Replacing an outdoor faucet spigot (also called a garden hose bib) typically runs a few hundred dollars. On average, homeowners pay about $200–$400 for a professional to swap in a new outdoor faucet. In general, the total cost falls roughly between $150 and $600, depending on the situation. Key factors include the type of spigot, the labor involved, and any extra work (like permits or plumbing changes).
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Materials: The replacement faucet itself usually costs $10–$100 (basic hose bibs are on the low end, while frost-free or specialty faucets cost more).
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Labor: Hiring a plumber often runs $50–$150 per hour, plus a service fee. Simple jobs may take 1–2 hours, so labor can add $100–$300 or more.
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Permits & Extras: In many areas a basic spigot swap doesn’t need a permit, but if code requires one (especially for major plumbing work), expect another $50–$200. Also consider any wall repairs or new piping, which can add to the price.
In practice, most homeowners see a total bill around $150–$450 for a straight swap. Prices tend to be higher in expensive areas (for example, a San Jose, CA estimate is about $150–$450) and lower in rural areas. Basic outside faucets cost less, while frost‑proof or anti‑siphon models cost more.
What affects the outdoor faucet spigot replacement cost?
Several factors influence the final price of an outdoor faucet replacement:
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Spigot type: A simple hose bib or standard outdoor faucet is cheapest to replace. More complex models cost extra. For example, a frost‑free (freeze-proof) faucet extends deeper into the wall and typically costs more (around $250–$400 installed) than a basic spigot. An anti‑siphon spigot (built‑in backflow preventer) runs about $260–$450. (High-end outdoor fixtures like yard hydrants or shower setups cost much more – sometimes $500–$1,000 – but a simple spigot is usually under $400.)
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Accessibility and complexity: If the old faucet is easy to reach (for example, just unscrews from an exposed pipe), labor is minimal. But if pipes must be accessed through a wall, concrete, or tight crawlspace, the plumber must spend more time. Difficult locations or corroded fittings can push labor costs higher.
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Additional plumbing: Needing a new water line or extra piping adds hundreds of dollars. Adding fresh water line can cost about $50–$150 per linear foot. Minor repairs or pipe rerouting will raise the bill accordingly.
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Permits and codes: Most simple faucet swaps do not require a permit, but rules vary by locality. If local building codes demand one (especially if you’re altering plumbing near electrical or gas), add around $50–$200 to the cost. It’s best to check local requirements before you start.
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Time of year: In freezing climates, many people replace spigots in late spring or summer. Busy summer seasons or union labor areas may have higher rates, so off-season hiring can sometimes save on hourly costs.
In summary, basic outdoor faucet replacements often cost $150–$300 if no complications arise, but expect $300–$500 or more if special fixtures or conditions apply.
Outdoor faucet spigot types and their costs
Different styles of outdoor faucets affect price. Here are common types with typical installed costs:
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Standard hose bib / ball‑valve faucet: This is the most common “outside spigot” with a simple round or lever handle. Replacement cost is usually about $150–$350 total. (Materials alone are only $10–$40; the rest is labor.)
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Anti-siphon faucet: Similar to a hose bib but with a built-in backflow preventer. It prevents garden water from flowing back into the clean water supply. Installation typically costs around $260–$450, since these models are slightly pricier and more involved.
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Frost-free (freeze-proof) spigot: These extend farther into the wall so they drain out in winter. They cost more—often $250–$400 installed—because the valve sits inside the house and requires careful installation.
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High-end setups: Although not “simple spigots,” note that things like yard hydrants (far-outdoor water taps) or outdoor showers/sinks can be very expensive (anywhere from $500 to $3,000+ for complex installs).
These variations explain why quotes can differ widely. In practice, a typical outdoor faucet (hose bib) swap is on the low end of these ranges, unless you’re upgrading to a specialty fixture.
DIY vs. hiring a plumber for faucet replacement
Many homeowners choose to save on labor by doing a simple spigot swap themselves. With basic tools, replacing an outdoor faucet is often straightforward. As one Cyclone Plumbing USA guide explains, most outdoor faucets “simply screw onto a threaded pipe”, so you just shut off the water and unscrew the old faucet. A new spigot (matching the pipe size) screws on in its place after wrapping the threads with plumber’s tape. The entire job can take as little as 30 minutes if the old spigot comes off easily.
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DIY costs: You’ll mainly pay for the new faucet (about $10–$40 for a standard hose bib) and possibly some plumbing tape or sealant. This can make DIY replacement very cheap, since you save the plumber’s hourly charge. Be sure to turn off the home’s water supply before starting. However, if the old spigot is frozen in place with rust or set in concrete, DIY removal can be tricky and time-consuming.
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Professional costs: Hiring a licensed plumber guarantees the work is done correctly and code‑compliant. For a pro, a simple spigot swap might be a one‑hour job, so expect a service call fee plus labor. Many plumbers charge $50–$150 per hour, and sometimes a minimum fee (e.g. $100 for the first hour). So a plumber might quote $150–$300 for the job, including the part. The benefit is peace of mind: no leaks, and any permit or inspection is handled for you.
In summary, DIY will cost only the price of the part (often under $50), while hiring a plumber adds labor costs (hundreds of dollars). For most basic faucets, DIY is doable if you’re handy and have the right tools. If you’re unsure, getting a quote from a local plumber can help you decide.
Need Help with Outdoor Faucet Replacement?
At Cyclone Plumbing USA, we make outdoor faucet replacement fast, affordable, and stress-free. Whether your spigot is leaking, frozen, or outdated, our licensed plumbers can diagnose the problem and install a new one that fits your needs and local codes.
Why choose Cyclone Plumbing USA?
✅ Transparent pricing with upfront quotes
✅ Skilled, licensed plumbers you can trust
✅ Fast same-day service available in many areas
✅ Experience with all types of outdoor faucets—standard, frost-proof, anti-siphon, and more
✅ Free consultation and honest recommendations
We serve homeowners Orange County and nearby areas with dependable plumbing services such as Hydro Jetting, Water Heater Repair, Sewer Video Camera Inspection, Drain Cleaning, and everything related plumbing . If you’re unsure what type of outdoor faucet you need—or if your leak could be a sign of a deeper issue—let us take a look before it turns into a costly repair.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I repair a leaky outdoor spigot instead of replacing it?
A: Sometimes a small leak is due to a worn washer or packing nut, which can be fixed for under $50. But if the faucet itself is old, corroded, or malfunctioning, replacement is usually a better value. Replacing the entire spigot not only stops leaks for good, it often costs only a bit more than a simple repair – typically in the $150+ range.
Q: How long does it take to replace an outdoor faucet spigot?
A: For an experienced DIYer or plumber, swapping a spigot usually takes 30 minutes to 1 hour for a straightforward job. Complex installs (cutting stucco, chasing pipe inside wall) can take longer. If a pro is doing it, they may book a 1–2 hour service call; for DIYers, allow an afternoon in case of stuck fittings or unexpected issues.
Q: Do I need a permit to replace an outdoor spigot?
A: In most areas, a simple faucet replacement does not require a permit. Simple spigot swaps typically do not need permits. However, if the job involves new plumbing lines, rerouting your water supply, or other building work, local codes often do require permits (typically $50–$200 extra). When in doubt, check with your city’s building department before hiring a pro.
Q: What is a frost‑free (freeze‑proof) spigot, and why is it more expensive?
A: A frost‑free spigot (or sillcock) extends 6–12 inches into the wall so that the shut-off valve is actually inside your home. This design prevents water from sitting in the exposed part of the faucet, avoiding freezing in winter. Because they are longer and have an interior valve, frost‑free faucets cost more to replace – usually around $250–$400 installed, compared to $150–$300 for a basic exterior faucet.
Q: How can I save money on replacing an outdoor spigot?
A: The biggest savings come from doing it yourself. Buying the faucet and installing it on your own can cut out labor costs. Also, compare part prices: a generic hose bib is much cheaper than a premium brand. If hiring out, get multiple quotes. Scheduling the work outside peak season (late fall or early spring) can sometimes yield a better rate. Finally, ensure you really need a new spigot – if the interior plumbing is fine, swapping just the faucet heads off a threaded pipe is simpler than re-piping or major work.
Q: What does it mean when we say “hose bib”?
A: “Hose bib” is just another term for an outdoor faucet spigot. It refers to the threaded part where you attach a garden hose. So replacing a hose bib means the same as replacing an outdoor faucet spigot.
Q: Is it cheaper to replace an outdoor spigot or to install a whole new outdoor faucet line?
A: Replacing an existing spigot (on the same pipe stub) is generally affordable ($150–$600). Installing a brand new outdoor faucet line (running new pipe from scratch) is far more expensive – often thousands of dollars – because it involves significant plumbing work. If your old faucet and pipe are in good shape, it’s much cheaper to just replace the spigot itself.
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