How Much Does Repiping a House Cost in 2026? PEX, Copper, CPVC
Bottom line: Repiping a house in 2026 typically costs **$4,500–$15,000** for a standard 1,500–2,500 sq ft home, depending on material and access. **PEX** is the cheapest and fastest at **$4,500–$10,000**. **Copper** runs **$8,000–$18,000** with longer install time and higher material cost. **CPVC** sits between at **$5,500–$12,000**. The largest cost variables are home size, number of fixtures, number of stories, and wall access (drywall vs. plaster vs. slab construction). These prices cover plumbing work; expect to add **$1,500–$4,000** for drywall repair and painting.
PEX (cross-linked polyethylene): cheapest, freeze-resistant, flexible (fewer joints). PEX comes in types A, B, and C. PEX-A (e.g., Uponor) is the most flexible and uses robust expansion fittings, making it a premium choice. PEX-B is more common and uses crimp fittings. Copper: 50–70 year lifespan, premium feel, biostatic properties inhibit bacteria, but $4–$8/ft material vs. PEX at $0.50–$1.50/ft. It is susceptible to pinhole leaks in areas with highly acidic or alkaline water. CPVC: cheaper than copper, but brittle with age, less tolerant of freezing, and not approved in all jurisdictions for whole-house use.
Pricing roughly scales with fixture count: $650–$1,500 per fixture (sink, toilet, tub, shower, washing machine, dishwasher, ice maker, hose bib, water heater). A typical 3-bedroom 2-bath home has 12–15 fixtures. For a 2,400 sq ft home with two full baths, a powder room, kitchen sink, dishwasher, refrigerator line, and laundry, you have 14 fixtures. At an average of $850/fixture for PEX, the base plumbing cost would be around $11,900 before any complex access challenges or drywall repair.
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