How much does it cost to drill a well per foot?

Well drilling costs $35-$65 per foot on average in California, depending on geology, location, and well diameter. San Diego County residential wells typically cost $45-$55 per foot for drilling and casing combined. This includes the borehole, casing installation, and grouting but not the pump or pressure system.

What is included in the cost per foot?

Cost per foot typically includes drilling the borehole, steel or PVC casing, grout/cement seal, and basic well development. It does NOT include the pump system ($2,000-$5,000), pressure tank, electrical work, permits ($1,500-$3,000), or water testing. These add $8,000-$15,000 to the per-foot drilling cost.

How deep do you need to drill for water in California?

Well depth varies by location. San Diego County wells typically need 200-600 feet. Coastal areas may find water at 150-300 feet, while inland mountain areas often require 400-800+ feet. Riverside County averages 300-500 feet. A hydrogeologist reviews local well data to estimate your specific depth requirements.

Why do some wells cost more per foot than others?

Per-foot costs increase with: harder rock geology requiring slower drilling; larger diameter casing (8-12 inch vs standard 6 inch); difficult access requiring smaller rigs or hand equipment; deeper depths requiring heavier casing; and remote locations with long mobilization distances. Expect 20-40% higher costs in challenging conditions.

Can you estimate my well cost if I know the required depth?

Yes, use this formula: (Depth in feet × $45-55) + $8,000-15,000 for equipment and services. Example: 400-foot well = (400 × $50) + $12,000 = $32,000 average total cost. This is an estimate—exact pricing requires site assessment and contractor quotes.

Well Drilling Cost Per Foot: 2026 Price Guide

More resources for understanding well costs

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San Diego Well Costs

Complete San Diego County pricing guide.

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Pump Replacement Cost

What well pumps cost in 2026.

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Well Depth Factors

What determines how deep to drill.

Well Service in Cost Per Foot

Cost Per Foot properties in San Diego County rely on private wells drilled through the Peninsular Ranges batholith, primarily granitic and metamorphic rock. Local geological conditions affect everything from drilling depth and cost to water quality and pump selection.

Drilling Conditions in Cost Per Foot

Well drilling in Cost Per Foot typically encounters the Peninsular Ranges batholith, primarily granitic and metamorphic rock. Most wells can be completed in 1-3 days under normal conditions. The relatively moderate depths keep drilling costs reasonable, though rocky formations can slow progress.

San Diego County requires a well permit from the Department of Environmental Health (DEH) before drilling can begin. The permit process typically takes 2-4 weeks and costs $800-$1,500 depending on the parcel. We handle the entire permit process for Cost Per Foot properties.