The cost of a fire pit will vary depending on the materials you choose and the size and features you want. The national average price for a basic fire pit is $830, with most homeowners spending between $250 and $2,200, including materials and labor.
The size of your fire pit will be one of the most significant factors in the overall cost. A small, simple fire pit may cost as little as $200, while a large, custom-built fire pit can cost $5,000 or more.
The type of fire pit you choose will also affect the price. Above-ground models are usually the most affordable, while in-ground fire pits tend to be more expensive due to the extra labor involved in the installation.
In this article:
- Average costs
- Cost estimator by size
- Other factors that affect cost
- Related services
- Pro cost vs. DIY cost
- Cost by location
- FAQ
Average costs for a fire pit in 2024
| National average cost | $830 |
| Typical price range | $250 – $2,200 |
| Extreme low end cost | $200 |
| Extreme high end cost | $5,000 |
A fire pit is ideal for roasting marshmallows, providing warmth on a cool night, or just creating a relaxing ambiance in your backyard, but it’s also a significant investment.
The cost of the fire pit will depend on several factors, such as:
- Materials
- Type of fire pit (in-ground vs. above-ground)
- Type of fuel used
- Size
- Labor
- Location
The average cost of a fire pit is around $830, with installation making up half of that total. Most homeowners spend between $250 and $2,200 on materials and labor for their fire pits.
For a more elaborate fire pit that’s built in to your deck or patio, with stone or brick edging and other custom features, you could spend as much as $2,000, or even more. The sky’s the limit for luxury fire pits, with some models costing upwards of $5,000 in total.
The good news is that plenty of affordable fire pit options are available, no matter your budget. You can easily find an above-ground fire pit for under $200 if you’re willing to sacrifice some of the bells and whistles.
At the end of the day, the cost of your fire pit will largely depend on your personal preferences and how much you’re willing to spend.
Fire pit cost estimator by size
The size of your fire pit is one of the main factors that will affect the overall cost. A small, simple fire pit of 36 inches or so may cost as little as $200, while a large, custom-built fire pit of 48 inches can cost $2,000 or more.
All else equal, the larger the fire pit, the more it will cost. This is because you’ll need more materials to build a bigger fire pit, and the installation process will be more labor-intensive.
To give you a better idea of how much your fire pit will cost based on its size, here’s a rough estimate:
| Fire pit diameter | Average cost |
| 36 inches | $200 – $900 |
| 40 inches | $165 – $1,300 |
| 44 inches | $165 – $1,600 |
| 48 inches | $250 – $2,000 |
Other factors that affect cost
Fire pits come in various styles, materials, and sizes, so the cost can vary significantly from one pit to the next (even if they’re the same size). For example, a basic above-ground fire pit made of concrete will cost less than an in-ground fire pit with custom stonework.
Type of fire pit
Above-ground and in-ground fire pits are the two primary types, each with their own set of pros and cons. The kind of pit you select will significantly affect the project’s cost.
| Type of fire pit | Average cost |
| Above-ground fire pit | $200 – $1,500 |
| In-ground fire pit | $1,000 – $3,000 |
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly fire pit, an above-ground model made of steel or aluminum is a good option. These pits are typically less than $200 and can be found at most home improvement stores. Of course, you can also find more expensive above-ground fire pits. For example, a high-end stainless steel fire pit may cost upwards of $1,500 in total.
If you want a built-in fire pit on your deck or patio, expect to pay, on average, between $1,000 and $3,000 for the project. These fire pits are usually made from natural stone or brick. They can be customized to match the look of your home. They are more complex to install, so they cost more.
| Pros and cons of in-ground fire pits | Pros and cons of above-ground fire pits |
| ✓ Less dangerous than above-ground pits because they’re surrounded by a retaining wall ✓ Can be customized to match the existing décor in your backyard ✘ More expensive than above-ground fire pits ✘ Difficult to install | ✓ Less expensive ✓ Can be portable ✘ Not as durable as in-ground fire pits ✘ Riskier than in-ground fire pits because the flames can easily escape if not monitored carefully |
Material
You can find fire pits made from various materials to fit any taste or budget. The price of each material will differ based on quality, durability, and availability. A homeowner can spend as little as $150 on a fire pit made from concrete, while another might pay over $3,000 on a high-end stone fire pit.
From lowest to highest, here’s a rough estimate of how much each type of fire pit material will cost:
| Materials | Average cost |
| Concrete blocks | $150 – $800 |
| Stainless steel | $250 – $1,200 |
| Brick pavers | $300 – $2,200 |
| Field stones | $350 – $3,000 |
Concrete
Concrete is a popular option for fire pits because it’s inexpensive, and you can shape it into any form you want. The average cost to build a fire pit with concrete falls between $150 and $800, including professional installation.
For DIY projects, concrete costs about $4.50 to $27 per premixed bag, depending on the type of concrete you choose.
Stainless steel
Stainless steel is an excellent option if you want a modern-looking fire pit that will last for many years. This material is durable and easy to clean, but it has a higher price tag. The materials and professional installation cost between $250 and $1,200 on average.
Brick pavers
Brick is strong and can withstand high temperatures, making it a good choice for a fire pit. The average cost of a brick fire pit is between $300 and $2,200, including professional installation.
Field stones
Consider building your fire pit out of stone for a classic and elegant look. Stone fire pits come in various colors and styles to match any backyard décor. They’re also very durable, so you won’t have to worry about replacing them any time soon. The average cost of a stone fire pit falls between $350 and $3,000, depending on the type of stone you choose.
Fuel type
The fuel type you choose will determine how much it costs to install and operate your fire pit. For some fuel types, you may need to purchase additional materials, such as a propane tank or gas line.
*Note: In some areas, there may be restrictions on the type of fuel you can use in your fire pit. Be sure to check with the proper authorities before making your purchase.
| Fuel type | Average cost |
| Charcoal | $250 – $350 |
| Propane | $300 – $950 |
| Wood-burning | $300 – $1,000 |
| Electric | $350 – $1,500 |
| Natural gas | $400 – $3,000 |
Charcoal
Fire pits that use charcoal as fuel are typically the least expensive option. The typical range for the cost of a charcoal fire pit is between $250 and $350, including the cost of labor. The downside to charcoal pits is that they take longer to heat up and can be messy to clean.
Propane
The cost of a propane-fueled fire pit typically falls between $300 and $950, depending on the size and features of the unit. While these fire pits are easy to use and produce little smoke, they require a propane tank, which can be costly to purchase and maintain.
Wood-burning
Wood-burning fire pits are the most popular type. Their average cost is $300 to $1,000 in total. The main downside of wood-burning fire pits is that they produce smoke, so you’ll need to be mindful of wind direction when using them.
Electric
Electric fire pits are an excellent option for those who want the ambiance of a fire without the hassle of wood. They are easy to set up, and you can control the intensity of the flames, making them much safer than traditional fire pits. Prices typically range from $350 to $1,500, depending on the size and features of the unit.
Natural gas
Natural gas-fueled fire pits are more expensive than other types, averaging $400 to $3,000 in total. Natural gas fire pits require a gas line, which can be costly to install.
Installation costs
As with any home improvement project, the cost of installing a fire pit will vary depending on the size and complexity of the job. The average price to professionally install a fire pit with a 36-inch diameter ranges from $200 to $900, including materials.
Depending on the type of fire pit you choose, the installation process can be pretty simple or quite complex. A wood-burning fire pit can be installed in a few hours by a handyperson, while a natural gas fire pit may require the assistance of a licensed professional, such as an electrician or a plumber.
A handyperson can charge between $60 and $100 per hour for a fire pit installation. If you need to hire a plumber or electrician to help with the installation, you can expect to pay an additional $45 to $100 per hour for each pro you hire.
Extra features
You can customize your fire pit with a variety of extra features. These accessories will add to the project’s overall cost but can also make your fire pit more enjoyable and functional.
From fire pit screens to built-in seating, add-ons can make your fire pit more user-friendly. In the following table, we’ve outlined some common features and their average costs:
| Item | Average cost |
| Lava rock | $15 – $30 |
| Fire glass | $40 – $100 per pound bag |
| Safety screens | $40 – $250 |
| Fire grates | $50 – $170 |
| Built-in seating area | $1,500 – $2,500 |
| Fire pit ring | $50 – $250 |
In addition to the cost of the fire pit itself, other related services can add to your project’s total cost. For example, if you want to install your fire pit in the backyard, you may need to hire a landscaper to level the ground and prepare the area for installation.
Yard preparation cost
The cost of preparing your yard for fire pit installation will vary depending on the project’s scope. For example, the prep work will be minimal if you already have a concrete patio. However, the cost will be much higher if you want a new patio installed along with your fire pit.
Patio
There are two main types of patio materials: stamped concrete and pavers. Patio installation costs from $2,290 to $6,420 on average, with most homeowners spending around $4,000 for a standard-size patio.
A patio is a smart addition when installing a fire pit. It provides a level surface for your fire pit, protects your yard from heat damage, keeps the fire contained, and adds to the overall value of your home.
Re-slope
The ground must be level to install a fire pit in your yard. If your yard has a slope, you may need to have it leveled before installation. The average cost to re-slope a yard is $1 to $2 per square foot.
Tree and stump removal
Before beginning your fire pit installation, clear away any trees or stumps in the area. Otherwise, they could pose a safety hazard. The cost to remove a tree ranges from $385 to $1,070, depending on the tree’s size.
Stump removal costs an average of $120 to $350, depending on the size and number of stumps. If you have a large tree stump, you should hire a professional to remove it rather than attempting to do it yourself.
Gas line installation
A gas line is necessary for a gas-powered fire pit. Make sure you hire a licensed professional to install the gas line.
The average cost to have a gas line installed for a fire pit is between $14 and $25 per linear foot, depending on the length of the gas line and the complexity of the installation. If your fire pit is far from your home’s natural gas line, you can expect to pay on the higher end of this estimate.
Fire pit vs. outdoor fireplace
Fire pits are typically less expensive than outdoor fireplaces, with most homeowners spending between $250 and $2,200 on a fire pit. On the other hand, outdoor fireplaces usually cost between $1,500 and $20,000 in total.
Outdoor fireplaces produce more heat than fire pits, making them ideal for use as a primary heat source. Fire pits are better suited for outdoor bonfires and are typically used for entertainment.
Pro cost vs. DIY cost
A fire pit can be a great addition to any home and a fun DIY project if you go for a simple wood or charcoal-burning model. The cost of a DIY fire pit varies depending on the materials you use. You can expect to spend around $150 to $300 on materials and tools.
If you’re planning on building a gas or propane fire pit, it’s important to note that these require more expertise to install and should only be attempted by a licensed professional.
However, regardless of which type of fire pit you choose, it’s still important to check with your local municipality to see if there are any permits you need to acquire or regulations you need to follow.
| Tools required | Average cost |
| Fast-set concrete | $6 per 50-pound bag |
| Mortar mix | $7 per 60-pound bag |
| Fire pit ring | $50 – $250 |
| Fire Brick | $0.50 – $0.60 each* |
| Mason trowel | $10 |
| Mixing hoe | $20 |
| Level | $15 |
| Measuring tape | $15 |
| Rake | $17 |
| Shovel | $20 |
| Bucket | $10 |
| Saw (for cutting fire bricks and rebar) | $20 – $30 rental per day |
| Safety goggles | $15 |
*Note: For a 36-inch fire pit, you will need about 80 to 90 fire bricks.
The typical cost to install a standard-size fire pit without professional help ranges from $150 to $300, whereas hiring a handyperson will set you back between $250 and $2,200 in total because of labor costs.
While hiring a professional may be more expensive, doing so will save you time and effort. Additionally, a professional can ensure the fire pit is installed correctly and up-to-code.
| Pro cost | $250 – $2,200 |
| DIY cost | $150 – $300 |
Fire pit kits
You can purchase a fire pit kit if you’re looking for a more DIY-friendly option. Fire pit kits come in various shapes and sizes and typically include everything you need for installation.
Fire pit kits range in price from $400 to $1,300, depending on the size and features of the kit. The main drawback of fire pit kits is that they are usually made of less durable materials, so they may not last as long as a custom-built fire pit.
Fire pit installation cost by location
In general, fire pit installation costs are higher in urban areas than in rural areas due to the increased cost of labor and materials.
Additionally, the cost of permits and regulations can vary widely from one municipality to the next. In some cases, a permit may not be required, while in others, especially in areas with high fire risk, the regulations may be much stricter.
Before beginning any installation, it is essential to check with your local municipality to determine what permits (if any) are required and how much they cost.
FAQ
Your ideal fire pit size depends on its purpose. You will need a larger pit if you plan to use it for large gatherings. The typical size for a fire pit is between 3 and 4 feet in diameter, which can accommodate up to six people.
The type of fuel you use in your fire pit should be based on your personal preference and local regulations. The most common types of fuel are wood, charcoal, and gas.
Fire pits should be vented to allow for proper airflow. Without proper ventilation, the fire will not be able to breathe and will eventually go out.
The base of your fire pit should be made of non-flammable material. This will help to distribute the heat evenly and prevent the fire from damaging the structure. You have a few options for what to use as a base for fire pits, such as sand, lava rock, or fire glass.
Yes, a fire pit will usually add resale value to your home. Many homeowners recoup most of the cost of installation.
When deciding on the location of your fire pit, you should consider accessibility, ventilation, and proximity to flammable objects. The fire pit should be placed in an open area away from trees or shrubs.
Final thoughts
A fire pit is a great addition to any home. It can provide a gathering space for family and friends and increase the value of your home. The national average cost to install a fire pit is $830, with most homeowners spending between $250 and $2,200, including labor and materials.
Before beginning any installation, check with your local municipality to make sure you’re allowed to install a fire pit and find out if you need to get a permit first.
Note: Lawn Love may get a referral fee for matching you with contractors in your area.
Main Image by: WineCountry Media – Flickr – CC BY 2.0
