Septic and Title 5
Septic tank pump-out: what it costs in Massachusetts
How this range is built
| Part of the job | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Parts and materials | $0 | $0 |
| Labor: 1.5 to 2.5 hours × $115 to $160 an hour | $173 | $400 |
| Fees: disposal, permits, supplies | $150 | $300 |
| Total, rounded | $320 | $700 |
The hourly rate is the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025 average pay for this trade in Boston, $44.62 an hour, times 2.6 to 3.6 to cover what a contractor bills (overhead, tools, insurance, profit). Materials are a band from basic to high-end. Full method.
Not a repair shop, estimates only. Typical range, estimate. Not a quote. Your home, materials and contractor change the number.
Pump out a 1,000 to 1,500 gallon septic tank. Recommended every 3 to 5 years.
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What is usually included
- Pump tank
- Inspect baffles and level
- Dispose waste
- Receipt for Title 5
What moves the price
- Tank size
- Access depth
- Dig out lid
- Disposal fees
Questions to ask before you say yes
- Does it include digging the lid?
- Is a filter cleaning included?
- What size tank?
- Do you provide a receipt?
Can you do it yourself?
Not a DIY; the tank must be pumped by a licensed hauler who disposes of the waste legally.
Common questions
How often to pump?
Every 2 to 3 years for most family homes. Smaller tanks or more people in the house mean more often.
Why pump?
Solids build up in the tank. If they get into the leach field, it can clog and cost many thousands to replace.
What signs mean I need it?
Slow drains, gurgling pipes, sewage smells, or soggy ground over the tank or field. Do not wait for a backup.
How much does septic tank pump-out cost in Massachusetts?
A typical range is $320 to $700. It is an estimate built from labor wages and material prices, not a quote.
Typical range in 10 metro areas
Only the labor rate changes between cities. Same parts, same hours.
| Area | Typical range, estimate |
|---|---|
| Boston area, Massachusetts | $320 to $700 |
| New York City area | $320 to $690 |
| Los Angeles area, California | $300 to $650 |
| Chicago area, Illinois | $330 to $720 |
| Houston area, Texas | $270 to $580 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth area, Texas | $270 to $580 |
| Phoenix area, Arizona | $280 to $600 |
| Atlanta area, Georgia | $260 to $570 |
| Miami area, Florida | $250 to $550 |
| Seattle area, Washington | $330 to $720 |