Water Tank Prices: How Much Does a Water Tank Cost in the US?

Having access to clean, safe water in case of an emergency is always wise. Steel, fiberglass, polyethylene, and other materials are used to create modern water tanks that can be placed above or below ground and used for various purposes. There are certain types of tanks that are better suited to specific types of water usage. You especially don't want to keep drinking water in containers that could make the water dangerous to drink. If you're thinking about adding one to your property, it may appear straightforward. However, the size of a plastic water tank can range from 3 to 20,000 gallons, meaning water tank prices vary significantly. You also have the option of choosing larger steel water storage tanks with capacities of over 1 million gallons for larger projects.

But don’t worry! If you’re wondering “how much does a tank cost?”, we can help you understand the various water storage tank prices and where to purchase them.

What is a Water Tank?

Water storage tanks, also known as water reservoirs, are containers specially made for the storage and preservation of both potable and non-potable water. They come in various shapes and sizes, each with its own features. A water storage tank's primary function is to store water for later use in domestic, agricultural, and industrial applications - but many storage tanks are considerably more complicated than they appear. Some of these containers offer excellent storage for liquids other than water (more on that later).

Different Types of Water Tanks and Their Purposes

There are many water tanks on the market today, each with its strengths and weaknesses. The main categories of water storage tanks are above-ground and below-ground. Within these major categories, there are numerous options, including different shapes and sizes. Some common tank shapes include rectangular, cylindrical, elliptical/dome-shaped, and oval.

Above Ground and Underground Water Storage Tanks

Specific Uses for Water Storage Tanks

Emergency Use

Fire protection - The West and Southwest regions of the U.S. suffered some of the worst forest fires in history this year. You'll be better equipped to keep fire away from your home or operate a sprinkler system with a water tank that can hold hundreds or thousands of gallons.

Emergency water tanks can range between $3 to $5 per gallon, depending on the material and tank type. They are especially handy in storing water during disasters including hurricanes, wildfires, and unforeseen challenges affecting water lines including shortages or contamination.

Daily Use

• For those needing a reliable supply of drinking water, small bladder tanks are an excellent solution. These flexible tanks, priced between $7 to $16 per gallon, can be conveniently stored under a porch or in a crawl space. They are ideal for emergency preparedness or off-grid living.
• For larger-scale potable water storage, vertical plastic or polyethylene tanks offer capacities ranging from 20 to 15,000 gallons. These tanks are perfect for homeowners without access to a municipal water supply, ensuring a steady and safe drinking water source.
• A dedicated water storage tank provides a steady supply for daily household needs, including showers, laundry, and dishwashing. Small storage or bladder tanks can supplement your main water system, reducing strain. While these tanks don't maintain heat themselves, insulating options like tank heating blankets can help preserve temperature and prevent freezing in colder climates.
• For gardening and agricultural use, irrigation water storage tanks provide a consistent backup supply to keep crops, lawns, and landscapes thriving—even during dry seasons. Many homeowners and farmers have transitioned from open ponds to closed irrigation tanks due to their superior water safety, cleanliness, and efficiency. These tanks come in various sizes and materials, with costs starting at around $200 for small models and increasing based on capacity and features.
• Livestock - Water supply for cattle and other livestock on farms is (and must be) a top priority of any farmer. If the intake of water is restricted, livestock becomes less active, and the impact can be more damaging than any nutrient deficit. To avoid sickness and illnesses, animals require high-quality water accessible at all times.

Septic System Tanks

Homes built outside the range of commercial water systems typically have a well and septic system. Modern septic tanks are available in concrete, fiberglass, and plastic.

Pricing for septic tanks varies between $1,000 and $4,000 without factoring the additional costs to get your system up and running. Sewer system expenses generally involve initial permit fees, hookup fees, plumbing installation costs for the connection, and ongoing monthly or annual disposal charges. These combined sewer-related costs can accumulate to a total outlay of $10,000 to $20,000 from system design to installation.

Rainwater Collection System Tanks

A rainwater harvesting system captures rainfall from non-porous surfaces and stores it for future use on the site where it was collected, often with significant water savings. This offers various advantages and possibilities for water conservation and sustainability. The top options we have for rainwater collection include:

Basic above-ground setups start at a price point of $500, but can cost more depending on size. The cost can also increase to over $1,700 for more intricate systems that include the storage container(s) or underground storage.

The Most Common Types of Water Tanks and Their Prices

Tank Depot Offers a Wide Variety of Water Storage Tanks

Whether you are looking for an emergency water tank for fire protection or a water storage for your livestock, Tank Depot has the perfect tank for you. With a wide selection of sizes and prices, we have the water tank you need at the best price on the market.

Contact us today for more information or a location near you.

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