Water Heater Costs in 2026

Average cost: $800 – $3,500 — based on BLS hourly wage data for Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters (47-2152).

National Average $1,800

Low End $800

High End $3,500

BLS Median Wage $30.46/hr

Water Heater is one of the most common home improvement projects. Costs vary significantly by location, with labor rates tied directly to BLS occupation data for Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters.

🧮 Water Heater Cost Calculator

Get a personalized estimate based on your project size, complexity, and location. Our calculator uses BLS labor rate data ($$30.46/hr median) combined with material cost ranges.

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Your Estimated Range $—

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💡 Based on BLS wage data + national material cost averages. Get 3 local quotes to verify.

Water Heater Costs by State

Select your state to see city-level pricing data:

Alabama $1,665 Alaska $2,547 Arizona $2,021 Arkansas $1,701 California $2,839 Colorado $2,445 Connecticut $2,466 Delaware $2,168 Florida $2,083 Georgia $2,080 Hawaii $3,039 Idaho $1,764 Illinois $2,365 Indiana $1,819 Iowa $1,768 Kansas $1,842 Kentucky $1,636 Louisiana $1,783 Maine $2,114 Maryland $2,553 Massachusetts $2,599 Michigan $1,954 Minnesota $2,041 Mississippi $1,722 Missouri $1,752 Montana $2,026 Nebraska $1,840 Nevada $2,151 New Hampshire $2,253 New Jersey $2,409 New Mexico $1,838 New York $2,593 North Carolina $1,975 North Dakota $1,899 Ohio $1,833 Oklahoma $1,688 Oregon $2,248 Pennsylvania $2,244 Rhode Island $2,564 South Carolina $1,809 South Dakota $1,832 Tennessee $1,687 Texas $2,129 Utah $1,933 Vermont $2,417 Virginia $2,019 Washington $2,497 West Virginia $1,616 Wisconsin $2,035 Wyoming $1,722

Top Water Heater Brands

Home Depot

Lowe's

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does water heater cost on average?

The national average for water heater is $1,800, with most homeowners paying between $800 – $3,500.

What factors affect water heater cost?

Key factors include your location (labor rates vary by metro area), project size, materials chosen, and local permit requirements.

How can I save on water heater costs?

Get at least 3 quotes, consider off-season scheduling, and check for local utility rebates or tax credits where applicable.

Reviewed by

Alex Johnson, P.E.

Mechanical Engineer • 15+ Years Home Repair Experience • Licensed Contractor

All cost data on this page has been verified against BLS and Census Bureau records. See our methodology →

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