Question 1

How much does it cost to drill a well?

Accepted Answer

Average 200ft well in soft to medium ground with submersible pump, PVC casing, and pressure tank: $6,000-$12,000 typical. Hard rock or 400+ ft wells can run $15,000-$30,000. Drilling per foot ($15-$100 depending on ground type) is the largest single line item.

Question 2

How deep should my well be?

Accepted Answer

Depends on local geology and water table. Most residential wells in the US run 100-400ft. Your driller will quote based on regional aquifer data, but include 'no water' contingency language in the contract — if they hit dry rock at planned depth, you typically pay 50% of further drilling cost.

Question 3

Submersible vs jet pump?

Accepted Answer

Submersible (in-well, pushes water up): the modern default. More efficient, lasts 15-25 years, handles 50ft+ wells. Jet pump (above-ground): limited to shallow wells under 25ft of suction lift. Cheaper upfront, less efficient. Always go submersible unless your well is genuinely shallow.

Question 4

PVC vs steel casing?

Accepted Answer

PVC: lower cost ($8-15/ft), corrosion-proof, fine for most residential wells under 200ft. Steel: ($15-30/ft), required by some local codes for deep wells or in areas with surface water risk. Stainless: corrosive water chemistry only.

Question 5

How long does drilling take?

Accepted Answer

200ft well in clay/loam: 2-3 working days. 400ft in rock: 5-10 days. Add 1-2 days for casing + grouting, 1 day for pump install + electrical hookup. Total install (well + tank + electrical): plan a working week.

Question 6

Do I need a permit?

Accepted Answer

Yes in 49 states. Most require a state-licensed well driller, a drilling permit ($100-800 fees), and a water test on completion. Your driller usually pulls the permit and includes the fee in the quote — verify it's a line item.

Question 7

Water testing — what do I need?

Accepted Answer

At minimum: bacterial (coliform, E. coli), nitrate, pH, hardness. EPA recommends adding arsenic, lead, radon, and pesticide screens if local geology / agriculture warrants. Cost: $150-400 for a comprehensive panel. Re-test annually.

Well drilling — frequently asked