The average cost to install a new sewer line is $40 to $180 per linear foot or $1,600 to $7,200 total, depending on the pipe material, digging method, and labor rates. Copper pipes cost more than PVC or other plastics. Trenchless boring costs more than digging trenches for the new sewer pipes.
| National Average Cost | $4,000 |
| Minimum Cost | $250 |
| Maximum Cost | $30,000 |
| Average Range | $1,600 to $7,200 |
Once the plumber installs your sewer line, you will need to pay to hook it up to the city's sewer system. This costs $1,000 to $15,000 and depends on local pricing, the home size, and the city's current capacity.
Some municipalities subsidize the cost to connect to the public water and sewer lines. Any assistance depends on local regulations and the complexity of the project.
Copper and cast-iron are the most durable but costly options. Many homeowners opt for plastic piping because it's more affordable and less susceptible to corrosion. The following table gives pricing for pipe materials, not including any connectors or valves. Most sewer lines use 4-inch pipes.
| Pipe material | Average cost per linear foot* |
|---|---|
| Cast-iron | $20 – $75 |
| Copper | $30 – $80 |
| PEX | $2 – $10 |
| PVC | $3 – $8 |
| ABS | $3 – $11 |
Cast-iron sewer pipes cost $20 and $75 per linear foot on average for materials alone. Cast-iron piping used to be popular but is not commonly used anymore because of its tendency to rust. Newer materials like PVC and PEX piping are lighter, cheaper, and rust-proof.
Copper sewer piping costs $30 to $80 per linear foot for materials alone and is the most expensive option. Copper is more lightweight and rust-proof than iron and more durable than plastic. However, copper pipes may freeze easily in the winter and are not the best option for acidic water or well water systems.
PEX sewer pipes cost $2 and $10 per linear foot for materials and are made of cross-linked polyethylene. PEX is more affordable and flexible than copper and more resistant to heat and cold than PVC piping.
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) sewer piping costs $3 and $8 per linear foot for materials alone. PVC piping is budget-friendly, easy to install, and long-lasting but not as durable as other materials.
ABS sewer pipes cost $3 to $11 per linear foot on average for materials alone and are made of recycled plastic resin. ABS is more shock-resistant than PVC and better for extremely cold climates. However, some states like California have banned ABS because it doesn't stand up well to heat and may not perform well in hot climates. Check local regulations before installing ABS piping.
Traditional trenching costs $5 to $12 per linear foot to dig out a conduit for the sewer lines, depending on the depth and if there are any obstacles that need to be removed. The contractors bury the sewer lines and repair grass or landscaping as needed afterwards. Trenchless digging or directional boring costs $10 to $30 per linear foot and uses heavy machinery to quickly dig a horizontal conduit without digging from above. This allows installers to trench beneath landscaping or paved driveways and walkways without damaging them, eliminating the need for repairs or cleanup afterward.
Most plumbers charge $75 to $150 per hour, depending on their experience level and local rates. For trenching, you may need to hire a different contractor if the plumber doesn't have the manpower or equipment to do it.
Common obstacles and costs you may face when installing a sewer line include:
