Asked By: Leo from Chesapeake, VA
A: The average cost of a koi pond build varies considerably based on a few factors, but you can expect to spend at least $1,000 on equipment and materials for a small pond. Large, extravagant koi ponds can cost $50,000 or more, depending on the complexity.
Koi Pond Cost Estimates: Installation & Maintenance
A DIY koi pond costs much less than paying for a professional koi pond installation. The more you can accomplish on your own, the less you’ll spend on labor. With a shovel and a few weekends of hard work, you can get most of the excavation and construction done yourself.
After digging the hole for your future koi pond installation, you’ll need supplies like pond liner and underlayment, filtration, pumps, and plumbing. If you are on a tight budget, you might search for sales and second-hand items to save money, but you must ensure all parts are functional and compatible. Alternatively, our complete pond kits are an inexpensive way to purchase all the necessary equipment with no guesswork.
After your pond is fully installed and operational, there are koi pond maintenance costs you should consider. Maintaining a pond can cost next to nothing if you create a balanced, self-sustaining ecosystem with pond-cleaning plants, natural beneficial bacteria, aeration, and an efficient pump and filtration system.
The cost to run a koi pond pump can be as little as five dollars per month when you install an ultra-efficient unit. However, operating a powerful pump connected to multiple water features could cost over $70 per month.
Koi pond maintenance costs increase when there are too many fish, too few plants, and complex water features with high water flow. By staying on top of routine cleaning and maintenance, you can avoid expensive chemical treatments and remedies to keep your pond water clear.
Pond-Building Tips & Advice
If you are ready to start building your dream koi pond, contact us online or by phone at 866-POND-HELP for personalized advice.
Read more pond-building tips below:
Types of Ponds & Water Features
What to Know About Building a Backyard Pond
Last Updated: March 4, 2025