How much does it cost to build a fire pit?

Reviewed by Cristina Miguelez remodeling expert. Written by Fixr.com.

A fire pit creates a natural focal point and gathering place for backyard evenings. From rustic to contemporary, traditional to modern, fire features are an attractive addition to your home’s landscaping. They are a highly sought-after design feature that may attract prospective homeowners.

When selecting or designing a fire pit, the price is determined by the construction material and fuel type. The average cost ranges from $300 to $1,400, with most homeowners paying around $850 for a 36” above-ground propane-burning brick fire pit. However, prices dip as low as $200 to install a 36” above-ground charcoal fire pit. On the other end, it can be as high as $5,000 to install a 48” in-ground natural gas fire pit.

Fire Pit Costs

Average Cost of Installing a Fire Pit by Type

Depending on the size and layout of your yard, you can decide between installing an above-ground or an in-ground fire pit. Both offer a wide range of benefits and setbacks, so it’s important to know exactly what you need for your space. You can expect to pay between $200 and $3,000 based on which type you choose.

Above-Ground Fire Pit

The above-ground built-in fire pit cost is between $200 and $1,500. These make excellent focal points in your yard and provide an easy space to hang out with family and friends. Here, we’re specifically talking about built-in units rather than portable ones. When getting ready to install, make sure it is located away from any structures, bushes, or overhanging branches. Since the fire can reach higher and the embers can fly freely, there is a greater risk of nearby items catching on fire.

In-Ground Fire Pit

In-ground fire pits cost between $1,000 and $3,000 to install. They are safer than their above-ground counterparts in some ways because the fire will be lit below the surface, so there is less risk of it catching surrounding trees, grass, or bushes on fire. However, they pose a greater risk for children and pets. In-ground options tend to be a bit smaller than above-ground models.

Fire Pit Prices by Size

Many different sizes of built-in fire pits are available from which you can choose, though most fall in the 36” to 44” range. That range provides the sweet spot with enough room for a good fire without being overwhelmingly large for the guests that surround it. With that being said, some fire pits can be as small as 20” if they are portable or as large as 48”. Your overall cost depends on which size you choose. You can expect built-in options to range from $200 to $2,000.

Fire Pit Installation Cost by Material

Fire pits can be made out of a wide range of materials that will impact their overall aesthetic and performance. Options range from basic entry-level choices to unique custom materials. Depending on which one you choose, you can expect the outdoor fire pit cost to range between $100 and $300. Let’s take a closer look at each of the options for built-in ground units.

Concrete Fire Pit

Expect to spend about $200 to $1,000 for a 36” concrete block fire pit. Concrete blocks are the entry-level and most affordable building material option. They are a popular choice for do-it-yourselfers due to their weather-resistant nature and inexpensive pricing. Concrete blocks are sturdy, although somewhat bulky and heavy.

Stainless Steel Fire Pit

The cost for a basic 36” stainless steel fire pit ranges from $250 to $1,200. Stainless steel is a popular material for portable fire pits because it offers a wide range of benefits in terms of style, durability, and overall performance. It is lightweight and weather-resistant. It radiates heat well and can be used with multiple fuel types since it has a naturally high melting point. Stainless steel fire pits are rust-resistant and designed to hold up to outdoor use.

Brick Fire Pit

Budget $300 to $2,200 to install a 36” brick fire pit. They coordinate well with traditional brick homes. For the best look, choose a brick that ties into your color scheme but does not exactly match the color of your house. Two types of bricks are used to build a brick fire pit. The inner layer of the pit, which is exposed to direct high-heat conditions, is made of dense thermal-resistant specialty firebricks. The outer layer uses standard brick pavers. Bricks hold heat well after the fire is extinguished, so a brick fire pit continues to radiate heat and keeps you warm well into the night.

Stone Fire Pit

The cost for a 36” stone fire pit averages from $350 to $3,010. Stone offers a natural feel in muted earth-tone colors. The stones are available in various shapes, from rounded to angular. Metamorphic and igneous stones are the best choices for fire pits because of their dense nonpermeable structure, which does not trap moisture. The soft structure and air pockets of sedimentary rock are ill-suited for fire pit construction because they can cause the rocks to explode when exposed to high heat.

Fire Pit Cost by Fuel Type

The second major decision is what fuel type to use. While wood is the most traditional fuel option, there are plenty of other choices, with each fuel type having pros and cons. The best type depends on your situation, personal preferences, and how you plan to use your fire pit. Here are some of the best options and the prices for built-in models.

Charcoal Fire Pit

The average costs for charcoal fire pits range from $250 to $350. They are considered safer than wood since they do not produce sparks. They do not produce smoke to get on your clothes or disturb neighbors. Depending on your location, it may be easier to obtain charcoal than wood fuel. A charcoal fire is generally easier to start than a wood fire.

Although charcoal fires do not generate sparks, they create ash that needs to be removed. Charcoal fires take longer to extinguish than propane or natural gas.

Propane Fire Pit

A propane fire pit is quick and easy to light. They cost between $300 and $950. It produces no smoke, sparks, embers, or ash. Although a propane fire provides less warmth than a wood fire, it burns more efficiently. Depending on the building materials, a propane fire pit may be light and portable so that it can be moved to a new location.

The flames in a propane fire are produced through a fire ring that can clog and must be covered by filler material to simulate a natural fire appearance. Propane fire pits are fueled by a removable propane bottle rather than a permanently attached gas line. The pit must be designed to house and conceal the bottle, which must be removed and refilled when empty.

Wood-burning Fire Pit

Wood-burning fire pits come in many styles, materials, and sizes to fit nearly any outdoor space. They cost between $300 and $1,000. They are quick to install and provide a cozy campfire feel with crackling wood, glowing embers, and the smell of burning wood. They generate a lot of heat, although they do not burn cleanly.

Wood fires produce smoke and potentially dangerous sparks and embers, along with ash that needs to be cleaned up regularly. It takes longer to light a wood fire, and the fire must be fed continually while using the pit. It is necessary to store plenty of wood for fuel.

A wood fire takes a long time to extinguish. These types are subject to more strict city regulations and codes than other pits. Wood-burning fires may be prohibited year-round in some areas or be impacted by seasonal burn bans that do not apply to other types.

Outdoor Electric Fire Pit

An outdoor electric fire pit costs between $350 and $1,500. They have an electric ignition, which facilitate the process of starting fires and controlling the flame. Their versatility and longevity make them a great choice for many homes. They are energy efficient, especially when compared to wood-burning models. Electricity flows to the hot surface ignitor, which will then ignites the pilot light. This process then heats the thermocouple, sending a signal to the gas valve and finally lighting the burner.

Natural Gas Fire Pit Installation

A natural gas fire pit costs between $400 and $3,000. It is highly efficient, producing 99% fewer emissions than wood. It lights quickly and easily by flipping a switch or turning a key. No smoke, sparks, or ashes are produced by natural gas. Homeowners who choose natural gas options enjoy a higher return on investment when reselling their homes.

Although natural gas is very efficient, it does not produce as much heat as wood. The installation costs are the highest of any fuel type since the gas company must run a natural gas supply line to the fire pit. It is not easy to reposition a natural gas model because it requires a dedicated gas line.

Labor Cost to Build a Fire Pit

You can do some aspects of installing a fire pit on your own, but others are best left to the professionals. Landscape companies can be hired to build a fire pit. Expect to pay an average hourly labor rate of $50 to $80. Many of these projects can be completed in less than a day at a labor cost of roughly $340 to $400. It’s a good idea to work with a licensed plumber or electrician if your fuel type needs to be connected to your home’s electricity or gas. The average hourly rate ranges from $45 to $200 for a plumber and $40 to $120 for an electrician.

Run a Gas Line to a Fire Pit

There are several different designs for gas fire pits, but they all need a functional gas line to work. If your fire pit is gas-fueled, you will need to run a gas line to the burners in the bowl. To run the line from an existing house gas line, budget $15 to $25 per linear foot. A 20-linear-foot line extension usually costs $400 to $500.

Cost of a Patio with Fire Pit

When installing a fire pit, homeowners may add or renovate a patio to create a joint patio and fire pit space. Expect to spend between $4,500 and $9,000 for this combination space. The two most commonly used materials for a patio with a fire pit construction are stamped concrete and pavers.

A stamped concrete patio consists of a large pad of poured cement stamped to give it a textured brick or stone appearance. Installing a stamped concrete patio is relatively quick and easy, but maintenance costs are higher. A stamped concrete patio usually costs $15 to $30 per square foot installed.

A paver patio is made up of many individual paver stones set side by side. Pavers take longer to install but have a lower maintenance cost over time. Patio pavers usually cost $16 to $25 per square foot installed.

Built-In Fire Pit Cost by Shape

Fire pits come in all shapes and sizes, and it’s important to find the right fit for your backyard. On top of looking different, each shape offers its own distinct benefits. Depending on what type you want to install, you can expect to pay between $120 and $3,000. Let’s learn a bit more about each.

Hexagonal

Installing a hexagonal fire pit costs between $120 and $1,000. Most of them are made out of either steel or stone, but you can choose from various materials to match your yard’s aesthetic. With this shape, it is easy to fit more people around the fire, making it a great choice if you host larger gatherings. It also promotes an even distribution of heat.

Round

It costs between $150 and $1,500 to install a round fire pit. They are extremely versatile and can be a great fit for every yard. Much like hexagonal ones, you can fit several people around the fire with equal exposure to the heat. These designs are much easier to move around naturally, which encourages connectivity between guests. Since round models are often less about aesthetics and more about functionality, you can use various materials depending solely on whether you prefer stone, brick, metal, or another material.

Square

Square fire pits cost between $165 and $2,800, depending on what type you get. They are often best used in more formal spaces due to their elegant aesthetic. However, this takes away from the warm, cozy feeling often associated with sitting around a campfire. The best materials to use for square fire pits include slate, granite, and tile.

Rectangular

On average, it costs between $185 and $3,000 to install a rectangular fire pit. Much like square models, these offer a more elegant, luxurious look to your space. Rectangular fire pits feature more traditional options like stone or brick and sport a more modern look with steel finishes. Either way, they make great additions to any size backyard. Due to their shape, you most likely won’t fit as many people around them. They will be better used for smaller gatherings.

Preparation Work

Before you install a fire pit, it’s important to prepare your yard. They must be built on a level location. If you need to level or re-slope your yard before installation, expect a cost of between $500 and $2,500. You will need to remove any trees or shrubs that are in the general vicinity of where the fire pit will go. The cost to remove a tree ranges from $400 to $900. Stump removal costs from $200 to $700. You should consider adding a patio or stones beneath your fire pit. Otherwise, you risk ruining your grass. The cost to install a full patio with a fire pit ranges from $4,500 to $9,000.

Pros and Cons of Fire Pits

Installing a fire pit on your property is a home improvement project that has pros and cons. It provides warmth, ambiance, and a dedicated outdoor entertainment area. It can update your landscaping and encourage you, your family, and your guests to spend more time outdoors. Since you can sit around a fire pit, you can accommodate a large group of people. It is a fairly cost-effective way to decorate your yard while taking up as much or as little space as you need. Fire pits are easy to maintain and are fully customizable, which means you can enhance your yard’s aesthetic. Whether you choose to install a wood-burning or a gas-powered one, you can enjoy the benefits of inexpensive fuel sources.

However, a fire pit comes with additional costs, logistics, and safety considerations. It takes up dedicated space in your landscape, and you may have to consult local regulations on the installation and use of residential fire pits. Fire pits present a potential fire hazard. If you have young children or pets, you must plan to keep them safe. It’s also important to be aware of any allergies or sensitivities to smoke as both can become an issue without any countermeasures in place. Another potential con for wood-burning options is the time it takes to start and then clean up afterward. While this isn’t as much of a problem with gas fire pits, they still come with their complications. For starters, you’ll need to install a gas line and clean around it. The initial cost is usually higher than a wood-burning one.

Fire Pit Kits

A fire pit kit offers a hybrid approach between the prefabricated out-of-the-box options from a big-box retailer and a completely custom-built installation. Basically, it is a fire pit you can create yourself without looking for all the materials you need. Think of it as a blueprint for the final product. Fire pit kits usually come with a strong galvanized steel frame and fuel hookups, if applicable. Some kits include the overlay material, while others require purchasing it separately. Finding a kit that fits your fire pit vision saves build time and labor costs. Expect to pay between $130 and $2,000 for a 36” fire pit kit.

Add-On Costs

When installing a fire pit, you should consider adding some features to enhance its style and performance. Some features are purely aesthetic, while others make your space safer and more functional. Depending on what you want to add to your project, you can expect to pay between $20 and $3,000.

Lava Rock

Lava rock, or basalt, is an extremely beneficial addition to any gas fire pit. They generally cost between $20 and $50 per 10 pounds and come in several colors, such as red, brown, and black, which provides a natural-looking aesthetic. On top of its visual benefits, it also is extremely functional. It is a porous material that protects all the components of the burner from the elements and protects the gas burner from exposure to the flame. It provides an even heat source across the surface of your fire pit.

Fire Glass

The average cost for a ten-pound bag of fire glass is $30 to $100. Fire glass is the name for the sparkly, reflective bits of tempered glass that are often used to disperse heat, hide the fire ring, and enhance the visual appearance of propane and natural gas fire pits. Fire glass comes in many colors. Its many reflective surfaces capture the light of the fire.

Safety Screens

Safety screens cost between $40 and $300. A metal safety screen keeps sparks in and children and pets out. Safety screens reduce the risk of accidental fire spread in dry conditions and protect clothes and patio cushions from getting burnt by tiny embers. Safety screens can be as simple in design as a standard one-piece fine stainless steel mesh dome or as elaborate as a custom-sized hinging design with multiple panels.

Fire Pit Ring

On average, a fire pit ring costs between $50 and $250. It is used to line the inner wall of a fire pit to prevent the material from drying out. This preserves the look and structure of your fire pit. Most materials used in construction are not designed to withstand constant exposure to heat. A fire pit ring helps with that. While they are not always a necessity, there are some cases where you should consider inserting one. For example, if your fire pit will be a permanent addition to your backyard, you should add a ring.

Fire Grates

The average cost for a fire grate is $50 to $280. A fire grate lays on the bottom of your fire pit. When used with a wood-burning fire pit, a grate elevates the wood and promotes enhanced airflow. This helps the fire burn more evenly and cleanly. As the wood burns, the pieces fall through the grate and onto the pit floor, serving as an extra heat source. Fire grates protect the base from any heat damage and help hold the logs in place.

Fire Pit Seating Area

The average cost for a built-in seating area is between $1,500 and $3,000. Rather than using free-standing chairs to gather around your fire pit, opt for a built-in seating configuration. The seating area is made of the same construction materials as your fire pit and is positioned 40 to 48 inches away.

Fire Pit Seating Ideas

Fire pits are customizable, which means you can find the perfect fit for your unique space. On top of designing the fire pit itself, it is important to think about how you want to arrange the seating area around it. There are endless ways to go about this process to create an aesthetic that is both stylish and functional.

Enclosed seating is a great way to make your space feel more intimate. Additionally, you can make sure everyone can enjoy the same amount of heat coming from the fire. Built-in seating is another great option as you’ll never have to worry about dragging seats into your yard. With that being said, some people like to use portable chairs. With this setup, you’ll be able to adjust your space to any situation.

One common idea is to leave room around your fire pit for portable chairs. Arranging your seating this way is beneficial for many reasons. You can add or take away as many spots as you need, and you can position them to adjust with the fire as it changes. You can also keep the chairs safe and dry by moving them under cover when they are not in use. Plenty of different chair styles are available from which you can choose to match your space’s aesthetic, including sling chairs, Adirondack chairs, or simple folding chairs.

Another great option is to use couches, furniture sets, or benches around your fire pit. This way, you can offer a range of seating options for your guests and create a comfortable space for individuals and couples alike. Furniture can be rearranged to meet your needs and your aesthetic, making it a great option if you often host different numbers of guests. You can also use a combination of built-in benches and moveable furniture to offer a sense of pattern and consistency.

Integrated circular fire pit seating is an easy option that requires little work or thought on your end. The seats will already be in place and ready for your guests to arrive. Consider making an open circle with your built-in seating. That way, you can create a feeling of openness and leave extra space for people to pull up chairs if need be.

Eco-Friendly Fire Pit

What makes a fire pit eco-friendly? The fuel that goes inside it. Eco-friendly, gas-powered fire pits cost between $900 and $3,800, whereas wood-burning ones cost between $500 and $1,300. If you’re looking for an easy way to reduce your carbon footprint while enjoying a fire in your backyard, there are a handful of different fuel types from which you can choose. Two that stand out include recycled wood and eco-kindling.

While recycled wood still produces CO2 from the smoke, it ends up being carbon neutral since the materials would have ended up in a landfill rather than being turned into wood. Plus, recycled wood holds less moisture, which means less smoke in general.

Eco-kindling is another great option for your fire pit. It is made out of wood pellets dipped in wax made from renewable food waste. This type of kindling lights very quickly, provides low moisture content, and produces little smoke.

Generally speaking, natural gas fire pits are better for the environment than their wood-burning counterparts. This is because gas produces fewer emissions than wood.

Fire Pit Maintenance

A big part of having a fire pit is keeping up with regular cleaning and maintenance. Depending on how often you use it, you should plan to do a deep clean every six months or so. You should take different steps to keep it in good shape throughout the year, depending on what it is made of and what type of fuel it uses.

If you have a gas fire pit, you should routinely clean out debris, twigs, and leaves to ensure the bottom of the pit is clear. If you need to wipe down the interior, take a cloth with a little bit of soap and water on it, then follow it up with a dry cloth. Wood-burning models are a bit more straightforward as you can easily hose down the interior.

Since many outdoor fire pits are built into the patio, it is important to keep the bases clean. For stone or brick fire pits, use a solution of 1:9 muriatic acid and water and scrub the inside and outside with a durable brush. After a few days, you can add masonry sealant to make cleaning easier in the future.

If you have a steel or copper fire pit, you can use hot, soapy water to wash the dirt away. Make sure to dry it thoroughly, so it doesn’t rust. Cast iron can be cleaned with hot water and a piece of steel wool. As with steel and copper bases, make sure it is completely dry afterward.

To make cleaning and maintenance easier down the road, use a cover when your fire pit is not in use. It is also a good idea to use seasoned wood because it creates less buildup over time. When it comes to putting a fire out, it is best to let it burn out on its own. That way, the fire pit can cool off naturally. If you change the temperature too quickly, you risk cracking or marring the base.

Fire Pit vs Outdoor Fireplace

When deciding what type of heating feature to add to your yard, you may find yourself choosing between a fireplace or a fire pit. The two are similar in many ways but also hold distinct differences in terms of aesthetics, functionality, and price.

Fire pits are versatile and offer more space for family and friends because there is seating on all sides. They can be placed in nearly any space in your yard, though you should avoid getting them close to any structures. They cost between $300 and $1,400.

Outdoor fireplaces are better for smaller gatherings of friends because you generally sit in front of rather than around them. For this reason, they take up less space and can be installed on the edge of a wall. They are generally more expensive than a fire pit, though the cost range is rather large as it depends heavily on the materials and fuel used, the size, and whether it is store-bought or a custom build. On average, the cost to install an outdoor fireplace ranges from $3,000 to $10,000.

If you’re not sure which one you would rather have in your space, think about it this way: In general, fire pits are more interactive, whereas fireplaces are made strictly for ambiance.

Fire Pit vs Fire Table

If you have considered adding a fire pit to your backyard, you may have also seen information about fire tables. While the two terms are often used interchangeably, there are some key differences between them. For starters, fire tables usually feature a base and a top design, whereas a fire pit generally only has a base.

Fire pits are usually larger, which means you can accommodate more people around the fire. They simulate the experience of sitting around a campfire and provide a great deal of warmth throughout a large area. They can be powered either by wood or gas, depending on your wants and needs, and cost between $300 and $1,400 to install.

Fire tables are gas-powered and are made for smaller, more intimate gatherings. They are more versatile in that they can double as an outdoor eating space. Fire tables are more expensive to install, but they pay off in the long run when it comes to energy savings. It costs between $700 and $4,000 to install a fire table.

Enhancement and Improvement Costs

Patio Enclosure

Your yard can be a great place to entertain guests or relax with the family, especially with the addition of a fire pit. You may also consider installing a patio enclosure to make your space even more accessible regardless of the weather. Additionally, a covered patio will make your space more aesthetically pleasing and comfortable. Installing a covered patio costs between $4,000 and $12,000, depending on the size, style, and materials used.

Ambiance Lighting

Many times, you will be using your fire pit in the evening and well into the night. To make your space more enjoyable and accessible, consider adding ambient lighting around your backyard. This costs between $2,000 and $4,500. Strings of light, torches, and light posts are all great choices to use to make your surroundings safer without negatively impacting the mood or overall aesthetic of your space.

Additional Considerations and Costs

• Regulations. Before building a fire pit, check your local regulations. In many areas, they must be located at least 10 to 15 feet away from your home, other buildings, and combustible materials.
• Location. Choose an open area for your fire pit installation. Avoid placing it under trees, an overhanging roof, a patio cover, or other similarly flammable objects.
• Burn restrictions. Before each use of your fire pit, check if your city or county has any current burn restrictions in place that would ban its use.
• Safety precautions. Have a plan in place to keep your fire from getting away from you. As a safety precaution, have a full bucket of water, pressurized water hose, or fire extinguisher near your fire pit each time you use it.
• Building materials. Do not use flammable building materials to construct your fire pit. Keep flammable items like clothing and patio furniture away from the flames.
• Adult supervision. Ensure an adult is tending to the fire at all times. Do not allow children or pets to play near the fire pit.
• Putting down the fire. When it is time to extinguish your fire, ensure that it is completely out per the manufacturer’s instructions and the pit is cool before leaving it unattended.
• Covers. Get a protective cover to protect your fire pit from rust, moisture, and pests. This makes it easier to start a fire once you’re ready and extends the life of the fire pit. They generally cost between $20 and $200.
• Cleaning your gutters. This may sound strange but keeping your gutters clean is an important part of safely using your fire pit. Embers can easily get carried in the wind and catch fire on anything dry, including the debris that builds up in your gutters.