Written by

Tom Grupa

January 11, 2024

Cost to Run a Gas Line

The average cost to run a gas line is $360 to $740, whereas complex jobs are $1,000+. New gas line installation costs $12 to $25 per linear foot, including labor, materials, piping, and permits. Costs depend on the distance from the gas supply, complexity, and type of pipe used.

• Converting from electric to natural gas or propane, or installing gas appliances will always require new pipes.

• Final costs depend on if you have existing gas lines in place or need new gas lines installed from the gas supply to the house.

Gas Line Installation Costs

New gas line installation from the gas supply and throughout the house typically costs $1,300 to $3,500 with most homeowners spending an average of $2,000, or $20 per linear foot. Costs mainly depend on the number of appliances and the distance from the gas supply.

Natural Gas Installation By Appliances

For a small house that doesn't require outdoor pipes, costs are as little as $710, whereas extremely complex projects with high connection fees, long laying distances, and high-end materials cost up to $9,500.

A gas line will first need to be run from the street to the house, a meter installed, followed by gas lines installed inside the home from the meter to the new appliances. Costs can vary dramatically based on the complexity of the installation and what size pipe and connections each appliance needs.

For example, digging a trench for the pipe in a straight line is more cost-efficient than Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) which is required to create a tunnel when adding new lines under a driveway, sidewalk, road, or other obstacles.

Labor Cost To Install Gas Line

The average labor cost to install a gas line is $3 to $11 per linear foot depending on the diameter of the pipe and job complexity. Licensed plumbers charge between $45 to $150 per hour or $100 an hour on average to place new gas lines.

Hiring a licensed master plumber to install home gas lines is recommended. Many states require a licensed professional because of the risks associated with connecting gas to a home. An apprentice plumber will charge much less, but may only be suitable for minor pipe repairs.

Gas Pipe Installation Material Costs

The average cost of materials for installing or repairing gas lines is $1 to $10 per linear foot or $4 per foot on average, which includes piping, connectors, fittings, and mounting hardware. Pricing depends on the type, diameter, number of turns, and location (interior, exterior, underground).

Different types of pipe include flexible corrugated stainless steel tubing (CCST), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), galvanized steel, black iron, and copper. 

Underground Gas Line Installation Cost Per Foot

The average cost for underground gas line installation is $12 per linear foot, with prices ranging from $10 to $25 per foot which includes trenching, shaping, backfill, labor, and materials. However, more complicated gas line installations can cost as high as $75 per foot.

Costs vary based on how much work is required. Preparing the site, digging, the trench, and filling the trench can be both time-consuming and complicated. Underground gas line installation requires piping that meets specific requirements, and this generally costs more than non-underground projects.

Inspections are required in most states to ensure piping is at the required depth. For example, California has strict regulations regarding underground gas line installation because of earthquakes and other natural disasters. Piping should be at least 18" below ground for safer areas and 24" for locations at higher risk of external damage.

Black Iron and Galvanized Steel Gas Pipe

Installing black iron gas pipe averages $4.90 per linear foot, while installing galvanized steel averages between $2.20 and $9.30 per linear foot. Both are more labor-intensive than PVC and HDPE piping.

• Black iron pipes are durable, making them ideal for the transportation of both natural and propane gas from the street or the tank to a home. Black iron also has high heat resistance.

• Galvanized steel pipes are ideal for irrigation and water supply lines, but they are typically not used in new construction today. They are more likely to be found in older homes built before the 1970s.

PVC and HDPE Piping

PVC piping installation costs $0.20 to $1.60 per linear foot, compared to the average installation cost of HDPE of $1 per linear foot. Both are considered better alternatives than metal pipes for low-pressure gas lines.

• PVC piping can be reliable for 50 years once the initial settling occurs in the first two decades.

• HDPE is more durable and can withstand higher temperatures than PVC. HDPE piping can absorb shockwaves; however, HDPE piping must be about 2.5 times thicker to handle the same pressure as PVC.

Cost To Run Natural Gas Line From Street To House

Installing a natural gas line from the street to your house costs $0 to $2,000, with most homeowners spending $980 for an average of 49 linear feet of connected pipe. The average cost is $12 to $25 per linear foot, while some gas companies offer free installation depending on the distance.

The house’s location, obstructions, the distance from your home to the main line, and local building codes can significantly increase costs, though they typically don't exceed $2,000. In many cases, the gas company installs, owns, and maintains the gas line and gas meter up to your home.

Ask your gas company about these potential fees:

• New account fee

• Callout fee

• Tap fee

• Permit Fee

• Extension fee

• Final inspection

Connecting To A Gas Main Cost

The typical gas main installation costs $200 to $300. To connect to a gas main line, the cost has many variables. Contact your gas supplier and ask about application fees, initial inspection costs, and a connection fee.

Free or Cheap Main Gas Line Installations

Free or cheap main gas line installs are offered by some gas companies as well. Before contacting your gas supplier, get details on the following to see if you qualify for a free or low-cost installation.

• Distance of Installation – Short distances up to 100 feet with a connection to a gas-run heating system may be free of charge and include the gas line and meter.

• Multiple Houses – In rural areas, connection costs can be split or reduced by having multiple houses connected at one time.

• Edge of property – Rural areas sometimes offer connection to the edge of a property for free, though the other costs apply to the rest of the property.

Gas Shut-Off Valve Installation

Gas shut-off valve installation costs $50 to $140 per appliance, including labor and materials. Materials cost $15 to $50 per valve, while labor runs $45 to $150 per hour. A shut-off valve is required to shut off the gas to the home whenever an appliance needs repair or for emergencies.

The total cost for a gas line shut-off valve installation in an earthquake zone averages $200 to $600 per appliance. Each flexible earthquake shut-off valve costs $100 to $300, and the average labor cost to install one is also $100 to $300.

Some gas suppliers will install a valve at no cost. Before scheduling an installation, ask your gas supplier about installation costs.

New Gas Meter Install Cost

The average cost for a new residential gas meter is $200 to $300, while installation labor adds $100 to $300. Many times you won't have to pay anything because gas companies own, maintain, and install the lines and meters up to your home.

Installation and replacement costs are often comparable, though replacement typically will not require additional charges, such as application fees. New meters must meet regulations and code requirements for their placement, and gas providers may require a unique meter for their services, limiting your choices.

Connecting A Propane Tank To Gas Line

Connecting a propane tank to a gas line or yard line is typically free, or about $75 if you're currently leasing or plan to buy a tank from a gas supply service and purchase a minimal amount of gas annually.

Check your lease agreement for the exact hookup prices. A plumber or propane tank professional will use copper or polyethylene tubing to hook up a new propane tank line in just a few minutes.

• Purchasing and installing a propane tank costs $400 to $2,800. Buying a propane tank requires more upfront costs, but it's more cost-efficient over time.

• Leasing a propane tank costs $50 to $200 per year from a local gas company. Most companies install leased tanks for free with a minimum purchase of gas annually.

New Gas Pipe Installation Costs

People typically update their appliances from electric to natural gas because it's more cost-efficient. After converting, savings of up to 30% have been reported. In addition to savings for utility costs, some utility companies offer rebates to install gas appliances.

A full conversion from electric to natural gas appliances will be more expensive if you do not currently have gas. New costs will include rerouting from an existing gas line, in addition to the other installation costs. The basic cost to install one new appliance is between $1,300 to $1,700.

Each appliance in an earthquake area requires an earthquake shut-off valve, with an average cost of between $200 and $600 per appliance.

Cost to Install Gas Line for Kitchen Stove

The average cost to install a gas line for a kitchen stove is $15 to $25 per linear foot. Total costs range from $200 to $1,000+ depending on the length of piping needed to connect to the main gas supply, which typically averages 30'.

Cost To Convert Electric Stove To Gas

The cost to convert an electric stove to gas averages $400 for an existing gas line. Converting to a gas stove requires less energy. The gas burners require less time to heat and cool, as well as cook the food more evenly.

Cost To Run Gas Line For Grill or Fire Pit

Running a gas line to a grill or fire pit costs $20 per foot, or $200 to $700 on average depending on the distance from the main gas line. Installing a natural gas line for a grill costs $100 to $600, while a fire pit that's out in the yard costs $300 to $1,400.

Cost To Run Gas Line To Dryer

The cost to run a gas line to a dryer is $150 to $1,000, with an average cost of $350, which includes connecting the new line to the dryer. Gas dryers are more cost-efficient than electric dryers; however, the initial cost of a gas dryer is often higher, including the cost of the dryer.

Cost To Install Gas Line For Fireplace

The total cost to install a gas fireplace including the gas line is $2,300 to $4,000. If you have already purchased the fireplace, expect to spend $12 to $25 per linear foot to run a line from the manifold. Once installed, operational costs for a natural gas fireplace run $0.70 per hour, while using propane costs $2.30 per hour.

Water Heater and Furnace Gas Line Installation

Installing a gas line to power a water heater and furnace typically costs $350 to $600. In addition, furnace replacement costs $2,000 to $5,400. If you're upgrading from electric to gas, water heater installation costs $600 to $3,100 for the unit and labor.

Several other costs may need to be covered, including a permit and inspection from $50 to $300.

Cost To Add Gas Line To Pool Heater

Installing a new gas line for a pool heater costs $700 to $1,400, including the connection and new gas line. The connection alone costs $170 to $300, excluding applicable callout fees.

Pool heaters are an ideal way of quickly heating a pool for a short time. They maintain the pool’s temperature better than other types of heaters. This makes gas pool heaters ideal for pools that are not regularly used.

Generator Gas Line Installation

A whole house generator costs $6,000 to $11,000 installed, including the cost of the gas line. The cost varies based on the type and size of the generator and how much of the house is connected.

Cost To Run Gas Line To Garage

The average cost for running a gas line to the garage is $8 to $16 per linear foot. The price is comparable to running an outside gas line. The real variable is the distance to the garage.

Gas Line Leak Repair Costs

Gas leak repairs cost $6 to $7 per linear foot or $75 to $150 per hour. Where the leak occurs determines how much the repairs cost. A gas pipe repair to a single appliance cost $150 to $650, depending on the distance, location, and pipe material.

• Excavation: If the pipe is difficult to access, it can cost $1,000 to $5,000 to get to the leak due to excavation costs.

• Drywall: Leaks in pipes in the walls can make the cost go up because of drywall repair costs.

• Testing: A preventative check on your gas lines costs $50 to $75 a visit, and it should include a pressure test to check for leaks accurately. Testing could save you a lot of money.

Gas companies generally do not charge for the initial visit as their priority is to stop any gas leaks or problems. Your gas bills may be higher than usual if you have a small leak.

Gas Line Replacement Cost

The typical gas line replacement cost is $8 per linear foot. The minimum gas pipe replacement cost is usually around $300, and about $700 on average. Companies may charge a flat rate or a minimum charge. Replacing gas pipes in an entire home costs $3,000 to $7,000.

Gas Line Pressure Test Cost

A gas line pressure test is covered in a plumbers service call charge or a flat rate of $75 to $150. Some areas require a thorough 12- to 24-hour test, which costs $150 to $500.

A standard pressure test takes 15 to 30 minutes. The gas valves to all appliances will be shut off, and a plumber removes the main line cap to check the pressure with a gauge.

Cost to Cap a Gas Line

The cost to cap a gas line is covered by a plumbers callout fee of $50 to $200 and takes 30 minutes. For multiple gas lines that need capping, expect to spend $25 to $90 per cap. Capping a gas line avoids leaks when switching to electric or removing an appliance.

Cost to Install a Drip Leg

The average cost to install a drip leg is $75 to $150, which is a plumber's minimum charge. For multiple installs, costs range from $33 to $89 per drip leg. Drip legs capture moisture so that it doesn't enter the control unit. Although small pieces of sediment may get through a drip leg.

The part costs around $14 per drip leg, and you may be able to install it yourself as a DIY project.

Gas Line Sediment Trap Cost

Plumbers charge $75 to $150 to install a gas line sediment trap. Sediment traps capture moisture and sediment so that they don't enter the control unit. Unlike a drip leg, the flow of the gas is altered to remove any sediment. A sediment trap may be included in a drip leg install.

The sediment trap parts cost $10 to $14 each and plumbers will be able to install them within an hour.

Connecting A Vent To A Gas Line

The cost to connect a vent to a gas line is $10 to $15 per linear foot. Fittings and regulators are covered in the materials costs for each gas line. Other fees and permit costs may also apply.

Cost to Move a Gas Line or Pipe

The average cost to move or reroute a gas line is $15 to $25 per linear foot. Contributing factors to the final price include the piping, distance, and conditions. If new appliances are being added, you may need a new installation because modern appliances often need wider pipes.

Cost to Move a Gas Meter Outside

The typical cost to move a gas meter outside is $15 to $25 per linear foot which does not include the $80 connection cost. Moving a gas meter can have very diverse requirements. Some gas companies will move it for free, while others may charge up to $4,000.

Gas Line Extension Costs

Gas line extension costs $12 to $25 per linear foot. Costs depend on construction barriers, the type of extension required, and the pipe material used. If the existing gas line isn’t up to code, the whole thing will need to be replaced. While extensions are typically less costly than adding a new gas line, it is not always recommended based on these factors.

Cost Factors To Install or Repair Gas Lines

Several key factors affect the cost of a new gas line. First, understand the basics of your existing configuration before you get started—from your current appliances and your home’s existing gas lines to adding a new line to the type of gas you use.

Additional Cost Factors

• Required permits tend to range from $50 to $300.

• Annual gas system inspections cost $100 to $150 per inspection.

• Trenching costs $5 and $12 per linear foot, depending on the depth. The service provider must get a permit before trenching.

• Complex installations and repairs will increase the amount of time and costs to complete the project.

• Landscaping costs to make repairs from trenching range from $500 to $2,000+ depending on the landscaping setup you have. Replacing sod will be much cheaper than running a line under a patio.

• Typical concrete prices average $125 per cubic yard.

Accounting for Gas Appliances

Go through your home and determine how many gas appliances you have. Pricing changes based on pipe size, which is determined by how many BTUs all of your appliances are using.

1. Create a list of all of your gas appliances.

2. Read the table or nameplate of each appliance and record the gas input.

3. Check the gas meter (natural gas) for the ID size.

Gas Type – Propane or Natural Gas

The cost is roughly the same for installing a propane gas line from the tank to the house as the cost to have natural gas run to the house. Find out which kind of gas your home currently has.

• Propane gas is stored in tanks, usually outside the home.

• Natural gas lines are comparable to power bills in that a local or city utility company provides the service. Instead of a tank, there will be a meter outside your home.

If you are building a new home or do not currently have gas, there are several benefits to each type. Take the time to understand the differences between propane and natural gas so that you can choose the right one for your individual needs.

Gas Line Pipe Size

The amount of piping currently in your home and the size of the tubing is the determining factor in your total costs. If the existing gas line has the capacity to add a new gas appliance, the prices will be significantly lower than a new install. If a system is already at capacity, a new line will need to be installed to the gas manifold.

Gas Line FAQs

The following are the most commonly asked questions about gas line installation, gas line connections, and the cost to run gas lines to a house.

How Much Does It Cost to Add Gas to a House?

The average cost to add or convert a house to natural gas is $1,300 to $3,400, with a minimum cost of $710 and a maximum price reported of $9,500. Gas line repairs cost $6 to $7 per linear foot. Plumbers charge $45 to $150 an hour for gas line installs or repairs.

Who Installs Gas Lines?

Both plumbers and certified gas specialists repair or install new gas lines.

Do Plumbers Install Gas Lines?

Yes, certified and licensed plumbers can make installation and repair changes to the gas piping system.

How Much Does It Cost to Install a Gas Line in a Kitchen?

Installing a new gas line in the kitchen will typically cost $300 to $800 depending on the length of the pipe needed. If you're converting your house to natural gas, or if the current line is at capacity, expect to spend $2,000+.

New gas line costs include appliance connections, shut-off valves, a gas meter, and connection of the gas to the main gas line in the street.

Do I Need a Permit to Run a Gas Line?

Running a gas line does require either a building permit or a plumbing permit. For more complex installations and projects, additional or special permits may be required. You should also check the inspections required for your project.

Are Flexible Gas Lines Safe?

Flexible gas lines are generally preferable to inflexible lines, particularly in areas where earthquakes are more common and for the connection between the supply and appliance. Flexible gas lines are less likely to be disconnected in a natural disaster which decreases the risk of an explosion or fire.

How Far Down Are Gas Lines Buried?

At a minimum, gas lines should be buried 18", and the preferred depth is 24".

DIY vs. Hiring a Plumber

Installing or repairing a gas line is dangerous, and many areas require certified gas plumbers to install or repair gas pipes. For your safety, hire a plumber for any gas line repairs, even simple connections like ovens and dryers.

Plumbers know the regulations and requirements to properly set up and test gas systems to perform the right level of gas flow. Professional installers ensure your gas lines are secured and set up in a way that will make them safer in the event of an earthquake.

Considerations When Hiring a Gas Fitter

Gas fitters are highly recommended because of the potential risks when working with gas lines and their many intricate details. Professional gas line contractors ensure the safety of everyone in the home after installation.

Annual Gas System Inspections

The cost for annual inspections ranges from $50 to $300, with the average being $150. Different regions have their own requirements, but you can check out the national safety and inspection requirements to get an idea of the minimum requirements.

Natural gas piping is typically located in three distinct areas:

• From the main gas line at the curb to the meter or home (outside).

• From the meter to other outside appliances, such as the pool or BBQ grill (outside).

• From the meter to the appliances (inside the home).

Questions and Research Before Hiring

The following are the initial questions to ask professionals who you are considering hiring.

• Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?

• Have you been in business for more than five years?

• Do your qualifications cover my region?

• Can you provide references with contact information?

• What materials do your qualifications cover?

• Do you offer a warranty? If so, what does the warranty cover?

• Do you have certification as a general plumber or a gas line specialist?

• Will you handle the permitting process?

• What is and is not included in the estimate?

You should be able to go online to verify their qualifications and licensing information. Make sure to record the following information for reference later:

• Company name

• Company address

• License number

• Websites

• Social media sites

You may need this information later if you need repairs or if there are problems after the initial installation.

Take the time to review their customer satisfaction ratings on HomeGuide and Google. Customers are more likely to leave a bad review than a good experience, so it is important to see what kind of ratings the company has.