Cost to Drill a Well in San Diego: Complete 2026 Price Guide
Published February 1, 2026 | 14 min read
If you're considering drilling a water well on your San Diego County property, understanding the true cost is essential for planning and budgeting. Well drilling prices in our region range from $15,000 to $50,000 or more, depending on factors like depth, geology, and site conditions. This comprehensive guide breaks down exactly what you'll pay and why, helping you make an informed decision about your water independence.
Quick Answer: San Diego Well Drilling Costs
- Average total cost: $25,000 - $40,000
- Cost per foot: $35 - $75 (drilling only)
- Typical depth range: 300 - 600 feet
- Includes: Drilling, casing, pump, pressure system, permits
Understanding Well Drilling Costs in San Diego County
San Diego County's unique geology—primarily fractured granite bedrock—makes well drilling more challenging and often more expensive than in regions with soft, water-bearing sediments. However, the investment typically pays off through decades of water independence and freedom from ever-increasing municipal water rates.
Well drilling costs break down into several components, each contributing to your total investment:
Drilling Costs (The Biggest Variable)
The actual drilling represents 50-70% of your total well cost. In San Diego County, expect to pay:
| Formation Type | Cost Per Foot | Common Locations |
|---|---|---|
| Soft soil/alluvium | $35 - $50 | Valley floors, coastal areas |
| Decomposed granite | $45 - $60 | Inland valleys, foothills |
| Hard granite | $55 - $75+ | Mountains, backcountry |
| Mixed formations | $45 - $65 | Transition zones |
Total Project Cost by Depth
Here's what complete, turnkey well installations typically cost based on final depth:
Complete Well Installation Costs (2026)
- 200-300 feet: $15,000 - $25,000
- 300-400 feet: $22,000 - $35,000
- 400-500 feet: $30,000 - $45,000
- 500-600 feet: $38,000 - $55,000
- 600-700 feet: $48,000 - $65,000
- 700+ feet: $55,000 - $80,000+
*Includes drilling, casing, sanitary seal, submersible pump, pressure tank, electrical, and permits
What's Included in Well Drilling Cost?
A reputable well drilling company provides turnkey pricing that includes everything needed for a functional water well. Here's the breakdown of what should be included:
1. Site Preparation and Mobilization
- Drilling rig transport to your property
- Site setup and equipment positioning
- Support vehicle and water truck (for drilling)
- Typical cost: $1,500 - $3,000
2. Drilling and Casing
- Air rotary drilling through rock formations
- Steel or PVC casing installation
- Sanitary grout seal (typically 50+ feet)
- Well cap and surface completion
- Cost varies by depth: $10,000 - $40,000+
3. Pump System
- Submersible pump sized for your well depth
- Drop pipe and electrical wire
- Torque arrestor and check valves
- Pitless adapter or well seal
- Typical cost: $2,500 - $6,000
4. Pressure System
- Pressure tank (typically 40-80 gallon)
- Pressure switch and gauge
- Electrical panel and wiring
- Connection to your home plumbing
- Typical cost: $1,500 - $3,000
5. Permits and Testing
- San Diego County well permit
- Required inspections
- Flow rate testing
- Basic water quality testing
- Typical cost: $500 - $1,500
Factors That Affect Your Well Drilling Cost
Several variables can significantly impact what you'll pay for a new well. Understanding these helps you anticipate costs and avoid surprises:
Required Depth (The #1 Factor)
The depth needed to reach adequate water is the single biggest cost driver. Unfortunately, you can't know the exact depth until drilling begins—though experienced drillers can estimate based on neighbor wells and geological data.
In San Diego County, well depths vary dramatically by location:
| Area | Typical Depth | Expected Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Fallbrook, Bonsall | 200 - 400 ft | $18,000 - $35,000 |
| Valley Center, Escondido | 300 - 500 ft | $25,000 - $45,000 |
| Ramona, Poway | 300 - 500 ft | $25,000 - $45,000 |
| Alpine, Descanso | 400 - 600 ft | $35,000 - $55,000 |
| Julian, Cuyamaca | 500 - 800 ft | $45,000 - $70,000 |
| Campo, Boulevard | 400 - 700 ft | $35,000 - $60,000 |
See our detailed well depth guide by San Diego location for more specific information about your area.
Geology and Rock Hardness
San Diego County's predominant granite bedrock is among the hardest drilling conditions in California. Hard rock:
- Takes longer to drill (more rig time = higher cost)
- Consumes drill bits faster (expensive consumables)
- Requires specialized air rotary equipment
- May need diamond or carbide-tipped bits
For information on drilling through challenging rock formations, see our rock well drilling guide.
Site Accessibility
Getting heavy drilling equipment to your well site affects cost. Factors include:
- Road conditions: Unpaved, steep, or narrow roads may require special equipment
- Distance from road: Long setbacks require more setup time
- Terrain: Hillside or sloped sites need additional preparation
- Obstacles: Trees, structures, or utilities in the way add complexity
Water Table Depth and Yield
If the driller reaches water at a reasonable depth but the flow rate is insufficient, additional drilling may be needed to intersect more water-bearing fractures. Most residential wells need at least 3-5 gallons per minute (GPM) for adequate household supply.
Hidden Costs to Watch For
Some well drilling estimates don't include everything. Ask specifically about these potential additional costs:
Items That May Be Extra
- Electrical service upgrade: Deep wells may require 240V service ($500-$2,000)
- Trenching to house: Burying the water line and electrical ($500-$2,000)
- Water treatment: If water quality requires filtration ($1,500-$5,000+)
- Storage tank: For low-yield wells ($2,000-$8,000)
- Difficult access fees: For challenging terrain ($500-$2,000)
Well Drilling vs. City Water: Long-Term Cost Comparison
Many San Diego County property owners wonder whether a well is worth the upfront investment compared to connecting to municipal water. Here's the math:
Municipal Water Costs
San Diego County has some of California's highest water rates:
- Average monthly bill: $100 - $300+ for residential
- Agricultural/irrigation: $200 - $1,000+ monthly
- Connection fees: $5,000 - $30,000+ (if available)
- Annual rate increases: 5-10% typical
Well Ownership Costs
- Initial drilling: $25,000 - $45,000 (one-time)
- Annual electricity: $300 - $800
- Maintenance: $200 - $500 annually (averaged)
- Pump replacement: $3,000 - $6,000 every 15-20 years
Break-Even Analysis
For a typical household using 15,000 gallons monthly:
- City water: ~$175/month = $2,100/year = $42,000 over 20 years
- Well water: ~$35,000 initial + $15,000 operating (20 years) = $50,000
- Break-even: Approximately 12-15 years
After break-even, you're essentially getting free water while city rates continue climbing 5-10% annually.
For properties with agricultural needs, large landscapes, or high water usage, the payback period is even faster. Learn more in our detailed cost comparison.
How to Get an Accurate Well Drilling Estimate
Getting a reliable cost estimate before drilling requires some homework:
1. Research Neighbor Wells
The best predictor of your well depth is what nearby properties have experienced. Ask neighbors about:
- Their well depth
- Water quality and quantity
- When the well was drilled
- Any problems encountered
2. Check Well Logs
San Diego County maintains records of permitted wells. Your well driller can research these logs to understand typical depths and yields in your area.
3. Get Multiple Quotes
Obtain at least 2-3 estimates from licensed well drillers. Compare:
- What's included (turnkey vs. drilling only)
- Per-foot drilling rates
- Depth guarantees or policies
- Payment terms
- Equipment and experience
4. Understand the Contract
A good well drilling contract should clearly state:
- Estimated depth range based on area data
- Cost per foot if drilling exceeds estimate
- What happens if no water is found
- Warranty on pump and equipment
- Timeline and payment schedule
Ways to Reduce Well Drilling Cost
While you can't control geology, some strategies may help manage costs:
Choose the Right Location
If you have flexibility on well placement, consider sites that:
- Have good road access for drilling equipment
- Are close to your home (reduces trenching costs)
- Avoid steep slopes or dense vegetation
- Meet required setbacks from septic systems
Consider a Shallow Well (If Appropriate)
In some areas with high water tables, a shallow well may be sufficient at significantly lower cost. However, this only works in specific geological conditions—most of San Diego County requires deeper wells.
Timing Your Project
Well drillers are often busiest in late spring through fall. Scheduling during slower winter months may offer more flexibility and sometimes better pricing.
Bundle Services
Using one contractor for drilling, pump installation, and system setup typically costs less than hiring multiple specialists.
Financing Your Well Drilling Project
Several options exist to finance well drilling costs:
Home Equity Loans/Lines of Credit
If you have equity in your property, a HELOC often offers the lowest interest rates for funding well drilling. The interest may be tax-deductible.
Personal Loans
Many banks and credit unions offer personal loans suitable for well drilling. Rates vary based on credit score.
USDA Rural Development Loans
Properties in eligible rural areas of San Diego County may qualify for USDA loans that can cover well drilling as part of home improvement.
Contractor Financing
Some well drillers offer payment plans or financing partnerships. Ask about options when getting estimates.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to drill a well in San Diego?
In San Diego County, drilling a complete residential water well typically costs between $15,000 and $50,000, with most projects falling in the $25,000-$40,000 range. This includes drilling, casing, pump installation, and pressure system. Costs vary based on required depth (determined by local geology), rock hardness, and site accessibility.
What is the cost per foot to drill a well?
In San Diego County, well drilling costs typically range from $35-$75 per foot depending on geology. Soft soil and sediment costs $35-$50 per foot, decomposed granite runs $45-$60 per foot, and hard granite bedrock costs $55-$75+ per foot. These per-foot rates cover drilling only—casing, pump, and electrical are additional.
Is drilling a well cheaper than city water?
Long-term, yes. While well drilling has a higher upfront cost ($15,000-$50,000), you eliminate monthly water bills that average $100-$300+ in San Diego County. Most well owners recoup their investment within 8-15 years, then enjoy essentially free water for the remaining 30+ year lifespan of the well.
What factors affect well drilling cost?
The main factors affecting well drilling cost are: required depth (deeper = more expensive), geology (hard rock costs more than soft soil), site accessibility (difficult access increases costs), pump requirements (deeper wells need more powerful pumps), and permit fees. San Diego County's granite geology often requires depths of 300-600+ feet.
Does the cost include the pump and pressure system?
Reputable well drillers provide turnkey pricing that includes everything: drilling, casing, well seal, submersible pump, pressure tank, electrical connections, and permits. Always confirm what's included in any estimate. Pump and pressure system typically add $3,000-$8,000 to the project depending on well depth and required horsepower.
How deep will my well need to be?
Well depth in San Diego County varies dramatically by location. Coastal and valley areas may find water at 150-300 feet. Inland communities like Ramona, Valley Center, and Escondido typically require 300-500 feet. Mountain and backcountry areas like Julian, Alpine, and Descanso often need 400-700+ feet. A site assessment using neighbor well data provides the best estimate.
Are there financing options for well drilling?
Yes, many homeowners finance well drilling through home equity loans, personal loans, or contractor financing programs. Some well drillers offer payment plans. The USDA also offers Rural Development loans that can cover well drilling for qualifying properties in rural areas of San Diego County.
What permits are required and what do they cost?
San Diego County requires a well permit from the Department of Environmental Health, typically costing $500-$1,500 depending on the type of well and required inspections. Your well driller usually handles the permit application as part of the project. Permits ensure proper well construction, setback distances, and sanitary sealing.
Get Your Free Well Drilling Estimate
Every property is different. We'll research your area's geology, review neighbor well data, and provide a detailed estimate specific to your property—all at no cost or obligation. With decades of experience drilling throughout San Diego County, we'll give you honest answers about what to expect.