Page Contents
Quick Answer
The cost to build a gas fire pit ranges from $500-$5,000 or more, with most people spending $1,500-$3,000 on average for a contractor-built gas fire pit kit, materials, labor and installation. Gas fire pits use propane or natural gas to produce flames, providing ambiance and warmth without the mess of wood. Prices vary based on the size, materials and features.
What Factors Affect the Cost of a Gas Fire Pit?
Several factors affect the overall cost of a gas fire pit:
Size of the Fire Pit
Larger fire pits that can accommodate more people cost more. A small 20-inch round fire pit kit may start around $500. A 60-inch gas fire table to seat 4+ people may cost $2,000-$4,000 or more.
Materials
Concrete, stone, porcelain or tile lined pits range from $1,500-$2,500. High-end materials like copper, cast stone or engineered stone cost $3,000-$5,000 or more. The mantle or surround also impacts cost.
Fuel Type
Propane fire pits are less expensive, around $500-$2,000. Natural gas pits that connect to your home’s gas line are $1,500-$4,000. Converting a propane pit to natural gas runs around $500-$1,000.
Features
More complex fire features with multiple burners, lighting, media components or automation drive up cost. For example, adding weather-resistant covers, ignition systems, flame effects or audio systems adds a few hundred to a few thousand dollars.
Labor
Professional installation by a landscaper or contractor averages $50-$150 per hour. Complex gas line connections may cost $500-$1,500.
| Fire Pit Type | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Prefabricated gas fire pit kit | $500-$2,000 |
| Custom built-in gas fire pit | $1,500-$4,000 |
| Gas fire table | $2,000-$5,000 |
| Stone or brick surround | $500-$2,000 |
| Gas fire column | $1,000-$2,500 |
| Labor and installation | $500-$1,500 |
Gas Fire Pit Cost Factors
Here are some details on the factors that influence the cost to build a gas fire pit:
Fire Pit Size
Size has a major impact on gas fire pit costs. Larger fire pits cost more due to needing more materials, more gas line capacity, and more decorative elements like stone or tile.
- Small fire pits (20-40 inches) – $500-$1,500
- Medium fire pits (45-50 inches) – $1,500-$3,000
- Large fire pits (60-72+ inches) – $3,000-$5,000
For a gathering area, experts recommend a minimum 4 foot diameter fire pit.
Portable propane fire pits like fire bowls or tables can also be purchased for $300-$2,000 based on size and features.
Construction Materials
The main fire pit materials include:
- Concrete – $1,500-$2,500 installed. Durable but prone to cracking.
- Stone – $2,500-$4,500 installed. Natural stone or veneers like stacked stone, granite, marble. Has natural beauty.
- Metal – $1,500-$3,000. Steel, copper or aluminum. Quick heat but can discolor.
- Tile – $2,500-$3,500 installed. Fire-rated ceramic, porcelain or glass tile for heat resistance.
- Refractory material – $2,000-$4,000. Withstands intense heat. Used for custom designs.
The mantle or surround also impacts costs. Stone, brick, or concrete surrounds average $30-$50 per square foot installed.
Gas Type
The gas source affects the fire pit expense:
- Propane – Less expensive, starting around $500-$2,000. Uses a propane tank or line buried near the fire pit.
- Natural Gas – More expensive, $1,500-$4,000. Hooks directly to your home’s gas line, providing permanent fuel.
Converting a propane fire pit to natural gas costs around $500-$1,000 for the hookup and labor.
Extra Features
Optional features that increase gas fire pit costs include:
- Multiple burners – For larger flames.
- Fire media – Like lava rock or glass pebbles for $50-$200.
- Electronic ignition – For push button start, $100-$300.
- Weather cover – $200-$500 for a cover that protects the fire pit when not in use.
- Lighting – $100-$300 for accent lighting around the pit.
- Automation – $300-$1,000 for features like remote control operation.
- Sound system – $300-$1,000 to add speakers and audio.
- Adjustable flame – $150-$300 to control the flame height.
The more features included, the more the fire pit will cost. Carefully decide which ones will get the most use or provide the most value.
Labor Costs
A contractor may charge around $50-$150 per hour for fire pit installation. Complex gas line connections could cost $500-$1,500.
Building a permanent gas fire pit requires specialized skills for the gas lines. Have a qualified professional perform this work.
Some ways to reduce labor costs:
- Purchase a pre-built gas fire pit kit that only needs assembly.
- Choose a propane fire pit that doesn’t need gas lines run.
- Do preparatory work like clearing the area yourself.
Should I Build or Buy a Gas Fire Pit?
You can build your own gas fire pit, purchase a kit or buy a pre-built fire pit. Here’s how the options compare:
| Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Build your own custom fire pit |
|
|
| Purchase a fire pit kit |
|
|
| Buy a pre-built fire pit |
|
|
If you’re reasonably handy and want to save money, purchasing a fire pit kit is a good compromise. Kits provide the materials and plans, so you can handle the installation yourself.
For a fully custom design with extra features, work with a professional contractor for installation.
How to Save Money on Your Gas Fire Pit
There are several ways to save on your gas fire pit project:
- Shop end of season sales for the best discounts on materials.
- Purchase a small to medium-sized fire pit kit rather than a custom job.
- Choose concrete or stone veneer instead of natural stone.
- Look for a basic fire pit design without lots of fancy add-ons.
- Opt for propane instead of natural gas to avoid gas line installation costs.
- Do your own preparation and cleanup work instead of paying the contractor for it.
- Check for rebates on upgrading to a natural gas fire feature.
Selecting a smaller fire pit size and keeping the design straightforward are two of the most effective ways to control costs. Focus on the essential features you need, and avoid upgrades that won’t get much use.
Conclusion
Building a gas fire pit costs $500-$5,000 on average, with most homeowners spending $1,500-$3,000 to have a contractor install a fire pit kit with a stone surround and a few upgrades. Key factors determining gas fire pit costs include the size, construction materials, gas type, special features and labor. Opting for a smaller propane fire pit kit without too many fancy add-ons provides an affordable option for around $1,500-$2,000. Carefully evaluate your needs and budget to select the right gas fire pit option.