How Much Does a Reverse Osmosis Water Filter System Cost in 2025?
A reverse osmosis water system costs an average of $2,200
The average cost of a reverse osmosis system is $2,200, with most homeowners spending between $1,000 and $4,800 on average. Entry‑level units start near $150, while top‑tier models can reach $10,000.
System efficiency, the number of filtration stages, NSF rating, and add-ons significantly affect the total price.
The labor cost to install a reverse osmosis system varies from $100 to $1,500, depending on its complexity, and hiring a professional ensures a proper installation.
Installing a reverse osmosis system can improve water quality, reduce reliance on bottled water, and may even increase a home’s resale valu
This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
Installing a reverse osmosis system is a smart way to get cleaner water at home. This guide breaks down the costs—an average of $2,200, ranging from $1,000 and $4,800 on average—and highlights the key factors that will help you choose the right setup for your household.
The total cost to install a system depends on the design, system capabilities, and labor costs. Hiring a professional plumber to install your reverse osmosis water system is a wise choice that protects your investment and ensures the system operates properly.
Reverse Osmosis System Cost Factors
Several factors can impact the cost of a reverse osmosis system, including efficiency, the number of stages, NSF rating, labor, add-ons, and ongoing expenses.
Cost by System Type
There are two types of reverse osmosis systems: whole-home and point-of-use. These systems vary in their design, process, and price point.
| System Type | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Whole-home | $1,000–$4,800 |
| Point-of-use - countertop | $200–$700 |
| Point-of-use - tankless | $250–$900 |
| Point-of-use - under sink | $200–$800 |
Whole-Home
Also known as point-of-entry systems, whole-home reverse osmosis systems treat water the moment it enters your house from the main water line. These systems cost between $1,000 and $4,800 and are best for homes using well water, rainwater, or water with high levels of contaminants.
Point-of-Use
Point-of-use systems are often attached to specific faucets and treat only the water from that tap. Depending on the system design, point-of-use systems range in price from $200 to $900. You can find point-of-use systems in countertops, under-sink tankless, and under-sink tank designs. Countertop systems are the most budget-friendly, while under-sink tank systems are the most costly.
Efficiency
Reverse osmosis systems measure efficiency in how quickly filtered water is produced and how much water is lost during the process. New high-efficiency systems have a one-to-one ratio, with one gallon of waste per filtered gallon. Less efficient systems can produce up to four gallons of water per gallon of filtered water produced. You can expect to pay up to $300 more for a high-efficiency system.
Number of Stages
The number of stages in a reverse osmosis system determines the level of filtration the water receives. Most systems feature three to seven filtration stages, and the higher the number of stages, the higher the system's price.
NSF Rating
The National Sanitation Foundation sets ratings for water treatment filters that guarantee the system’s level of filtration. The higher a system's NSF rating, the higher the cost.
Labor
Plan to spend between $300 and $700 on labor. A simple point‑of‑use unit usually runs $100 to $300 to install, while a whole‑house system can reach $1,500. Local plumbers charge $45 to $200 per hour.
Add-Ons
You can tailor a system with smart monitoring, tankless operation, extra pumps, or remineralization cartridges, but each add‑on pushes the price higher.
Ongoing Costs
Plan on professional maintenance to keep your system running smoothly. At each visit, a technician inspects the unit, swaps the filters, and tunes everything for peak performance.
Does a Reverse Osmosis System Increase Home Value?
The value a reverse osmosis system adds to your home depends on the type and quality of the system installed. While countertop or under-sink systems offer the benefit of clean water at specific taps, they’re often not enough to increase your home value. Whole-home systems filter water from any faucet in the house, so they may increase value and attract potential buyers.
Budgeting for a Reverse Osmosis System
A reverse osmosis system is a sizable investment, but you can trim expenses with these budget‑friendly tips:
Choose a cost-efficient system with the minimum efficiency and NSF rating for your needs.
Compare prices from local contractors to find the most affordable option in your area.
Opt for a point-of-use system rather than a whole-home system.
Keep up with regular maintenance to prevent costly repairs.
DIY vs. Hiring a Water Filtration Pro
Hiring a local plumbing professional to install your reverse osmosis water system is a smart investment that can save you the time and stress of attempting this as a DIY project. A plumber is experienced with these systems and can properly and efficiently install yours while avoiding costly plumbing mistakes or potential water damage. They also have the knowledge to make expert recommendations on the type of system that’s best for your needs, as well as maintenance tips that will help extend the life of your reverse osmosis system.
How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data
No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
In a reverse osmosis system, water from your main line—or from a designated faucet—is pushed through a semipermeable membrane under pressure. The membrane’s microscopic pores trap dissolved solids, heavy metals, and other contaminants, while clean water passes into a storage tank or straight to the tap. The leftover concentrated water simply drains away. The result is clear, great‑tasting water delivered right where you need it.
A plumber can set up a point‑of‑use unit in one to two hours. A whole‑house system is more involved and often takes one to two days because it ties into the main supply line and may need extra plumbing. During installation, the pro mounts the unit, connects the pipes, checks for leaks, and tests performance so you’re ready to pour a glass as soon as they leave.
Reverse osmosis removes dissolved solids, heavy metals, and many microorganisms, giving you water that tastes cleaner and protects your family. Softer water also helps appliances, faucets, and ice makers last longer. Because you’re filling reusable bottles instead of buying single‑use plastic, most homeowners save money and cut waste. In short, you get better‑tasting water, longer‑lasting appliances, and a smaller environmental footprint from one straightforward system.
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