If you’ve been dreaming of adding a relaxing fountain or waterfall to your outdoor space, you’re probably wondering about the cost of outdoor water feature installations. It’s one of the most common questions we get, and the honest answer is that it depends on a few factors. What type of water feature you want, how elaborate the design is, and if there’s any yard grading that needs to be done first all affect the final total.

Today, we’re walking you through what to expect for a water feature cost, what affects the price tag, and what you should consider in terms of ongoing expenses once it’s in. Keep reading to get a clear idea of what goes into budgeting for a backyard fountain, and you’ll be ready for us to get started bringing your vision to life!

How Much Does a Water Feature Cost in General?

You might’ve read our guide on what a water feature costs, but let us catch you up to speed here, too. Water feature pricing can vary quite a bit depending on size, complexity, and style, but there are some typical starting points to help you start planning ahead. 

A simple backyard fountain usually starts at a few thousand dollars, while more involved features like pondless waterfalls or full backyard ponds start higher due to the excavation, equipment, and natural stonework involved.

For a basic fountain installation, you can expect a starting cost in the neighborhood of $3,800. Pondless waterfalls often start around $,6,800 depending on the design, how much rock is used, and how the water is recirculated. If you’re going for a natural-looking backyard pond, those typically begin around $13,000 in the Capital Region.

It’s also worth remembering that the cost of outdoor water feature installation isn’t just about the water itself. Surrounding landscaping like plants, lighting, edging, or hardscaping can add to the overall budget. Many homeowners like to add a water feature installation to existing landscaping, which may cut down on the final cost as compared to starting from scratch.

What Does an Outdoor Fountain Water Feature Cost?

Backyard fountains are one of the most accessible entry points when it comes to water features. If you’re asking yourself, “how much does a water feature cost if it’s just a fountain?” the answer depends on the type of fountain you choose. As we mentioned above, more basic freestanding fountains tend to start around $3,800. That covers professional installation, plumbing, and a compact pump system to keep the water flowing.

More elaborate designs like multi-level stone fountains or large centerpiece installations can increase your water feature cost. Factors like size, material (natural stone vs. precast fountains), and whether the fountain includes lighting or automation will impact the price. But even with those variables, a backyard fountain is still one of the most budget-friendly options for adding water features to your outdoor area.

Leaving it to the professionals may be a higher upfront investment, but it’s worth it to avoid the downsides of DIY water feature installation that could cost much more in materials and damages if not done correctly.

Water Feature Cost Factors

There’s a reason that water feature cost estimates vary so much: no two yards or designs are going to be the same. A small patio fountain and a large, multi-level pond with a stream flowing into it are going to be two very different projects at differing price points. There are a few major details that affect your total cost. Having a consultation with water feature installation professionals is the best way to get an accurate estimate.

Here are some of the biggest factors that will impact how much a water feature costs for your home:

• Type of water feature (fountain, pondless waterfall, pond, etc.).
• Size and scope of the water feature.
• Kinds of materials used (natural stone, premade fountains, etc.).
• Water pump and filtration system.
• Installation site accessibility and prep work needed.
• Electrical or plumbing requirements.
• Additional landscaping or lighting around your water feature.

Ongoing Outdoor Water Feature Maintenance Costs

Once your backyard fountain water feature is installed, you’ll still have to do things to keep it running smoothly. Fortunately, most water features are designed to be efficient, especially if they use recirculating systems the way fountains do. Your water feature won’t constantly need new water from your hose or an irrigation system. This helps keep operating costs low and makes having a backyard fountain water feature more affordable than you might expect.

For larger features like ponds or stream systems, we highly recommend seasonal maintenance. That includes cleaning, pump checks, filter changes, and winterizing (or restarting in the spring). Water fountain maintenance usually just means an occasional cleaning and a quick check on the water level. For the winter, you can remove the water pump and keep it submerged in water somewhere in the house to avoid it freezing.

Let’s Install Your Backyard Water Feature

Whether you’re looking at adding a small backyard fountain or something larger, knowing the cost of outdoor water feature installation ahead of time helps you plan smarter and avoid surprises. Water features can be simple and elegant or big and elaborate. No matter which you choose, you’re sure to love it and enjoy it for years to come. 

Ready to transform your landscaping with a backyard fountain installation? Check out the NVS Waterscapes Project Planner to get an idea of what you want. When you’re ready, give us a shout and let’s get started on your project!