor Or Professional Installer:
You need a buried cistern, which requires excavation, gravel bedding, and backfilling.
Your system will integrate with home plumbing or supply potable water.
You’re dealing with permits, inspections, and code compliance (some states have strict rainwater collection laws).
Your terrain has bedrock, high groundwater, or other excavation challenges.
Estimated Professional Installation Costs
Underground cistern (5,000-10,000 gallons): $6,500 to $24,000+, including labor.
Excavation alone: $2,000 to $5,000, depending on soil conditions.
Permits and inspections: $100 to $1,000, depending on local requirements.
Choosing the Right Cistern: Final Thoughts
A cistern isn’t just a tank—it’s an investment in water security. Whether you’re looking to cut down on water bills, prepare for droughts, or make better use of rainfall, the right cistern can save you money, reduce reliance on municipal water, and provide long-term peace of mind.
Key Takeaways
Costs vary widely—from $150 to $21,000, depending on size, material, and installation.
Size matters—a 1,000-gallon tank is great for small gardens, while a 10,000-gallon system can support an entire household.
Installation can be DIY or professional—above-ground tanks are manageable for homeowners, but underground systems require excavation and expertise.
Material choice impacts durability and cost—polyethylene is affordable, while concrete and fiberglass offer long-term reliability.
Let’s Find the Right Cistern for You
At Aquabarrel, we’ve spent the last 20 years helping homeowners, preppers, and businesses design and install the right rainwater harvesting systems for their needs. We carry high-quality cisterns in multiple sizes and materials, and we’re happy to help you figure out which system makes the most sense for your budget and goals.
Contact us today for a custom quote on a cistern that fits your needs. Whether you're considering a small rainwater storage setup or a full-scale underground system, we’ll help you navigate the options and get you the best solution at the right price.
?? Visit Aquabarrel.com or call us now to start planning your rainwater collection system!