California cost guide
French Drain cost in California
Quick answer
French Drain in California costs an estimated $11 - $37 per linear ft. That is 7% above the national average, because landscaping workers in California earn $22.80 an hour versus $20.33 nationally (BLS May 2025).
- Estimate (per linear ft)
- $11 - $37
- Typical
- -
- vs US average
- +7%
- Rank (1 = priciest)
- #4 of 51
Estimates compiled .
Cost calculator
Estimated cost in California: $530 - $1,870 (50 linear feet at per linear ft)
Planning estimate only. Confirm with written quotes.
What affects french drain prices in California
- Length of the drain run and trench depth.
- Where the water discharges and whether a dry well or pump is needed.
- Soil type, roots and obstacles along the route.
- Restoring lawn or hardscape after trenching.
- Local labor costs: California landscaping wages are 7% above the national average, and labor is about 55% of this job's price.
How California compares
| State | Estimate (per linear ft) |
|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $11 - $39 |
| Massachusetts | $11 - $39 |
| Washington | $11 - $38 |
| California | $11 - $37 |
| Vermont | $11 - $37 |
| Alaska | $11 - $37 |
| Colorado | $11 - $37 |
| United States | $10 - $35 |
French Drain companies in California
Other landscaping costs in California
- Lawn Mowing$49 - $78
- Lawn Fertilization$69 - $105
- Yard Cleanup$140 - $440
- Shrub & Hedge Trimming$44 - $83
- Gardener$39 - $72
- Tree Removal$440 - $1,300
- Sod Installation$1.05 - $2.11
- Artificial Turf Installation$10 - $26
- Sprinkler System Installation$635 - $2,100
- Landscape Design$775 - $3,350
- Landscaping Installation$3,200 - $17,000
- Paver Patio$11 - $18
- Retaining Wall$37 - $69
- Landscape Lighting$84 - $315
- Xeriscaping$5.27 - $21
- Snow Removal$33 - $76
- Commercial Lawn Care$875 - $1,750
French Drain cost in California: common questions
How much does french drain cost in California?
About $11 - $37 per linear ft. The US range is $10 - $35 (HomeGuide).
Is french drain more expensive in California than average?
California ranks #4 of 51 for landscaping wages, so french drain runs 7% above the national average.
What affects french drain prices in California?
Length of the drain run and trench depth. Where the water discharges and whether a dry well or pump is needed. Soil type, roots and obstacles along the route. Restoring lawn or hardscape after trenching.
How do I find french drain companies in California?
Local Landscaping lists 6 businesses offering this service in California, including in Sacramento, Riverside and Fresno. Ask each for the discharge point, pipe and fabric used and how the lawn is restored.
Planning estimate: US range from HomeGuide (2026) adjusted for California by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS May 2025 landscaping wage. Businesses listed here have not set or confirmed these prices.