Small Ecosystem Pond
- Size
- 8 x 11 ft
- Price Range
- $7,000 to $10,000
- Best For
- First-time pond owners, compact yards
Honest Numbers, No Surprises
Pond Cost on Long Island
How Much Does a Pond Cost on Long Island? 2026 Pricing Guide
One of the first questions Long Island homeowners ask us is: what is this going to cost? It's a fair question, and we believe in giving you straight answers. Pond pricing varies based on size, materials, filtration systems, and site conditions, but the ranges below reflect what you can realistically expect from a fully installed, professional-grade water feature in Nassau County.
Scott Anderson Design handles projects ranging from under $10,000 to $250,000 and above for large estate installations. Every project is custom-quoted after a free on-site visit.
By the Numbers
2026 Installation Price Ranges
| Comparison | Small Ecosystem Pond | Medium Koi Pond | Large Custom Pond | Pondless Waterfall |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 8 x 11 ft | 11 x 16 ft | 16 x 21 ft and up | 3 to 18 ft stream |
| Price Range | $7,000 to $10,000 | $10,000 to $18,000 | $18,000 to $35,000 and above | $4,000 to $10,000 |
| Best For | First-time pond owners, compact yards | Fish enthusiasts, entertaining spaces | Estate properties, aquascape enthusiasts | Families with young children, low-maintenance |
Medium Koi Pond
- Size
- 11 x 16 ft
- Price Range
- $10,000 to $18,000
- Best For
- Fish enthusiasts, entertaining spaces
Large Custom Pond
- Size
- 16 x 21 ft and up
- Price Range
- $18,000 to $35,000 and above
- Best For
- Estate properties, aquascape enthusiasts
Pondless Waterfall
- Size
- 3 to 18 ft stream
- Price Range
- $4,000 to $10,000
- Best For
- Families with young children, low-maintenance
All prices are fully installed and include labor, filtration, pump, liner, Long Island boulders, and gravel. Prices reflect standard installations. Complex sites with difficult access, extensive excavation, or premium stonework may be higher.
The Variables
What Affects the Price?
Depth & Volume
Deeper ponds require more excavation, larger liners, and more powerful pump and filtration systems. A 24-inch minimum depth is recommended for overwintering koi in Long Island's Zone 7 climate. Going deeper adds cost but adds protection for your fish.
Filtration System
The biological filter and skimmer are the heart of a healthy ecosystem pond. Premium Aquascape commercial-grade systems last longer and require less maintenance than entry-level alternatives. We only install systems we stand behind.
Stonework & Boulders
Natural Long Island boulders and moss rock create the authentic, naturalistic look our ponds are known for. More elaborate stone compositions, stacked walls, terracing, stream channels, add both beauty and cost. Stone is the single biggest variable in custom projects.
Lighting
Submersible LED lights and underwater spotlights transform your pond after dark. Lighting packages typically add $500 to $2,500 to the base installation cost depending on the number of fixtures and whether you are lighting both the waterfall and the pond floor.
Fish Stocking
Koi and goldfish can be added as part of the installation or sourced separately. High-quality koi from reputable breeders range from $20 for standard fish to $500 and above for premium butterfly koi. We can advise on appropriate stocking levels for your pond's bioload.
Site Access & Conditions
Difficult access, narrow gates, slopes, existing hardscape, requires more labor. Rocky or clay-heavy soil on Long Island may require additional excavation equipment. We assess site conditions thoroughly during your free consultation before quoting.
Project Scope
What Can I Get at Different Budgets?
Under $10,000
The Entry Point
A well-designed small ecosystem pond or compact pondless waterfall. You'll get a complete Aquascape filtration system, natural Long Island stone, and a self-sustaining water feature that requires minimal maintenance. Perfect for homeowners who want to test the water before committing to a larger project.
$10,000 to $20,000
The Sweet Spot
This is where most Nassau County homeowners land. A medium koi pond with a waterfall, biological filtration, naturalistic boulders, and room for 8 to 12 koi. You can add a stream, upgraded lighting, or aquatic planting at this level without breaking the budget.
$20,000 to $50,000
The Full Experience
Large ecosystem ponds, multi-tiered waterfalls, integrated streams, premium stonework, and full landscape integration. These projects transform a backyard into a destination. We handle permitting, site prep, construction, planting, and fish stocking, all under one roof.
$50,000 to $250,000 and above
Estate-Level Installations
Scott Anderson Design regularly designs and builds estate water features for Long Island's luxury properties: multi-pond systems, resort-style poolscapes with integrated water features, and full backyard transformations combining ponds, patios, outdoor kitchens, and lighting. Scott's architectural background gives him a unique edge for projects of this scale.
Explore Further
Related Pages
Start the conversationTell us about the yard.
Tell us about the yard.
We will tell you what is possible in it.
Every project starts the same way: Scott walks the property, listens, and sketches. No pressure, no template. Consultations across Nassau County are free.