Short answer
A perc (percolation) test costs $300–$3,000, with an average around $1,300. Simple hand-dug tests can cost $200–$1,500; tests that need an excavator, deep holes or an engineer run $500–$3,000 or more.
What the cost guides say
What published cost guides say (checked October 2026)| Source | Their figure |
|---|
| Angi | Average about $1,300; $300–$3,000 |
| HomeGuide | Hand-dug $200–$1,500; with excavator $500–$3,000+ |
| Angi | $700–$2,000 (as part of a septic install) |
| HomeGuide | $600–$2,000 |
| Our range | $300–$3,000 (average about $1,300) |
Perc test cost breakdown
| Item | Typical cost | Source |
|---|
| Each test hole | $100–$500 | HomeGuide |
| Each extra foot of depth | $100–$150 per hole | HomeGuide |
| Labor | $100–$250 per hour | HomeGuide (some charge a $300 flat fee) |
| Excavator and operator | $100–$300 per hour | HomeGuide |
| Soil scientist fee | +$150–$400 | HomeGuide |
| Licensed engineer fee | +$200–$500 | HomeGuide |
| Extra soil samples | $10–$70 each | HomeGuide |
How a perc test works
- The tester picks spots where the drain field could go, away from wells and setbacks.
- Holes are dug, often 18–36 inches deep.
- The holes are soaked so the soil is saturated, as it would be in use.
- Water is added and the drop is timed to get minutes per inch.
- Results go to the county, which sets the loading rate for your design.
Use your soil type in the drain field size calculator to see how much trench you may need.
Tips before you test
- Test before you close on land, and make the purchase contingent on a passing result.
- Ask whether your county only tests in wet seasons.
- Ask the tester to check two possible field areas in one visit.
Frequently asked questions
What is a perc test?
A test of how fast water soaks into your soil. Holes are dug, soaked, filled with water, and the drop is timed in minutes per inch. The result sets the size and type of septic system you can build.
What happens if land fails a perc test?
It usually means an engineered system such as a mound or aerobic unit, which costs more. In some places a lot that fails cannot get a septic permit at all, so test before you buy land.
Who does a perc test?
A licensed soil scientist, engineer or septic professional, depending on your state. Ask your county health department who is approved.
How many holes does a perc test need?
HomeGuide says most tests need 2 or more holes, 18 to 36 inches deep. Your county sets the exact number and depth.
Sources
- Who Does Perc Tests and What Do They Cost?, Angi. Average about $1,300; $300–$3,000.
- Perc Test Cost, HomeGuide. Hand-dug $200–$1,500; excavator $500–$3,000+; per-hole and professional fees.
- How Much Does It Cost to Install a Septic System?, Angi. National average $8,016; cost by system type; perc test, permit, survey, riser and lid costs.
- Drain / Leach Field Replacement Cost, HomeGuide. Replacement $3,000–$15,000; rejuvenation $1,000–$5,000; moving a field; lifespan 20–25 years.
Prices are estimates for 2026, not quotes. Local codes, soil and access change the price, so get at least two written quotes and confirm the rules with your county health department.