How Much Does It Cost to Install a Fire Pit?

By Hannah Stephens

July 29, 2024

If your idea of summer fun includes plenty of backyard entertaining, a fire pit could be the perfect garden upgrade. Fire pits keep your guests toasty as the sun sets, and you don't have to spend a fortune to install a practical (and Insta-worthy) heat source in your backyard.

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Fire Pit Installation Costs

According to Lawn Love, the average cost to install a fire pit is around $830 (CAD 1,131). Keep in mind, though, that there's a wide range of prices with this project. Most homeowners spend between $250 and $2,200 (CAD 341 and CAD 3,000), but a custom-built model could cost up to $5,000 (CAD 6,816).

Labor costs account for roughly 50% of the cost of a fire pit. Therefore, most professional fire pit installers charge between $125 and $1,100 (CAD 170 and CAD 1,499) or approximately $60 to $100 (CAD 82 to CAD 136) per hour.

DIY Backyard Fire Pit: How Much Does It Cost to Build a Fire Pit?

Building a fire pit yourself is significantly cheaper because you won't pay for labor. DIYers typically spend between $150 and $300 (CAD 204 and CAD 409) on the materials, tools and supplies needed to construct a fire pit. All-in-one fire pit kits can make DIY installation even easier. These fire pit kits start at about $200 (CAD 273).

However, some types of fire pits are unsuitable for DIY installation. Gas and propane fire pits require a new gas line to deliver fuel to your unit, and you should always hire a professional to ensure a safe, leak-free installation.

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What Factors Impact the Price of Building a Fire Pit?

Various factors impact fire pit costs, including the materials, features and fuel type. Understanding the price difference between fire pit types can help you choose a model to suit your budget.

Inground Vs. Above-Ground

There are two main types of fire pits: inground and above-ground. Above-ground fire pits are often freestanding, although some homeowners build permanent fixtures. You can purchase a basic above-ground fire pit for $200 (CAD 273) or less from most home improvement stores, but premium models can cost up to $1,500 (CAD 2,045).

Inground fire pits are installed below the ground on your deck or patio. Most feature a custom-built retaining wall made from brick or stone, costing between $1,000 and $3,000 on average. While in-ground fire pits are costlier than above-ground models, they typically last longer. Inground models are also safer because the retaining wall prevents the fire from spreading.

Fuel Type

Depending on the fuel type, you may need to install additional features to supply your fire pit. Here are some ideas of cost by fuel type:

Charcoal

Charcoal fire pits are your cheapest option. You don't need a fuel line or a tank, and there are even cast iron, above-ground options you can use straight out of the box. The average cost of a charcoal fireplace is about $300.

Propane

Propane-powered fire pits need a tank of fuel to burn. That said, installation costs are generally pretty low — $300 to $950.

Wood

Most homeowners think of the wood-burning type when they are considering installing a fire pit. With these quintessential outdoor fireplaces, you get what you pay for. At the low end (about $300), you could get an above-ground model. But if you move toward the upper end ($1,000 or more), you could get a custom, stone, inground fire pit.

Electricity

Unless you want to use an extension cord, you'll have to make sure you have an electrical outlet or dedicated wiring run out to your outdoor fire pit. This increases the cost of installation significantly. If you have available electricity, you could see prices as low as $350, but if you need to hire an electrician, expect to pay up to $1,500.

Natural Gas

Similar to an electric fire pit, installing a natural gas fire pit is the most expensive option because it requires a gas line. You can expect to pay up to $3,000 for a natural gas fire pit.

Size

It's simple math: The larger your fire pit, the more you'll spend on materials and installation. If you're trying to save on costs, installing a smaller fire pit might be the way to go.

Material

Fire pit costs vary between materials, and you could pay more for high-quality, durable options. Aside from fire pit kits (which start at about $200), concrete blocks are your cheapest option. The average cost of stainless models is about $300. Brick fire pits made from brick pavers carry a similar cost. Field stone fire pits are usually the most expensive.

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