The answer to 'how much does water softener cost' is that the cost of a water softener can vary widely depending on several factors. In general, you can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $5,000 or more for a new water softener system, including installation.
The main factors that influence the cost of a water softener include the size and type of system, the complexity of the installation, the water hardness level in your home, and whether you need to replace existing plumbing. Higher-end models with more features and greater capacity will be on the higher end of the price range. Additionally, the cost of professional installation by a licensed plumber can add several hundred dollars to the total project cost.