Key Cost Ranges:
- Small tanks (15–20 lbs): $35–$60
- Mid-sized tanks (100–250 gallons): $350–$1,000
- Large tanks (500–1,000 gallons): $700–$5,500
Factors Affecting Propane Tank Costs
- Tank Size
- By Gallons:
| Tank Size | Cost Range |
|---------------|----------------|
| Under 100 gal | $35–$300 |
| 100 gal | $350–$500 |
| 250 gal | $500–$1,000 |
| 500 gal | $700–$3,000 |
| 1,000 gal | $1,500–$5,500 | -
By Pounds:
| Tank Size | Cost Range |
|---------------|----------------|
| 15 lbs | $35–$55 |
| 20 lbs | $40–$60 |
| 420 lbs | $400–$800 | -
Installation Type
- Aboveground Tanks: $400–$3,500
-
Underground Tanks: $1,500–$5,500
- Excavation: $500–$2,400
- Plumbing: $45–$200/hour
- Trenching: $400–$1,200 per 100 linear feet
-
Labor Costs
- $250–$5,000 total (depending on complexity)
-
Hourly rate: $120–$150/hour
-
Site Preparation
- Excavation (Underground): $50–$200/cubic yard
-
Concrete Pads (Aboveground): $50–$175
-
Permits and Fees
- Permit costs: $25–$150
Ongoing Expenses
- Filling the Tank:
- Average propane price: $2.58/gallon
- Example: Filling a 250-gallon tank costs ~$645.
- Inspections: $50–$75/year
- Tank Rentals: $150–$180/year
Aboveground vs. Underground Tanks
| Factor | Aboveground | Underground |
|----------------|-------------------------------------|-------------------------------------|
| Cost | $400–$3,500 | $1,500–$5,500 |
| Maintenance| Easier access, more frequent care | More durable, harder to access |
| Longevity | Prone to weather damage | Protected, longer-lasting |
| Best For | Flood-prone areas | Aesthetic or temperature control |
Add-On Services
| Add-On | Cost |
|------------------------------|-----------------------|
| Remove old propane tank | $100–$1,500 |
| Service existing propane tank| $50–$75 |
| Propane delivery | $5–$100 per delivery |
Money-Saving Tips
- Opt for aboveground tanks to avoid excavation costs.
- Choose a tank size that meets your exact needs.
- Buy instead of renting a propane tank to save long-term.
- Compare quotes from multiple propane suppliers.
- Use a combination of smaller tanks for lower upfront costs.
With careful planning, you can find an option that balances upfront costs and long-term savings!
