Type Comparison
Drilled vs Driven vs Dug Wells
The three main types of residential wells differ significantly in cost, depth capability, water quality, and lifespan. Here is a detailed comparison to help you choose. Last verified April 2026.
| Feature | Drilled Well | Driven Well | Dug Well |
|---|---|---|---|
| Depth Range | 100–500+ ft | 25–50 ft | 10–30 ft |
| Cost Range | $5,000–$50,000 | $1,500–$5,000 | $1,000–$4,000 |
| Average Cost | $12,000–$18,000 | $2,500–$4,000 | $2,000–$3,000 |
| Lifespan | 30–50 years | 15–25 years | 10–20 years |
| Best For | Most residential applications, especially where water table is deep or geology is rocky | Soft-soil areas with high water tables, rural properties needing irrigation or backup water | Very rural properties with high water tables and limited budgets, often for non-potable use |
Drilled Well
100–500+ ft deep | $12,000–$18,000 average | 30–50 years lifespan
Advantages
- Deepest reach, accesses confined aquifers
- Best water quality, less contamination risk
- Highest flow rates (5–25+ GPM)
- Most reliable year-round supply
- Works in nearly all geological conditions
Disadvantages
- Most expensive upfront cost
- Requires professional drilling rig
- May need permits and inspections
- Longer installation time (1–3 days)
Best for: Most residential applications, especially where water table is deep or geology is rocky
Driven Well
25–50 ft deep | $2,500–$4,000 average | 15–25 years lifespan
Advantages
- Low cost, can be DIY in soft soil
- Quick installation (hours to 1 day)
- Simple technology, fewer things to break
- Good for supplemental water use
Disadvantages
- Shallow depth limits water quality
- Only works in soft soil (sand, gravel)
- Higher contamination risk from surface
- Lower flow rates (1–5 GPM)
- More susceptible to drought
Best for: Soft-soil areas with high water tables, rural properties needing irrigation or backup water
Dug Well
10–30 ft deep | $2,000–$3,000 average | 10–20 years lifespan
Advantages
- Lowest cost option
- Can be hand-dug in accessible areas
- Large diameter stores more water
- Easy to maintain and inspect
Disadvantages
- Shallowest, highest contamination risk
- Most affected by seasonal water table changes
- Lowest flow rates, may run dry in summer
- Requires careful sealing to prevent contamination
- Not permitted in many jurisdictions
Best for: Very rural properties with high water tables and limited budgets, often for non-potable use
Well Type FAQ
What is the best type of well for a home?
For most residential applications, a drilled well is the best choice. It reaches deeper aquifers for better water quality and year-round reliability, produces higher flow rates (5-25+ GPM), and lasts 30-50 years. While it costs more upfront ($5,000-$50,000), the long-term reliability and water quality make it the standard for primary household water supply.
What is the cheapest type of well to install?
Dug wells are the cheapest at $1,000-$4,000, but they are shallow (10-30 ft), have the highest contamination risk, and may not be permitted in many areas. Driven wells ($1,500-$5,000) are a better budget option if you have soft soil and a high water table. However, for a primary drinking water supply, the higher cost of a drilled well is generally the better investment.