Septic and Title 5
Septic system replacement (full): what it costs in Massachusetts
How this range is built
| Part of the job | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Parts and materials | $9,000 | $24,000 |
| Labor: 60 to 140 hours × $115 to $160 an hour | $6,900 | $22,400 |
| Fees: disposal, permits, supplies | $2,500 | $6,000 |
| Total, rounded | $18,400 | $52,400 |
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.
Install a new tank and leach field to Title 5 standards, when the old system fails inspection. Needs design and permits.
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What is usually included
- Soil testing and design
- Tank and leach field
- Excavation and backfill
- Permits and inspections
- Restoration of yard
What moves the price
- Soil and groundwater
- Lot size and setbacks
- Pressure-dosed vs gravity
- Innovative systems
Questions to ask before you say yes
- Is design and permit included?
- What does the system warranty cover, and who honors it?
- What happens with delays or rock?
- Do you pay for health inspections?
Can you do it yourself?
Not a DIY; the design, permits and install need a licensed engineer and installer.
Common questions
How long does it take?
Design and permits can take weeks to months. Once approved, installation usually takes a few days to two weeks.
How much does design cost?
A licensed engineer's design and soil tests often run $2,000 to $5,000. It is included in the total range, so ask for a clear breakdown.
Are there loans?
Yes. Massachusetts has a Title 5 loan program through towns and the state, with low rates for qualifying homeowners. Ask your board of health.
How much does septic system replacement (full) cost in Massachusetts?
A typical range is $18,400 to $52,400. 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 | $18,400 to $52,400 |
| New York City area | $18,400 to $51,700 |
| Los Angeles area, California | $17,500 to $49,600 |
| Chicago area, Illinois | $18,700 to $53,100 |
| Houston area, Texas | $16,300 to $45,400 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth area, Texas | $16,300 to $45,400 |
| Phoenix area, Arizona | $16,900 to $46,800 |
| Atlanta area, Georgia | $16,000 to $44,700 |
| Miami area, Florida | $15,700 to $44,000 |
| Seattle area, Washington | $18,700 to $53,100 |