The cost of single-mode fiber optic cable typically ranges from $0.10 to $7 per foot, depending on cable type, strand count, and installation requirements.

Material Costs

For single-mode fiber optic cables, the raw cable cost generally falls between $0.10 and $0.50 per foot for standard indoor or outdoor runs, with bulk purchases sometimes reducing the price to $0.09 per foot. Higher-end cables, such as pre-terminated assemblies, armored cables, or cables with multiple strands, can cost $2 to $7 per foot . For example, a simple 1-core drop cable may cost around $0.13 per foot, while a 12-strand cable can run approximately $0.50 per foot, and a 24-strand cable may reach $1 per foot .

Installation Costs

If you include installation, costs increase significantly. Typical indoor runs with minimal termination may cost $2,650–$3,100 for 1,000 feet, while outdoor runs with conduit, multiple terminations, or armored cable can range from $4,940 to $14,500 for 2,000–5,000 feet . Labor, trenching, permits, and accessories are major contributors to the total cost. Installation methods such as open trench, directional boring, or aerial attachment also affect pricing, ranging from $0.90 to $7 per foot depending on complexity and terrain .

Factors Affecting Price

• Cable Type: Single-mode is cheaper per foot than multimode but requires precise splicing and more expensive equipment .
• Strand Count: More strands increase cost proportionally.
• Environment: Indoor plenum-rated cables cost less than outdoor armored or direct-burial cables.
• Length and Bulk: Buying longer reels (e.g., 10,000 ft) can reduce per-foot cost by ~20% compared to shorter reels .
• Connectors and Pre-Termination: Factory-terminated cables are more expensive than raw cable.

Summary

For a 100Mbps single-mode fiber optic cable, expect to pay roughly $0.10–$0.50 per foot for basic cable, and $2–$7 per foot for higher-spec or pre-terminated options. Including installation, the total cost can rise to $2.50–$7 per foot depending on project complexity, environment, and labor requirements .