Raw Land Development Cost Calculator
Calculate the true cost of buying and developing raw land. Includes well, septic, electric, road access, site prep, and all hidden costs.
Land Details
Development costs vary significantly by state
Distance from property to nearest power line (0 if at property)
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Fill out the form to calculate total development costs
Hidden Costs of Raw Land Development
Well Drilling
Drilling a well typically costs $15,000-$30,000 depending on depth and region. You won't know the exact cost until you drill. Some areas require 500+ foot wells.
Septic System
Septic systems cost $10,000-$25,000 depending on soil type. You MUST pass a perc test first. If soil fails, you may need an expensive alternative system.
Electric Hookup
Running power costs $15-$30 per foot. A property 1 mile from power could cost $80,000-$150,000+ just for electric. Always check utility distance before buying.
Road Access
Building a private road can cost $50,000-$100,000+. Even a simple gravel driveway costs $10,000-$20,000. Verify legal access before purchasing.
Site Preparation
Clearing trees, grading land, and preparing building site costs $5,000-$30,000 depending on terrain and forest cover. Steep or heavily wooded = much higher costs.
Permits & Studies
Environmental studies, surveys, soil tests, and permits add $5,000-$10,000. Some rural counties have minimal requirements, while others are very strict.
⚠️ Critical Warning
Many buyers purchase raw land without understanding development costs. It's common for development to cost 50-150% of the land purchase price. A $50,000 property could easily require $75,000-$150,000 in development costs before you can build. Always calculate total costs before buying.