Repiping Cost GuideAverage Whole-House Repipe Prices by City
Get accurate repiping cost estimates across all U.S. states. Compare PEX vs copper repiping costs and find city-specific estimates for your area.
Average Repiping Cost in the U.S.
Typical repiping cost ranges depend on the scope of work:
- •Partial repipe: smaller sections of pipe replaced (targeted repairs), typically $1,500 – $5,000
- •Whole-house repipe: full replacement of supply lines (and sometimes drain lines), typically $3,000 – $15,000+
- •Material selection: PEX vs copper vs CPVC, with PEX often being more cost-effective
- •Accessibility: crawlspace, slab, multi-story, finished walls all impact labor costs significantly
Tip: A "repipe" usually refers to water supply lines, not sewer lines. If your main issue is drainage, see drain line replacement cost instead.
Repiping Cost by Material (PEX vs Copper)
PEX Repiping Cost
PEX is often the most cost-effective option due to lower material costs and faster installation. Average PEX repiping costs range from $1,500 – $8,000 for whole-house repipes, depending on home size and accessibility.
Benefits include flexibility, resistance to freezing, and typically faster installation times compared to copper, which can reduce labor costs.
Copper Repiping Cost
Copper typically costs more but can be preferred for durability and local code preferences. Average copper repiping costs range from $5,000 – $15,000+ for whole-house repipes.
Copper pipes are known for longevity and are often required by local building codes in some areas. Material costs are significantly higher than PEX, and installation typically takes longer.
CPVC Repiping Cost
Less common in some markets; pricing can sit between PEX and copper depending on local availability. Average CPVC repiping costs typically range from $3,000 – $10,000.
CPVC offers a middle-ground option between PEX and copper, with moderate material costs and installation complexity. Availability varies by region.
What Affects Repiping Costs?
Costs vary based on a few predictable drivers:
- •Home size & number of fixtures: Larger homes with more bathrooms, kitchen fixtures, and laundry connections require more material and labor time
- •Layout complexity: Multi-story homes, long pipe runs, and home additions can significantly increase repiping costs
- •Foundation type: Slab foundations are often harder to work with than crawlspace or basement access, adding to labor costs
- •Access to pipes: Finished walls, ceilings, and tight spaces increase labor time and may require additional wall repairs
- •Permits & inspections: City requirements can add $200 – $1,000+ depending on local regulations and scope of work
- •Wall repairs: Drywall patching and paint may be separate costs, typically $500 – $2,000+ depending on access points needed
- •Water shutoff & scheduling: Rush jobs or urgent repipes can cost more, while scheduled projects during off-peak times may offer better rates
Signs You May Need a Repipe
Homeowners typically consider repiping after:
- •Frequent leaks or pinhole leaks in multiple locations
- •Rusty or discolored water throughout the home
- •Low water pressure across the entire home
- •Recurring pipe corrosion issues despite repairs
- •Older piping materials (galvanized steel, polybutylene) reaching end-of-life, typically 40-50+ years old
Repiping Cost by City
Plumbing labor rates and permitting differ by location. Select your state to find repiping cost estimates by city.
State Directory
Repiping vs Pipe Repair: What's the Difference?
Understanding when to repair versus repipe can save significant money and avoid recurring issues.
Pipe Repair
Pipe repair makes sense when issues are isolated (one section, one leak). This is typically more cost-effective for single-point failures.
Average cost: $150 – $500 per repair
Full Repipe
Repiping is often more cost-effective long-term when leaks are frequent or the piping is near end-of-life. It prevents recurring repair costs.
Average cost: $3,000 – $15,000+ depending on scope
If you're seeing recurring problems, multiple repairs can exceed the cost of a repipe over time. Consult with a licensed plumber to evaluate your specific situation.
How to Get an Accurate Repiping Quote
For the best quote, be ready to share:
- •Home size (sq ft) and number of bathrooms: Square footage and fixture count directly impact material and labor requirements
- •Foundation type: Slab/crawlspace/basement affects pipe access and installation complexity
- •Pipe material preference: PEX vs copper - your preference or local code requirements
- •Whether walls are finished or accessible: Accessible pipes reduce labor time and wall repair costs
- •Any known leak history or pressure issues: This helps plumbers understand the urgency and potential scope
Local plumbers typically confirm pricing after a walkthrough or inspection. Request quotes from multiple licensed plumbers in your area for accurate comparisons.
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Repiping Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to repipe a house?
Repiping cost depends on home size, accessibility, and pipe material. Average whole-house repiping costs range from $3,000 – $15,000+, with partial repipes typically costing $1,500 – $5,000. City-level pricing is the most accurate way to estimate your specific project.
Is PEX cheaper than copper?
In many markets, PEX is typically cheaper due to lower material cost and faster installation. PEX repiping typically costs $1,500 – $8,000, while copper repiping ranges from $5,000 – $15,000+. However, copper may be required by local codes in some areas.
How long does repiping take?
Many whole-house repipes can be completed in 1–3 days, depending on complexity and accessibility. Simple single-story homes with crawlspace access may take 1-2 days, while multi-story homes with finished walls may require 2-3 days or more.
Does repiping include drywall repair?
Not always. Some contractors include patching; others price it separately. Drywall repair costs typically range from $500 – $2,000+ depending on the number of access points needed. Always clarify what's included in your repiping quote.
Do I need a permit to repipe my home?
Often yes, depending on your city and scope. Permit requirements can impact total cost, typically adding $200 – $1,000+ depending on local regulations. Most cities require permits for whole-house repipes. Check with your local building department and ensure your plumber handles permit applications.