How Much Does it Cost to Build a Koi Pond in 2025?
On average, it costs $7,500 to build a koi pond
Most homeowners pay between $3,000 and $12,000 for koi-pond installation.
Pond size, landscaping needs, and special features drive the final price.
A well-designed pond boosts curb appeal, may raise property value, and creates a peaceful backyard retreat.
This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
Most homeowners spend between $3,000 and $12,000 to build a koi pond, with an average of $7,500. Smaller projects may get as low as $1,500, while larger projects can reach a max of $25,000.
\Your final price depends on pond size, location, and the features you choose. Because koi are living fish, plan for regular maintenance and budget accordingly. Working with an experienced pond builder helps ensure crystal-clear water, healthy fish, and long-term durability.
Koi Pond Construction Costs
Koi ponds cost between $3,000 and $12,000 to build, depending on their size, but several factors, such as excavation costs and landscaping, can impact the final price. The cost to install a pond can increase significantly if your landscape is challenging to work with.
Here are common construction costs to budget for:
| Construction Task | Estimated Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Excavation | $1,450–$5,650 | Required to dig the pond to its proper depth |
| Lawn regrading | $1,000–$3,200 | May be included with the excavation |
| Landscaping installation | $1,300–$5,675 | Covers plants, edging, and surrounding features |
| Plumbing labor | $45–$200 per hour | Needed to install or reroute water lines and filtration systems |
Koi Pond Costs by Size
While square footage matters, obstacles such as tree roots and premium add-ons like waterfalls often have a bigger impact on the final bill. Expect to pay roughly $75 to $125 per square foot.
| Pond Size (Surface Dimensions) | Price Range |
|---|---|
| 6’ x 8’ | $3,000–$6,000 |
| 7’ x 11’ | $5,775–$9,625 |
| 10’ x 14’ | $6,000–$12,000 |
| 15’ x 20’ | $12,000–$25,000 |
| 20’ x 25’ | $37,500–$62,500 |
| 25’ x 30’ | $56,250–$93,750 |
The ideal depth for a koi pond is 3 to 4 feet. This table showcases surface dimensions only.
Koi Pond Cost by Feature
The features you choose can significantly impact the total cost of your koi pond. From filters and liners to waterfalls and plants, each element adds to both the beauty and the budget.
| Pond Feature | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Filter pad | $40–$60 |
| Filter | $70–$500 |
| Liner | $100–$1,000 |
| Waterfall or water fountain | $500–$5,000 |
| Edging (concrete, brick, stone) | $1–$15 per sq. ft |
| Skimmer | $100–$200 |
| Circulation pump | $15–$675 |
| Aquatic plants | $12–$25 per plant |
Ways to Save on Koi Pond Costs
Want to keep your koi pond budget in check? Try these cost-cutting strategies:
Opt for a smaller or more basic design to reduce upfront expenses.
Use a preformed pond kit for a quicker, more affordable setup.
Schedule installation during the off-season to take advantage of lower rates.
Compare quotes from several experienced contractors. Skip premium features and stick to essentials to manage costs effectively.
Keep up with maintenance to prevent expensive issues down the line.
Choose energy-efficient pumps and filters to save in the long term.
Plan your design with future add-ons in mind to avoid rework.
DIY Koi Pond Installation vs. Hiring a Professional
Because koi require a carefully balanced ecosystem, professional design and installation are well worth the investment. A pro can help you choose between a prefab kit and a fully custom build, then install the filtration and aeration systems your fish need to thrive. Search for koi pond services near you to get started.
Connect with a local koi pond builder to ensure the job is done right the first time.
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.
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