Economical study of humidification-dehumidification desalination (HDD) pilot plant was made in order to estimate the economic benefits of the process in comparison with a small-scale reverse osmosis (RO) system. The energy recovery of the unit was investigated to be 75%. Some theoretical modifications were made to the HDD system in order to reduce the energy costs of the unit. Exact and clear economic analysis results were obtained using COMFAR III software including fixed investment costs, production costs, internal rate of return on investment, operating costs, energy costs and some other economical parameters. Based on the energy prices in Iran, the total fresh water production cost was calculated to be $ 6.4/m(3) that was nearly the same as produced by an imported RO plant. Finally some points were recommended whether to choose HDD or RO plant in different cases and capacities. (C) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.