Owning a backyard pond means decorating your backyard garden in a more natural, eye-catching, mind-blowing and peaceful way. A backyard pond is the most beautiful addition that can provide beautiful reflection and water tranquility. But the optimal question is that how much does a backyard pond cost?
The cost of a backyard pond depends on a few factors like the project size, complexity and the decorating way. Depending on your tastes and needs, Backyard Ponds may cost more or less.
For example, decorative plants, fish, artificial fountains and materials used to enhance natural beauty may increase the expense of a backyard pond.
Although we don’t know how much luxurious backyard pond you are expecting? But we are discussing details on all types of popular backyard pond costs. We hope this guide can help you a lot to do the pond project.
What is the average cost of a backyard pond?
The regular cost of a backyard pond is questioning to the maximum owner because they think a backyard pond means a depth hole with some simple lines. But in reality, a backyard pond average cost is $5000 to $20,000.
Where to Build a Pond?
You are maybe dreaming of an ideal backyard pond. But are you confused that we were to build a pond? Keep in mind that an ideal pond has to be at the flat section of a backyard. But if you always want some flow in the water, you can build a pond in a combination of flat and slope.
Next, come to the pond placement. Where exactly do you want to build the Pond? Do you want to place it directly under sunlight or in a shady place? Remember, the ideal pond placement depends on the plants, herbs, fish and animals you want to keep in your Pond. Sunlight is not good for all plants, but some aquatic plants need direct sunlight.
The same goes for fish and aquatic animals of different species. Overall, not all species can survive in the same environment. For this reason, it is good to decide about your favorite plants and aquatic animals before starting your project.
Then you can build a pond in the right place and keep the plants and animals of your choice there. Otherwise, your pond placement won’t go with your preferred decoration. We recommend consulting with a landscaper who has enough knowledge about landscaping.
Backyard Pond Cost by Size
How much does a pond cost as per the size? there have two benefits of knowing pond cost by size. First of all, you will get a basic idea about size wise cost. Secondly, it helps to determine the pond size according to the yard measurement. So, let’s know.
| Backyard pond size | Average cost |
| 4’-0” x 6’-0” | $3,500 – $5,000 |
| 6’-0” x 8’-0” | $7,500 – $10,000 |
| 8’-0” x 11’-0” | $12,000 – $16,000 |
| 11’-0” x 16’-0” | $13,000 – $25,000 |
| 16’-0” x 21’-0” | $25,000 – $35,000 |
| 26’-0” x 26’-0” | $35,000 – $50,000 |
How Much Does a Backyard Pond Cost? Backyard Pond Construction Costs by Type:
Pond types are slightly related to the pond size. There have different types of ponds like farm pond, garden pond, koi pond, fishing pond and swimming pond. These ponds are different in size according to their features. So, here is the average cost of different types of ponds.
| Type of ponds | Average cost |
| Garden pond | $3,000 to $15,000 |
| Farm pond | $4,000 to $10,000 |
| Koi pond | $9,000 to $13,000 |
| Regular fishing pond | $10,000 to $75,000 |
| Man-made lake | $30,000 to $50,000 |
| Swimming pool | $50,000 to $100,000 |
Natural Swimming Pond Cost:
Natural swimming ponds refer to a watery place made with artificial equipment but appears like a natural pond. There have two individual parts of a natural swimming pond.
One part is full of medium depth water, and another is decorated with natural herbs and plants. A pipe works to maintain the water circulation between two parts. The average cost of a natural swimming pond is $50,000 to $100,000.
Man-made Lake Cost:
It is an artificial lake that is larger, wider and deeper enough to put cultivate fish. An artificial lake doesn’t require a liner or filtration to change the water because it has enough depth to store fish. Depending on the size and landscaping type, it would be expensive or affordable. However, the average cost is $30,000 to $50,000.
farm animals
Farm Pond Cost:
This Pond usually makes for farm animals like hens, ducks and cattle. When you are a farm owner and not getting enough water for your livestock, this simple lake is best then. But how much does it cost to build a farm pond? Do note the average cost of a farm pond cost is $4,000 to $10,000.
Fish Pond Cost:
How much do you cost to build a fishing pond? fish pond means such a reservoir that is larger enough to cultivate and store yearly fish. It is also used as a personal hatchery. You can decorate as per your wish. Good to know that the fish pond required a filtration system to maintain the freshwater supply. You can use a concrete or soil liner for this type of Pond. The average cost of a fish pond is about $10,000 and $75,000.
Koi Pond Cost:
Koi and goldfish are the most beautiful fish, which can enhance your backyard pond’s entire beauty. Many houses owner love to make koi ponds, and Koi is a smaller but depth pond that provides an enjoyable and healthy environment for living koi and gold fish even in winter. The average cost to make a koi pond is $9,000 and $13,000.
Backyard Pond Cost:
Backyard pond refers to a medium-sized pond at the back of the yard that is generally made with favorite plants, herbs and aquatic animals. At the same time, many love to decorate the backyard pond with artificial materials, stone, herbs and fountain. So, the cost varies depending on the owner preference. However, the average cost of a backyard pond is $3,000 – $15,000.
Patio Pond Cost:
The smaller version of a koi pond is also called a patio pond. This Pond is smaller in size but aesthetic in decoration. Here you can keep a small range, colorful fish, favorite lotus flowers and turtles. It will provide you with the natural beauty of a pond. Additionally, you can decorate your patio pond with artificial flowers, stone and lighting. The average cost of a patio pond is $180 to $400.
How Much Does a Backyard Pond Cost ? Pond Installation cost by Size:
The average pond installation cost of a pond is 2.50 and 7.15 dollar per square foot. Remember that installation cost is related to both surface area and depth. In that case, if the depth increases, the installation cost will also increase.
Also, know that your installation cost will be $3,000 and $8,200 per acre if you plan to make a pond in less than 10-acre land. On the contrary, this cost will increase from $10,000 to $50,000 per acre if you plan to make a pond in more than 10-acre land.
| Size in acre | Average installation cost |
| 150 square feet | $380 – $1,080 |
| ¼ acre | $750 – $2,050 |
| ½ acre | $1,500 – $4,100 |
| 1 acre | $3,000 – $8,200 |
| 10 acres | $10,000 – $50,000 |
| 20 acres | $20,000 – $100,000 |
Cost to Excavate Quarter-Acre Pond:
The average cost to excavate 1/4-acre pond is $750 and $2,050. But this cost may increase up to $4,500 according to your land. Good to know that land excavates average cost is $1,200 and $4,500. However, $800 and $1,500 may be add with this cost often. A 1/2-acre pond cost will be half of this cost.
One-Acre Pond Cost:
How much does it cost to dig a 1-acre pond? a simple one-acre pond may cost you $3,000 to $8,200. The average cost is $5,600, and this average cost may increase for adding fish and liner.
Cost to Build a 20-Acre Lake:
A 20 -acre lake means the largest area to dig and decorate with essential material. The average cost to dig a pond of 20-acre is $10,000 to $100,000. There is a difference in design and style according to the needs of the lake owners. For luxurious style, you need to increase the budget. How much does it cost to build a 10-acre lake? It will be half of 20-acre land.
Cost to Build a Small Pond:
Do you want to know the cost to build a pond in your backyard, which will cost you $2.50 and $7.15 per square foot of land? On average, you can make your small Pond within $100.
Pond-Maintenance Costs
Maintenance is usually required once the installation is complete. Costs of maintenances include cleaning, filtration and modification of existing components. If you contribute labor, then this cost will be average $20 to $40 per month.
On the other hand, if you work full time with staff, you will have to spend $ 75 or $ 150 a month. So, this cost will stand from $ 1,500 to $ 2,000 at the end of the year. Remember that investing enough in the pond installation will decrease the maintenance cost later.
Pond Liner Costs Per Square Foot
Using a pond liner is mandatory when your land is not perfect for holding water around the year. What type of liner is good for pond liner is depends on the type and size of a pond? There have multiple options of pond liner.
| Pond line material | Average cost |
| Plastic | $0.25 – $1.20 per square feet |
| Rubber | $0.35 – $2.05 per square feet |
| Fiberglass | $3.50 – $6.00 per square feet |
| Concrete | $60 – $120 per square feet |
Plastic Liners:
The plastic liner is the most affordable than another liner. It comes as a ready to install feature. So, you need to set it on your Pond. The average cost of a plastic pond liner is $0.25 – $1.20 per square foot.
Rubber:
Rubber liners are the most popular, durable and customizable material for a backyard pond, and it is perfect for a shallow pond with the root and plants free bottom. The cost of rubber liner is $0.35 to $2.05 per square foot.
Fibreglass:
Fibreglass liner comes as a shell that is enough durable and long-lasting, and it requires less maintenance than another pond liner. The average cost of fibre glass liner is $3.50 and $6.00 per square foot.
Concrete:
Concrete is the most expensive liner material, and it is not so popular but comes with high durability. It is best for those who want a sturdy and durable pond with a swimming pool. The average cost is $60 to $120 per square foot.
Labor Costs to Build a Backyard Pond
Labor cost cannot be determined as it will vary widely depending on landscaping, decoration, pond size and depth. However, small pond labor cost may be $500 that has not been included with any landscaping. And medium pond labor cost maybe $12,000. At the same time, a medium-size koi pond labor cost maybe $4000 to $9000.
Pond Pump and Filter
Pump and filter are essential for pond cleaning and water flowing. A pump works for water circulation that provides oxygen to ensure comfort for plants and fish. On the other hand, a filter removes debris and dust.
| Filter type | Average cost |
| Skimmer | $50 – $250 |
| Pumps | $50 – $400 |
| Internal | $75 – $400 |
| External | $100 – $400 |
Skimmer:
The skimmer is the most efficient filter for medium to larger Pond, and it needs less maintenance. The cost of a skimmer is $50 and $250.
Pump:
A pump is essential when there have a waterfall, fountain and fish in your Pond because the pump can continue the water circulation for oxygen. The cost of a pump is $50 and $400.
Internal Filter:
Internal filter is designed to increase the Pond natural appearance. But it required much maintenance. The average cost of an internal filter is $75 to $400.
External Filter:
External filter is good for all types of ponds. The cost of an external filter is $100 to $400.
Pond Cost vs Hire a Professional
DIY pond cost is much less than hiring a professional worker. However, professional work does not risk destroy the project because they are experts in this sector.
On the contrary, the DIY pond project has not had enough experience, so they may get disappointed to make the whole project. It is good to hire a professional to complete this type of creative project.
Pond shape Ideas
Pond shape is very important for estimating a pond cost. For example, a square and rectangular Pond are easier to make because they only require straight lines. On the other hand, a circular shape pond is critical to make, and besides, it needs more budget to make a circular shape pond.
Enhancement and Improvement Costs
Outdoor Lighting:
The cost of casual outdoor lighting is $3,800. Outdoor lighting will give you daylight at night.
Pond Surrounding:
Edging or surrounding is used to hide the pond location. The average cost of making an edge is $2 to $6 per foot.
Pond Bridge:
A pond bridge is a very beautiful addition of a backyard pond to increase natural beauty. You have to expense about $200 – $500 for a five-foot bridge.
Adding Landscaping:
Landscaping is the most important part of a beautiful backyard pond. There is no real joy in building a backyard pond without proper landscaping. You can add landscaping as per your wish. But the average cost is $500 to $300 for landscaping.
Stone Pathway:
You can make a stone pathway to sit or walking around the Pond. There have several expensive and affordable stones. So, the cost may vary, and the average cost is $2 per stone.
Pond Heater:
If you live in a very cold area, it is important to have a heater in the Pond. The casual heater cost for Pond is $ 50 – $ 100.
Waterfall:
An artificial fountain or waterfall is most popular for a backyard pond. The average cost of a fountain or waterfall is $1,200 to $1,800.
Pond Fish Prices
Here is the chart of average cost for pond fish prices. Fish can increase your pond beauty.
| Fish name | Price | Feature | Pond type |
| Goldfish | $0.31-$0.50 | Easy to care | More than 20 gallons |
| Catfish | $0.55-$1.55 | Quick growing | Larger pond |
| Trout | $0.60-$1.60 | High maintenance | Fishing ponds |
| Bass | $0.90-$3.20 | Quick growing | Large pond |
| Black Moor | $5-$6 | Friendly | More than 20 gallons |
| Koi | $10-$25 | Difficult to care | Large pond |
Pond Plant Prices
Aquatic plants increase the pond beauty and work for natural filtration. Here is a list of pond plant prices.
| Plants | Pond | Price | Care |
| Anacharis | All pond | $4-$8 | No fertilizer |
| Water Lettuce | Large pond | $5-$8 | Easy to care |
| Iris | Shallow pond | $7-$10 | Improve water quality |
| Cattail | Shallow pond | $8-$11 | Improve water quality |
| Water Lilies | Deep pond | $30-$45 | Easy to care |
| Lotus | Deep pond | $40-$55 | Hard to care |
FAQs:
- Are backyard ponds expensive?
A backyard pond may be expensive or affordable, depending on the landscaping and artificial decoration. The cost is dependent on the demand for the luxurious decoration of the Pond as per the owner demand.
- How deep should a pond be for a fish to survive winter?
For all general fish, 18 inches depth is enough for surviving in winter. But this depth should be 30 inches for the extensive cold regions. And fish should be kept indoors for some time in snowy areas.
- What do you put in the bottom of a pond?
You can put a versatile liner at the bottom of a pond. These include plastic, rubber, fiberglass and concrete. Good to know that plastic is affordable, fiberglass is durable and long-lasting. On the other hand, concrete is expensive but super-efficient and sturdy.
Conclusion:
Do we believe that you understand that how much does a backyard pond cost? This guide has covered a depth guideline to get the creativity of making a backyard pond with cost. If you have more queries about a backyard pond cost, then let us know.
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