French Drain Cost in 2026: Price per Foot, Interior vs. Exterior
Quick answer
A French drain costs about $10 to $50 per linear foot for an exterior yard drain and about $40 to $100 per linear foot for an interior basement system in 2026. Most complete projects land between $2,000 and $10,000, with a national average around $5,000. Length, depth, soil, and whether the drain ties into a sump pump drive the price.
Key takeaways
- Exterior French drain: about $10–$50 per linear foot.
- Interior (basement) French drain: about $40–$100 per linear foot.
- Most projects: about $2,000–$10,000; average around $5,000.
- Perforated pipe is cheap (about $0.50–$3 per foot); labor and digging are most of the cost.
- Behind a retaining wall: about $25–$50 per linear foot.
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How much does a French drain cost?
| Type | Typical cost per linear foot |
|---|---|
| Exterior yard drain | $10–$50 |
| Behind a retaining wall | $25–$50 |
| Interior basement perimeter drain | $40–$100 |
| Length (interior) | Typical total |
|---|---|
| 50 feet | $2,000–$5,000 |
| 100 feet | $4,000–$10,000 |
What affects French drain cost?
- Depth: deeper trenches, like footing drains, cost much more than shallow yard drains.
- Soil: clay and rocky soil take longer to dig.
- Access: tight side yards or finished basements raise labor.
- Restoration: replacing sod, pavers or concrete after the trench adds cost.
- Sump pump tie-in: interior systems often drain to a sump pit.
Is a French drain the right fix?
French drains move groundwater and surface runoff away from low spots and foundations. If water is coming off the roof, clean or extend the gutters first: it's far cheaper. See our gutter cleaning cost guide.
For yard drainage, find a landscaper near you. For basement water, start with a plumber or see our sump pump cost guide.
How to pay less
- Fix gutters and downspouts first in case they're the real source.
- Choose an exterior drain when it solves the problem; it costs far less per foot.
- Do the surface restoration yourself (reseeding, mulch).
- Set your own price on Blixxy. Post the job with photos, get a free AI estimate, and choose your budget. The first available local pro accepts, and your payment is held until the job is done.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a French drain cost per foot?
About $10 to $50 per linear foot for an exterior drain and about $40 to $100 per linear foot for an interior basement drain in 2026.
How much does a 100-foot French drain cost?
An interior 100-foot system often runs about $4,000 to $10,000. An exterior yard drain of the same length usually costs much less.
Can I install a French drain myself?
A short, shallow yard drain is a doable DIY project. Deep, long or basement drains are best left to a pro.
How long does a French drain last?
A well-built French drain with filter fabric often lasts decades, though it may need flushing if it clogs with silt.
Sources
- How Much Does a French Drain Cost in 2026? — LawnStarter
- How Much Does a French Drain Cost? — Lawn Love
Prices are typical U.S. ranges for planning and vary by location and job. The Blixxy editorial team writes practical guides on home repair costs, hiring local pros, and home maintenance, using public data from government and industry sources.
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