How Much Does a Reverse Osmosis System Cost in 2024?

Average Reverse Osmosis System Cost

Reverse Osmosis System Cost Factors

Various factors can affect the cost of a reverse osmosis system, including efficiency, number of stages, NSF rating, labor, add-ons, and ongoing expenses.

Efficiency

Reverse osmosis systems measure efficiency in how quickly filtered water is produced and how much water is lost during the process. New high-efficiency systems have a one-to-one ratio, with one gallon of waste per filtered gallon. Less efficient systems can produce up to four gallons of water per gallon of filtered water produced. You can expect to pay up to $300 more for a high-efficiency system.

Number of Stages

The number of stages in a reverse osmosis system determines the level of filtration the water receives. Most systems feature three to seven filtration stages, and the higher the number of stages, the higher the system's price.

NSF Rating

The National Sanitation Foundation sets ratings for water treatment filters that guarantee the system’s level of filtration. The common ratings of reverse osmosis systems include 42, 53, 401, and 58. The higher a system's NSF rating, the more you pay.

Labor

To ensure proper installation, it’s best to hire a local water filtration system installer to connect the system to your home’s plumbing. The average cost to install a water filtration system ranges from $45 to $200 per hour, with most systems averaging $100 to $800 for labor.

The total price depends on the system type and installation difficulty. Contractors can often quickly install countertop and under-sink systems, while whole-home systems are more complex and cost up to $1,500 in labor alone.

Add-Ons

Various add-ons are available for reverse osmosis systems, including smart features, tankless options, advanced filtration, additional pumps, and remineralization processes. The more add-ons your system has, the higher the price.

Ongoing Costs

Professional maintenance costs $50 to $100 per year and is required for the proper function of your reverse osmosis system. During the maintenance appointment, a technician performs a full inspection and tune-up of your system, including replacing the filter. If your system requires repair, expect to pay between $150 and $800, depending on the damage.

Reverse Osmosis Cost by System Type

There are two types of reverse osmosis systems: whole-home and point-of-use. These systems vary in their design, process, and price point. 

Whole-Home

Also known as point-of-entry systems, whole-home reverse osmosis systems treat water the moment it enters your house from the main water line. These systems cost between $750 and $7,500 and are best for homes using well water, rainwater, or water with high levels of contaminants. 

Point-of-Use

Point-of-use systems are often attached to specific faucets and treat only the water from that tap. Depending on the system design, they range in price from $300 to $1,500. You can find point-of-use systems in countertops, under-sink tankless, and under-sink tank designs. Countertop systems are the most budget-friendly, while under-sink tank systems are the most costly.

Reverse Osmosis System Cost by Brand

The brand of reverse osmosis system significantly affects the total cost, with prices ranging from $150 to $2,000 or more before labor. The best option for your home depends on your filtration needs and budget.

Does a Reverse Osmosis System Increase Home Value?

The value a reverse osmosis system adds to your home depends on the type and quality of the system installed. While countertop or under-sink systems offer the benefit of clean water at specific taps, they’re often not enough to increase your home value. Whole-home systems filter water from any faucet in the house, so they may increase value and attract potential buyers. 

Budgeting for a Reverse Osmosis System

A reverse osmosis system can be a significant investment for your home. Consider these budget-friendly tips to cut down on costs:

• Choose a cost-efficient system with the minimum efficiency and NSF rating for your needs.

• Compare prices from local contractors to find the most affordable option in your area.

• Opt for a point-of-use system rather than a whole-home system.

• Keep up with regular maintenance to prevent costly repairs.

How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data

No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.