How Much Does a Fireplace Cost?
A Complete Guide to Gas, Wood, and Electric Fireplace Prices—Plus What Installation Really Costs in Idaho
Adding a fireplace to your home is one of the most impactful upgrades you can make—for comfort, ambiance, home value, and even energy savings. But before you walk into a showroom, most homeowners want to know one thing: how much is this actually going to cost?
The honest answer? It depends. Fireplace costs vary widely based on the fuel type (gas, wood, or electric), the brand and model you choose, the complexity of your installation, and the finishing materials around the fireplace. A simple electric unit might run a few hundred dollars, while a premium gas linear fireplace with stone surround and mantel can reach $15,000 or more.
At Leisure Time Inc., we’ve been helping Idaho families choose, install, and enjoy fireplaces for over 40 years. In this guide, we’ll give you an honest breakdown of what fireplaces cost—unit prices, installation costs, operating costs, and the real-world price ranges you can expect from the brands we carry. We’ll also help you understand what drives costs up or down, so you can make the best decision for your home and budget.
The Quick Answer: What Does a Fireplace Cost?
Here’s a high-level overview of what you can expect to pay for a new fireplace—including the unit itself and a standard installation. Keep in mind that finishing materials like stone, tile, and mantels are additional.
| Fireplace Type | Unit Cost (Approx.) | Installed Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Gas (Direct Vent) | $2,000 – $8,000 | $3,500 – $12,000+ |
| Gas (Vent-Free) | $1,000 – $3,500 | $1,500 – $5,000 |
| Gas (Linear/Modern) | $3,500 – $10,000+ | $5,000 – $16,000+ |
| Wood-Burning (Prefab) | $1,500 – $5,000 | $3,000 – $8,000 |
| Wood-Burning (Masonry) | $5,000 – $15,000+ | $10,000 – $30,000+ |
| Electric (Wall/Built-In) | $500 – $5,000 | $500 – $6,000 |
| Electric (Plug-In) | $200 – $1,500 | $200 – $1,500 |
*Installed costs include unit, venting, gas/electrical work, and basic labor. Finishing (stone, tile, mantel) is additional and can range from $500 to $5,000+.
Gas Fireplaces: The Most Popular Choice
Gas fireplaces are by far the most popular fireplace type in new construction and remodeling projects. They offer instant flame at the push of a button (or a voice command), consistent and controllable heat, clean operation with no ash or soot, and the ability to work during power outages with most direct vent models. The cost of a gas fireplace depends heavily on the style, size, brand, and features you choose.
Traditional Gas Fireplaces
Traditional gas fireplaces mimic the look of a wood-burning fire with hand-painted ceramic logs, glowing embers, and a classic firebox design. These are the workhorses of the gas fireplace world—reliable, well-priced, and available from nearly every major brand. Heatilator’s Novus series is one of the best-selling gas fireplaces of all time, starting at roughly $2,000 for the unit. Their Caliber and Heirloom series step up with larger viewing areas, LED accent lighting, and advanced remote controls, ranging from approximately $3,300 to $6,100. Heat & Glo’s 6000 Series—a perennial best-seller—offers three tiers (C, CL, and CLX), from moderate heat and vibrant flames to anti-reflective glass and LED ember beds. Kozy Heat’s Bellingham and Springfield series offer excellent value, with traditional styling and EVO Elevated Burner technology for stunningly realistic flames.
Typical range: $2,000–$6,000 for the unit, $3,500–$10,000 installed.
Linear and Modern Gas Fireplaces
Linear fireplaces are the fastest-growing category in the industry. Their wide, rectangular viewing areas and ribbon-style flames create a sleek, contemporary look that’s perfect for modern homes. These fireplaces are often designed to be TV-friendly, with built-in heat management systems that allow you to mount a television just inches above the fireplace. Heat & Glo’s Mezzo series is one of the most popular linear fireplaces available, in 36-, 48-, 60-, and 72-inch widths, with a clean design and end-to-end ribbon flames. Their Primo II offers see-through and single-sided options. Heatilator’s Crave delivers modern luxury at an approachable price point—it’s one of the best values in the linear category. Kozy Heat’s Callaway series offers customizable linear fireplaces up to 72 inches wide with multiple heat distribution options. Valor’s L-Series (L1, L2, L3, LT1, LT2) is built on their signature radiant heat technology—delivering quiet, energy-efficient warmth without relying on a fan or electricity.
Typical range: $3,500–$10,000+ for the unit, $5,000–$16,000+ installed.
See-Through and Multi-Sided Gas Fireplaces
See-through fireplaces let you enjoy the fire from two rooms at once, while peninsula (three-sided) models work as dramatic room dividers. These are premium products—they require more engineering, more venting, and more finishing. Heat & Glo’s Primo II See-Through and Heatilator’s Twilight indoor/outdoor see-through are among the most sought-after in this category. Valor’s LX2 offers three-sided or corner views with radiant heat technology. European Home brings a high-end design perspective with models from Element4 (Netherlands) and Focus Fires (France), including striking suspended and panoramic designs that function as architectural centerpieces.
Typical range: $5,000–$16,000+ for the unit, $8,000–$20,000+ installed.
Valor fireplaces use radiant heat technology—the same principle as sunlight—to warm people and objects directly rather than heating the air. This means you feel warm even without a blower fan, and the fireplace operates silently. It’s one of the most energy-efficient heating approaches available, using approximately 25% less energy than forced-air systems.
Wood-Burning Fireplaces: The Real Deal
Nothing replicates the experience of a real wood fire—the crackle, the aroma, the dancing flames. Wood-burning fireplaces cost more to install and require more maintenance, but for many homeowners, the experience is worth every penny.
Prefabricated (Zero-Clearance) Wood Fireplaces
Prefabricated wood fireplaces are factory-built metal fireboxes designed to be framed directly into a wall during new construction or remodeling. They’re significantly less expensive than masonry construction because they don’t require a traditional brick chimney or concrete foundation—they vent through an insulated metal chimney chase. Heatilator’s Birmingham and Constitution are popular choices, starting from around $4,500 to $6,500 for the unit. Their Pioneer III features Smart Burn Technology for fuel-saving efficiency. Stûv—a Belgian brand renowned for contemporary design—offers the Stûv 21 series of zero-clearance wood fireplaces with a unique guillotine glass window that retracts for an open or closed fire experience. Stûv units come in multiple sizes (single and double-sided) and are priced as premium products, typically starting in the $5,000–$10,000+ range for the unit alone. HearthStone, handcrafted in Vermont, offers distinctive cast-iron zero-clearance fireplaces that combine traditional aesthetics with modern clean-burn technology.
Typical range: $1,500–$6,500 for the unit, $3,000–$10,000 installed (including chimney system).
Masonry Fireplaces
A traditional masonry fireplace—built from brick, stone, and mortar with a full masonry chimney—is the most expensive option. These are essentially custom construction projects that require a concrete foundation, skilled masons, and significant structural work. Most masonry fireplaces are built during new home construction, as retrofitting one into an existing home is extremely costly and complex.
Typical range: $10,000–$30,000+ installed, depending on size, materials, and regional labor costs.
If you love the look and experience of a real wood fire but want modern efficiency, ask about EPA 2020-certified fireplaces. Brands like Heatilator, Stûv, and HearthStone offer models that burn dramatically cleaner than traditional open fireplaces—producing more heat from less wood while meeting strict emissions standards.
Electric Fireplaces: The Easiest and Most Affordable Option
Electric fireplaces have come a long way from the cheap, flickering imitations of the past. Today’s premium models use advanced LED, LCD, and even mist-based technologies to create remarkably realistic flame effects. They require no venting, no gas line, and no chimney—which makes them the simplest and least expensive to install.
Heat & Glo’s Allusion Edge offers a clean modern design with digital flames that flicker and crackle over glowing logs. Kozy Heat’s Osseo eSeries comes in multiple sizes (29” to 80”) with 7 accent light options, 13 glowing ember choices, and convertible front-facing, corner, or panoramic bay configurations. European Home offers a premium electric lineup manufactured by Flamerite (UK), featuring ultra-realistic TrueFlame technology, app and voice control (Alexa/Google compatible), and stunning frameless designs—including the Linnea series starting around $4,900. Valor also offers electric fireplaces and British Fires models with realistic flames and easy installation.
| Electric Fireplace Type | Unit Cost | Installation Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Plug-In / Freestanding | $200 – $1,500 | Minimal (DIY) |
| Wall-Mounted / Recessed | $500 – $3,000 | $200 – $800 |
| Built-In Linear | $1,500 – $5,000+ | $500 – $2,000 |
| Premium Designer | $4,000 – $10,000+ | $1,000 – $3,000+ |
Electric fireplaces are an excellent choice for bedrooms, home offices, basements, and rooms where running a gas line or chimney isn’t practical. They’re also the only option in some condos and apartments where combustion fireplaces aren’t permitted.
What Does Fireplace Installation Actually Cost?
The unit price is only part of the equation. Installation costs can add 25% to 100%+ to the total project cost, depending on the complexity of the work. Here’s what drives those installation costs:
Venting and Chimney
Direct vent gas fireplaces need to be vented through an exterior wall or roof. Wood-burning fireplaces require a Class A chimney system. Venting typically costs $500–$2,500 depending on the run distance and route. A full chimney system for a wood-burning fireplace can run $2,000–$5,000 or more.
Gas Line Installation
If you don’t already have a gas line at the fireplace location, a licensed plumber will need to run one. Gas line installation typically costs $300–$1,500 depending on distance from the gas meter.
Electrical Work
Most gas fireplaces need an electrical connection for the ignition system, blower fan, and remote control. Electric fireplaces may need a dedicated circuit. Electrical work typically costs $150–$500.
Framing and Finishing
This is where costs can vary dramatically. Building the framing for a new fireplace, adding a surround (stone, tile, brick), mantel shelf, and hearth can add $500 to $5,000+ depending on materials and design complexity. A simple drywall surround is far less expensive than a floor-to-ceiling stacked stone installation.
Installation Cost Summary
| Installation Component | Typical Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Venting / Chimney | $500 – $5,000+ |
| Gas Line | $300 – $1,500 |
| Electrical | $150 – $500 |
| Framing / Drywall | $300 – $1,500 |
| Surround / Stone / Tile | $500 – $5,000+ |
| Mantel / Shelf | $200 – $2,000+ |
| Hearth / Floor Protection | $200 – $1,500 |
| Labor (Install + Finish) | $500 – $3,000+ |
Fireplace Brands We Carry at Leisure Time Inc.
At Leisure Time Inc., we’ve carefully selected our fireplace brands based on quality, efficiency, design range, and long-term reliability. Here’s a snapshot of the brands available in our showrooms:
| Brand | Fuel Types | Known For | Starting Price (Unit) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heat & Glo | Gas, Wood, Electric | Innovation, variety, TV-safe designs | ~$2,000+ |
| Heatilator | Gas, Wood, Electric | Builder-grade to premium, best value | ~$1,100+ |
| Kozy Heat | Gas, Wood, Electric | Realistic EVO burners, made in USA | ~$2,500+ |
| Valor | Gas, Electric | Radiant heat, no fan needed, silent | ~$3,000+ |
| Stûv | Wood | Belgian design, open/closed fire | ~$5,000+ |
| European Home | Gas, Wood, Electric | Modern/luxury, Element4, Focus | ~$4,000+ |
| HearthStone | Wood, Gas | Vermont craftsmanship, soapstone | ~$3,500+ |
| Quadra-Fire* | Wood, Gas, Pellet | Durable cast iron, efficient | ~$2,000+ |
| Vermont Castings* | Wood, Gas | Classic cast iron, American heritage | ~$2,000+ |
| Harman* | Pellet, Wood | Pellet technology leader | ~$2,500+ |
*Quadra-Fire, Vermont Castings, and Harman (by Forge & Flame) are primarily known for stoves and inserts. See our showrooms for available models.
What Does It Cost to Operate a Fireplace?
Beyond the purchase and installation, you’ll have ongoing operating costs. How much you spend depends on your fuel type and how often you use your fireplace.
| Fuel Type | Monthly Fuel Cost | Annual Maintenance | Chimney/Vent Service |
|---|---|---|---|
| Natural Gas | $10 – $30 | $100 – $200 | Annual inspection |
| Propane | $20 – $50 | $100 – $200 | Annual inspection |
| Wood | $50 – $150+ | $200 – $400+ | Annual sweep + inspect |
| Electric | $5 – $20 | Minimal | None required |
Idaho’s natural gas rates are below the national average, making gas fireplaces particularly affordable to operate here. Idaho Falls Power and Idaho Power customers benefit from some of the lowest energy costs in the country—great news whether you choose gas or electric.
7 Tips to Get the Best Value on Your Fireplace
- Define your primary goal: Are you buying for ambiance, supplemental heat, or primary heat? This determines the fuel type, efficiency, and budget.
- Visit a showroom before buying online: Fireplaces are experiential. Seeing the flame quality, feeling the heat output, and touching the materials in person makes a huge difference.
- Factor in installation from the start: A $3,000 fireplace can easily become a $7,000 project once you add venting, gas line, electrical, and finishing. Budget for the total installed cost.
- Don’t cheap out on venting: Proper venting is a safety and performance essential. Always use manufacturer-specified venting components installed by a qualified professional.
- Consider the long-term operating cost: A more efficient fireplace may cost more upfront but save you money every month in fuel and maintenance.
- Ask about TV-safe models: If you plan to mount a television above your fireplace, make sure the model has built-in heat management. Heat & Glo, Heatilator, and Kozy Heat all offer TV-compatible models.
- Work with a local dealer: A qualified local dealer will handle permitting, installation, and warranty service—and help you avoid costly mistakes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the cheapest fireplace to install?
A plug-in electric fireplace is the least expensive option—many models cost under $500 and require no professional installation at all. Among gas fireplaces, Heatilator’s Novus series offers one of the best entry price points for a quality direct vent unit.
Is a gas fireplace cheaper than wood-burning?
Generally, yes—both to install and operate. Gas fireplaces don’t require a full chimney system, produce no ash or creosote, and cost less per month to run in Idaho. The one area where wood can be cheaper is fuel cost if you have free access to firewood.
Do fireplaces add value to a home?
Yes. Studies consistently show that a fireplace can add $1,000 to $5,000+ in resale value, and homes with fireplaces often sell faster. Gas fireplaces are the most universally appealing to buyers.
Can I install a fireplace in an existing home?
Absolutely. Direct vent gas fireplaces and electric fireplaces can be installed in most existing homes with relatively minimal construction. Zero-clearance models can be framed into virtually any wall. Wood-burning fireplaces require more extensive work, including a chimney system.
How much does it cost to run a gas line to a fireplace?
Typically $300 to $1,500, depending on the distance from your gas meter to the fireplace location. Shorter runs through accessible areas cost less; longer runs through finished walls cost more.
What brands does Leisure Time Inc. carry?
We carry Heat & Glo, Heatilator, Kozy Heat, Valor, Stûv, European Home, HearthStone, Quadra-Fire, Vermont Castings, and Harman. Visit our showrooms in Boise, Idaho Falls, or Twin Falls to see these brands on display.
At Leisure Time Inc., we carry one of the largest fireplace selections in Idaho. Whether you’re building a new home, renovating an existing space, or simply looking to add warmth and ambiance, our team will help you find the right fireplace at the right price—and handle the installation from start to finish.
Your fireplace should be the heart of your home—let us help you make it happen.
Browse Fireplaces: leisuretimeinc.com/collections/fireplaces
Shop Fireplace Accessories: shop.leisuretimeinc.com
Kozy Heat Collection: leisuretimeinc.com/collections/kozy-heat
Locations: leisuretimeinc.com/pages/locations
