How Much Does a Splash Pad Cost?


Written by:  Howmuchisit.org Staff

Splash pads are basically playgrounds that incorporate water to create a fun and wet atmosphere, making water play safer since there is less of a risk for accidents like drowning.

There are many setups that can be used and each one can have different features.  Ground nozzles, on most splash pads, will spray either freshwater or treated water upwards out of the rain deck.  The nozzles are controlled by sensors or can be run on timers.  Some splash pads have moveable nozzles and may also include different types of showers and other features.

Solo Gibbs Splash Pad by BCRP, on Flickr
Solo Gibbs Splash Pad” (CC BY 2.0) by  BCRP

How much does a splash pad cost?

Depending on the setup that you want, the costs to install a residential splash pad can vary anywhere from $4,000 to as much as $35,000.  However, most residential splash pads can cost around $6,000 to $12,000.  The costs depend on the size, surfaces, options, and other provisions such as electric work and excavation.   Since every job will be unique, it can be hard to pinpoint an exact cost, and for that reason, we recommend you get multiple quotes for free by using HomeAdvisor.com.  Here, you simply explain your job and licensed contractors will contact you will their quotes for free.

According to SplashPadLLC.com, most residential splash pads can range anywhere from $8,000 to $20,000, while a small commercial splash pad can cost around $30,000.

If you do not want to purchase one, but rather visit one, the price of admission to a splash park is generally around $1 to $5 per person.  Many splash pads also offer rentals for the day.  For instance, the Columbia City Parks and Recreation offer free use of the splash pad during summer.  Just take note of the schedule for free use.  On the other hand, the splash pad can be rented during weekdays at $50.

For commercial pads, the costs researched varied anywhere from $41 to as much as $61 per square foot.

Those who want to do it on their own can purchase pre-made splash pad kits online for about $1,900 to $3,000.  This price, however, won’t include installation fees.

Splash pad overview

According to Splashpadllc.com, splash pads can fit anywhere, from small backyards to large areas in a park. There are play pads which are generally bigger than landscape pads.  Residential splash pads are around 150 square feet.

You can incorporate a splash park or a waterpark feel with waterfalls, grottos, and other features.  All splash pads can be unique and 100 percent customizable.

Splash pads are usually lined with non-slip soft material so that the kids will not slip and fall while running around.

There are many features that splash pads can offer.  There will be multiple fixtures that will squirt water in different ways, whether it is a stream or a spray.  These can be activated by people running by or can be timed to go off every so often.  There are also squirt guns that can be used by the kids to squirt others as they go by.  There may be some type of play structure for the kids to climb, or all the features may just be on the ground.  These are just a few of the features that are offered.

At some splash pads, there are separate areas for toddlers so that they are safe from the bigger kids running around.

Check out splash pads that have a built-in water system which treats and recycles water to avoid water waste.

What are the extra costs?

Regular use of a splash pad will incur you additional charges on your water and electricity consumption. However, it is relatively minimal compared to running a swimming pool.  The average costs, if you were to run it six hours per day, would be about an extra $30 per month in electricity.

There is less maintenance required for a splash pad than a swimming pool as well.  Some regions will require sessions on winterization (October) and start-up (April) to help keep the pad in good shape.

Regular cleaning and monitoring can be requested every year and would cost you additional charges.

Some facilities renting splash pads would require donations at a nominal cost.

Additional add-ons such as UV-resistant surfaces can cost slightly more.  Other add-ons can include waterfalls, pools, landscaping, etc.

Depending on the complexity of the setup, the average electricity bill may go up 5 to 10%.

Local ordinances may require permits while the splash pad is being built.

Before a splash pad is installed, an electrician may have to be hired to run a hook-up to the pump.

How can I save money?

If you want to save money, you can opt to rent a splash pad instead of having one installed in your home.  Check out online sites for areas that offer discounts or promos such as free rentals so that you can save on rental costs. You can also ask some friends around for referrals.

If you are set on having one installed in your yard, always make sure that you get a handful of quotes from local licensed and insured contractors.

If you are considering taking your child to a city splash pad, check for specials.  There are usually days that city residents can come free or special hours during the weekdays that you can get discounts.


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