According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost to have a drain professionally snaked is $220, with a range of $136 to $305.
Across the nation, if you were going to hire a professional plumber, the average amount you can expect to spend is approximately $250. However, if your clog is minor, plumbers may charge as little as $100. Of course, if your clog is substantially more complex, this could increase your costs to upwards of $400.
A drain snake is used to physically remove blockages. This method can take anywhere from fifteen minutes to almost an hour, depending on how complex your clog is. For more severe or deeper blockages, your plumber might use hydro-jetting.
According to data collected by homewyse.com, the average drain cleaning job—including the cost of any supplies and labor—will run a homeowner between $100-$300. The reason for the variability in price comes down to the type of clog and how much time is required to fully clear it.
Unclog a Main Drain
If the main drain is clogged with other drains, expect to spend $350 to $650 to clear that drain. If the clog is more difficult or the main drain is hard to access, the cost could go into the thousands due to excavation, labor, and other expenses.
Factors Influencing Drain Cleaning Costs
A simple clog caused by hair or soap buildup can be resolved quickly, resulting in a lower cost. However, severe blockages caused by tree roots, grease buildup, or foreign objects may require more intensive work and specialized equipment, leading to higher charges.
Roto-Rooter's most popular service is clearing sewer lines using an auger strong enough to cut through tree roots. This service typically costs $400 to $600. Unclogging a branch line, or plumbing within the home, costs $350 to $500 on average. The technician uses a smaller auger to snake a drain in your home.
Salt and Baking Soda
Salt is a cost-effective alternative that works well for minor clogs. Mixing half a cup of table salt with baking soda and pouring it down the drain before adding boiling water can help break down grease and debris.
Hydro jetting costs $475 on average but range from $350 to $600. A plumber can give you a quote and get rid of your sewer clog. Having to keep your plumber on speed dial is no fun for any homeowner. If chronic sewer clogs are giving you issues, it might be time to call in the big guns.
Average Flat Rate
Some plumbing jobs are billed at a flat rate. As of 2025, the average plumber rates for larger repairs are typically between $500 to $800, while smaller jobs like repairing toilets, sinks, faucets, or bathtubs typically range from $125 to $350.
If your snake isn't unclogging your drains, it could be because the thumbscrew is loose, the clog is too severe, or the auger is dirty. Or maybe you just need a refresher on how to use a drain snake. A drain auger (snake) is a simple, inexpensive necessity for every homeowner.
Frequency of Cleanings
Upon a quick internet search to find out how often you should be cleaning your drains, you will get many different answers. Some people say weekly, bi-monthly or quarterly. However, we feel that cleaning your drains monthly should be sufficient to avoid major plumbing issues.
According to Forbes, the average cost of a sewer camera inspection in 2022 was $280. On the low end, it could cost as little as $70. While the average price range was between $125 and $500, some inspections cost up to $900 depending on rates, the scope of services provided, and the state or city.
A drain snake's cable could range from 25 to 50 feet long. In some instances, electric snakes are used to dig as deep as 75 feet.
Why is hydro jetting so expensive? Hydro jetting is usually pricier than other options, including snaking and chemical drain cleaners. This is because there is expensive technology, plus a very advanced level of skill required.
The cost of drain cleaning averages about $241, but it can fall between $147 and $344, depending on the location and extent of your clog. There is nothing like a backed-up drain to derail your plans. Luckily, there are different solutions that will have you—and your pipes—back on the move in no time.
Typically, professional plumbers will start with a snake, since most clogs are relatively minor. But hydro jetting may be the best option for clogs in multiple drains or severe clogs that continue to recur.
You'll likely pay between $300 and $450 to unclog your toilet with Roto-Rooter. However, the price could change depending on if the clog has caused a lot of damage, which your plumbing pro will want to inspect during your service appointment. Keep in mind that you won't get a quote from Roto-Rooter over the phone.
Allowing the baking soda and vinegar mixture to sit in the drain for an extended period, such as overnight, can improve its effectiveness. The prolonged contact with the clog helps break down the build-up more thoroughly, making it easier to flush away with hot water the following morning.
How Much Does it Cost to Snake a Drain? On average, the cost to snake a drain can range from $100 to $300. However, keep in mind that this is just an estimate, and prices may vary depending on the factors.
Once the hydro jetting hose is inserted into the pipe, they'll begin to pump 20 gallons of water per minute into the pipe. Hydro jetting appointments can take a few minutes to a few hours depending on the severity of the clog.
If the Roto-Rooter machine can't get through the pipe, your service technician can request a video camera inspection of the sewer pipeline to ascertain where the blockage is and its cause. A trained eye will then be able to recommend repair options to the homeowner.