Updated July 25, 2022
Reviewed by Robert Tschudi, Expert Home Building and Remodeling Contributor. Written by HomeAdvisor.
A fireplace doesn’t just make your home cozy when temperatures start to dip in the winter. It also adds some value. The cost to install a fireplace or wood stove is typically between $878 and $3,911. The average homeowner pays around $2,394, but this varies widely depending on the required work. A portable electric fireplace could cost as little as $150, but building an intricate masonry wood-burning fireplace requiring chimney installation could cost more than $30,000.
On This Page:
- Fireplace Installation Cost Calculator
- Fireplace Installation Costs by Type
- Wood-Burning Fireplace
- Wood Stove
- Electric
- Gas
- Outdoor Fireplaces
- Pellet Stove
- Fireplace Insert Costs
- Cost of Converting Gas Fireplace to Wood
- Fireplace Installation Cost Factors
- New Construction vs. Existing Home
- Type and Style of Fireplace
- Ventilation
- Chimney Liner
- Prefab vs. Custom
- Pros and Cons of Fireplace Types
- Benefits of Installing a Fireplace
- DIY vs. Hiring a Fireplace Installer
- FAQs
Fireplace Installation Cost Calculator
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| National Average | $2,394 |
| Typical Range | $878 - $3,911 |
| Low End - High End | $150 - $8,000 |
Cost data is based on actual project costs as reported by 1,379 HomeAdvisor members.
Fireplace Installation Costs by Type
The type of fireplace or stove will help determine your project’s overall price—and those that need ventilation will be pricier to install depending on your existing home setup.
| Type of Fireplace | Typical Price Range, Installed |
|---|---|
| Wood-Burning Fireplace | $700 – $30,000 |
| Wood Stove | $325 – $4,000 |
| Electric Fireplace | $350 – $2,300 |
| Gas Fireplace | $60 – $12,000 |
| Outdoor Fireplaces | $1,500 – $20,000 |
| Pellet Stove | $1,000 – $3,100 |
Wood-Burning Fireplace
In a home with adequate ventilation and a working chimney, you could install a wood-burning fireplace for as little as $700. Constructing a brand new wood-burning fireplace from scratch could run more than $30,000. This fireplace type is the most traditional, but it has the largest range of potential project prices. Things that increase the cost include:
Masonry work
The cost of chimney repairs
Chimney and flue installation
Foundational work to support the weight of the fireplace
Removal of existing fireplace
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Wood Stove
The cost to install a wood stove ranges from $325 to $4,000 or more. You can purchase a free-standing unit for less than $1,500. But wood stoves are freestanding and require ventilation and non-combustible wall coverings on nearby walls. This bumps up the price, more commonly, to the $3,000 to $4,000 range.
Catalytic wood stoves produce fewer fumes and burn more efficiently, which are more expensive than non-catalytic stoves.
Electric
Most people spend anywhere from $250 to $2,000 on their electric fireplace, plus an additional $150 to $300 for professional installation. Wiring can add $140 to $200 or more to the project. Electric fireplaces are highly efficient and carry a very low safety risk compared to traditional wood or gas fireplaces.
Gas
The cost to install a gas fireplace ranges from $60 to $12,500. A small tabletop unit can cost as little as $60, while a built-in gas fireplace can cost more than $9,000. If you need to install a gas line, it could add $120 to $1,350 to your project.
Outdoor Fireplaces
The cost to build an outdoor fireplace can range from $1,500 to more than $20,000—this does not include custom fireplaces with ornate designs. The price increases as the work required grows. A pre-made kit or unfinished contractor model is the most budget-friendly.
Pellet Stove
The cost to install a pellet stove is typically between $1,000 and $3,100. Pellet stoves are similar to wood-burning stoves, but they burn clean pellet fuel instead of wood and use a thermostat to control temperature.
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Fireplace Insert Costs
The cost of fireplace inserts is usually between $700 and $6,500, including parts and labor, but it depends on the insert type. Labor costs vary based on how the insert is powered. A local fireplace insert professional can give you a more accurate estimate.
Fireplace inserts are wood or gas stoves designed to fit into an existing masonry fireplace. You might choose this over a traditional wood-burning option if you’re looking for an affordable and efficient fireplace.
| Fireplace Insert | Average Insert Cost | Installation Costs (Labor Only) | Total Project Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wood | $800 – $4,500 | $2,180 | $3,080 – $6,680 |
| Gas | $800 – $4,500 | $1,500 | $2,300 – $6,000 |
| Pellets | $1,500 – $5,000 | $525 | $2,025 – $5,525 |
| Electric | $200 – $1,500 | $225 | $425 – $1,725 |
Since the project cost will rise if you need chimney repairs, enlist a local chimney inspection service before installing a fireplace insert that uses a chimney for ventilation.
Cost of Converting Gas Fireplace to Wood
You can make the switch with a modest budget—especially if you already have a chimney flue. Most homeowners spend between $100 and $300 to convert a gas fireplace into a wood-burning fireplace—but conversion isn’t possible without a flue. In addition, you may need extra masonry work, repairs to your fireplace facade, or chimney construction or replacement, which can add significant expenses. Here are some potential costs to convert a gas fireplace to wood:
Cost to build a chimney: $900–$3,000 for a 15-foot chimney
Cost to install chimney liner or flue: $625–$7,000
Cost of masonry work: $40–$75 per hour for labor
Cost to repair fireplace: $177–$933
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Fireplace Installation Cost Factors
This project budget varies widely based on a number of influential factors. Constructing a fireplace in a new home that never intended to have a fireplace will jack up your prices significantly, as will your style and ventilation needs.
New Construction vs. Existing Home
To save money on your new build, build and install your fireplace during the construction phase. Outfitting a home never intended for a wood-burning or gas fireplace comes with significant challenges. Your contractor will complete additional chimney construction, ductwork, or electrical work. In this case, a ventless or electric fireplace may be your most cost-effective option.
Type and Style of Fireplace
The type and style of your fireplace will be your biggest cost factor. Electric and ventless gas styles don’t require ventilation, which can save you thousands. Others involve complicated masonry, gas line installation, or additional wiring that will increase labor costs.
Consider your material choices, too. For example, the cost of a stone veneer fireplace is always less than the cost of natural stone. If you choose a wood-burning fireplace or stove, factor in the ongoing cost of firewood.
Ventilation
Ventilation is crucial for fireplace safety. If you need to add ventilation or fix your existing source of ventilation, you may have to bump your budget by thousands. Most homeowners spend $65 to $350 per square foot to build a chimney, and the typical price of a chimney rebuild ranges from $1,000 to $5,000. A chimney exhaust fan alone costs between $2,240 to $4,150.
Chimney Liner
The cost to install a chimney liner is typically between $625 to $7,000. The average homeowner pays $2,500. Clay and aluminum are the most cost-effective flue liners compared to pricier options like ceramic or thermocrete.
Prefab vs. Custom
The typical prefabricated gas or wood-burning fireplace costs $2,000 to $6,000, while a custom fireplace typically costs $4,000 to more than $8,000. Pre-fab gas fireplaces are self-contained boxes that take a contractor minimal time to install in an existing fireplace, making them a common, cost-effective option.
Pros and Cons of Fireplace Types
We know and love fireplaces for their heating properties and charm. Obvious downsides to fireplaces are their costs and the safety hazards associated with them—especially the safety of ventless gas fireplaces. Beyond that, chimney-vented fireplaces become hazardous if not properly vented and maintained.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, heating equipment like fireplaces and wood-burning stoves is a top cause of residential fires. Failure to clean chimneys is a major contributor. Don’t skip your annual inspection, and call a chimney sweeper near you when cleanings are required.
Aside from safety, here are a few pros and cons of each type of fireplace.
| Type of Fireplace | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Wood-Burning | Lower utility expenses and pleasant ambiance | Installation can be expensive and requires more maintenance |
| Gas | Easy to use and suitable for homes without a chimney or flue | Higher utility bill from gas usage and ventless options are a potential safety hazard |
| Electric | No mess, no flames, no harmful emissions, and no chimney or flue required | May not look realistic, requires wiring installation, and increases utility bills |
Benefits of Installing a Fireplace
Pleasant ambiance aside, they also add value to your home.. In a 2016 Angi survey, 77% of buyers revealed that they would pay $1,000 to $5,000 more for a home with a fireplace. In other words, installation could pay for itself, but you’re not likely to see a favorable return on investment if you go with a pricey custom fireplace.
DIY vs. Hiring a Fireplace Installer
You can buy a portable electric or gas stove, but fireplace installation is a job best left to a pro. It’s not just about safety and insurance; it’s about local laws, building codes, and regulations, too. For example, some states have banned ventless fireplaces because of health concerns, and others have specific legal requirements for fireplace safety. You can save some money by DIYing a fireplace surround update, but leave the actual installation to a fireplace contractor near you.
FAQs
Are wood-burning fireplaces permitted in your area?
Some cities like New York City ban wood-burning fireplaces. Colorado and the California Bay Area have laws about when you can and cannot use your wood-burning fireplace based on air quality. Since every area has different requirements for wood-burning fireplaces, it’s best to consult a local contractor who has experience in your area. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) lists a starter guide to some state ordinances and regulations.
Can you add a fireplace to an existing house?
You can build a fireplace in an existing house—though some local ordinances or HOA rules may prevent wood-burning options. Building a fireplace in an existing house often requires significant work (like building a chimney), which may be cost-prohibitive. In that case, an electric option may be your best bet.
Does a fireplace add value to a home?
According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), fireplaces are no longer one of the top five most-wanted home features, but they can still add value to your home. Still, Redfin found homes with fireplaces are priced 13% higher than the national median sale price.
Does a fireplace increase home insurance?
Due to the risk of an accidental house fire, having a fireplace or wood-burning stove in your home can increase your home insurance premium. You may even need to add specific fireplace coverage, which could be voided without specific proof of maintenance. Discuss options with your insurance agent before you install a fireplace.
How does a fireplace insert work?
A fireplace insert is a fireproof box made of metal and insulated glass, similar to a freestanding heating stove. The difference is that it will fit directly inside your existing fireplace. Traditional fireplaces use an open combustion system that loses heat through the chimney. Inserts are more efficient because they use a closed combustion system.
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FAQs
What is the cost of installing a wood burning stove? ›
The average cost to install a wood stove is $1,200 to $4,500. A wood burning stove costs $400 to $3,500, while a wood stove insert runs $1,200 to $3,400. Wood stove installation costs $250 to $800 for labor, and installing a ventilation system or chimney costs $300 to $3,500.
Is it worth it to install a fireplace? ›
Installing a new gas fireplace - or converting an existing fireplace to burn gas - is one of the better investments you can make in your home. A study by the National Association of Home Builders found that more than 75% of home buyers look for at least one fireplace in their new home.
What is better a fireplace or a wood stove? ›
Wood stoves do a better job than fireplaces of efficiently burning the firewood, which means they cause less pollution. While it may appear wood stoves win in a direct comparison with fireplaces, what is actually best for any individual or family is a matter of personal choice.
Does wood-burning stove add value to house? ›
A wood stove can add value to a house, but it can depend on what a buyer is looking for. Studies have shown that fireplaces in general are a selling point for a home, while wood stoves may help to increase house prices by up to 5%.
Do you need permission to install a wood-burning stove? ›
To get a wood burning stove installed in your home, the government states that you do not need to acquire planning permission from Building Control if these conditions are adhered to: The flue is situated at the rear or side of the building with a maximum clearance of 1m above the highest part of the roof.
Who makes the best wood-burning stove? ›
The best-rated wood stoves – by the best wood stove brands on the market like Osborn, Drolet, and Ashley Heart – are all EPA-certified. What's more, you'll even find emission rates of wood stoves to be below 2.0 g/h.
How much does it cost to add a wood-burning fireplace to a house? ›
How Much Does It Cost to Put in a Fireplace? According to HomeGuide, on average, a new metal prefabricated gas or wood-burning fireplace costs $2,900 installed, while an electric fireplace costs about $1,200. A masonry fireplace costs an average of $4,900 installed in an existing home with a 12-foot chimney.
Is wood-burning fireplace pros and cons? ›
The main benefits of wood stoves include their typically high efficiency ratings and ability to produce much more heat and fewer emissions compared to traditional open fireplaces. However, the main downside can be the potential high initial cost of purchase and installation of a wood stove.
How much does it cost to add a fireplace and chimney? ›
A fireplace and chimney install costs $2,500 to $11,000, or $6,750 on average. Replacing the cap, liner and other repairs range from $350 to $2,150. Expect to pay up to $1,000 per year for inspection and cleaning services depending on the condition of your chimney and its total number of flues.
What's the difference between a wood stove and a wood stove insert? ›
What is the Difference Between a Wood Fireplace Insert ... - YouTube
How long do wood burning fireplaces last? ›
Summary. Wood stoves can last a long time, typically 10-20 years depending on the build quality of the stove. The main components that can wear out more quickly than others include the baffle plate and the door gasket, both of which can typically be replaced as and when required without too much hassle.
What is more efficient wood stove or fireplace insert? ›
Wood Stove Pros
More efficient - Wood stoves burn more efficiently than fireplace inserts, creating more heat. Larger capacities - Wood stoves tend to have larger capacities than fireplace inserts, so it's possible to heat your entire home with a large model.
How much does it cost to install a wood-burning stove UK? ›
...
How Much Does a Wood Burner Installation Cost?
| Type of stove | Estimated cost | Installation cost |
|---|---|---|
| Range Cookers | £800 to £3500 | £1500 to £3000 |
| Convection Stoves | £350 to £3000 |
How much does log burner installation cost UK? ›
A starting price of approximately £450 is typical for a wood burning stove at the lower end of the price scale, although this figure can easily rise to £4,000 - £5,000 for designer, contemporary models. On average though, a price of around £900 - £1,500 is typical.
How much does it cost to fit a wood burner UK? ›
Budget approximately £1,300 – £1,600. Hearths – Hearths range from approximately £120 – £450 depending on material etc. Stoves – The stove being the most important aspect of the installation and one that you as the customer will enjoy. Budget £700+ for a good quality wood burning stove.
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Department of Environmental Quality : Frequently Asked Questions About Wood Stoves : Residential Resources : State of Oregon ›
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