Installing a water meter can save you money on yearly water bills and positively impact the environment. Despite the benefits of a water meter, installation can be a bit confusing for newcomers.
Water meter installation can vary in cost depending on a variety of factors. Thankfully, we’ve compiled everything you need to know about the installation costs to give you a better idea of what to expect.
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How Much Does It Cost to Install a Water Meter?
The total costs of connecting a water meter will vary depending on your location, the model, the size of meter, and the company completing the job. In some cases, replacing a water meter can cost as little as $400. Other scenarios might cost around $4,000 if new connections are necessary.
Summary of Costs
The total costs of a water meter installation will be determined by the size, whether you’re using an existing connection if the job requires pavement replacement and labor costs. The total price will also depend on your location. Here are some rough estimates to give you a better idea.
| Meter Size | Existing Connection | New Connection Without Pavement Replacement | New Connection With Pavement Replacement |
| ⅝ Inch | $400 – $500 | $1,450 | $2,300 |
| ¾ Inch | $385 – $450 | $1,475 | $2,350 |
| 1 Inch | $450 – $550 | $1,600 | $2,500 |
| 1-1/2 Inch | $650 – $800 | $2,200 | $3,000 |
| 2 Inch | $775 – $925 | $2,600 | $3,500 |
Remember that these are rough estimates only to give you a better idea of what to expect. The total costs for your water meter installation will depend on your location, company, and circumstances.
What Determines Installation Costs?
There are multiple factors that play into the total cost of a water meter installation project. Let’s break these factors down a bit further to give you a better idea of what to expect.
The Water Meter Device
The water meter itself will play a role in the total costs of installation. The price will vary depending on the size, type, and quality. You can find residential water meters for under $100 to $250. If you opt for a high-tech digital water meter, you may end up paying anywhere from $350 to $1,000, depending on the model.
Keep in mind that these prices are rough estimates and don’t include the cost of installation or labor.
Labor Costs
If you opt for professional installations, you’ll have to pay some labor costs. Plumbers and contractors have varying rates but average around $25 to $30 per hour. Some professionals charge upwards of around $50 to $150 per hour. Other services may charge a flat rate of around $200 to $250, depending on the job. Your mileage will vary depending on your location and circumstance.
New Connection
If you’re replacing an existing water meter, you won’t have to pay as much. However, connecting to a new service line will cost much more. Connecting to a new service line can add around $1,000 to the total installation costs. This price range will vary depending on your location and circumstance.
Pavement Replacement
You’ll have to pay much more If the installation requires the pavement near your house to be replaced. Replacing the pavement can easily add around $800 to $1,000 to the job, depending on several factors. As always, your mileage will vary depending on your location and circumstances.
Other Costs
Typically, you’ll require a permit before you can connect to a city’s water line or make a connection. Some contractors, plumbers, and professionals add these into their total fees and estimates. Some contractors don’t do this or don’t require you to pay these fees.
You may also have to pay a water resources fee depending on your city. The total price for a water resources fee will depend on the size of the water meter. Residential locations might pay around $170 to $1,400. Your mileage will vary depending on your location, circumstances, and contractor.
Can I Install My Own Water Meter?
You might look at all the costs, fees, and expenditures above and wonder whether or not you can install a water meter yourself. Unfortunately, most municipalities don’t allow individuals to install water meters on their own. They usually install the water meters themselves or hire contractors for the job.
You might even be required to purchase the water meter directly through your utility company or municipality. They will also require you to have all other plumbing issues up-to-date and ready to go upon installation. If they do allow you to install a water meter on your own, you can typically purchase an approved model online. As always, your mileage will vary depending on your location, municipality, and circumstances.
What’s the Price of Water Meter Installation?
The total costs of installing a water meter will vary depending on a few different factors. Your location, water meter type, and size will affect the total costs. Whether you’re using an existing connection or replacing the pavement will also affect the total fees. Other permits, requirements, and labor costs will also play a role.
The average cost for a ⅝ inch residential water meter installation might cost around $2,500. In some cases, replacing an existing water meter can cost as little as $400.
Be sure to check with your local municipality for the most accurate information. They might require you to purchase and install a water meter through their approved contractors. As always, your mileage will vary depending on your location and circumstances.
