Electrician Cost Guide 2026
What to expect to pay, what drives costs up or down, and how to get an accurate estimate.
Typical cost
$85 – $150per hour
Service calls: $85–$200. Panel upgrade (200A): $1,800–$4,000. Whole-house rewire: $8,000–$20,000. EV charger install: $500–$2,000. Always get written estimates.
What affects electrician cost
Service calls: $85–$200. Panel upgrade (200A): $1,800–$4,000. Whole-house rewire: $8,000–$20,000. EV charger install: $500–$2,000. Always get written estimates.
About electrician projects
Electrical work requires licensed professionals for safety and code compliance. Electricians handle panel upgrades, circuit installation, outlet and switch work, lighting installation, EV charger installation, whole-house rewiring, and generator hookups. Most states require electricians to hold a state electrical license, and permits are required for virtually all electrical work beyond simple fixture replacements. Hiring an unlicensed person for electrical work creates serious fire and safety risks and can void your homeowners insurance. Panel upgrades from 100-amp to 200-amp service are increasingly common as homes add EV chargers, heat pumps, and additional circuits.
How to keep electrician costs in check
- ✓Ask for the electrician's state electrical license number and verify it's current.
- ✓Confirm they pull electrical permits and schedule required inspections.
- ✓Get a detailed estimate specifying wire gauge, circuit breaker sizes, and fixture allowances.
- ✓Ask about their experience with your specific project type (panel upgrade, rewire, EV charger, etc.).
Cost FAQ
What is the average cost of electrician work?
The average cost ranges from $85 to $150 per hour. Service calls: $85–$200. Panel upgrade (200A): $1,800–$4,000. Whole-house rewire: $8,000–$20,000. EV charger install: $500–$2,000. Always get written estimates.
Why do contractor estimates vary so much?
Material quality, project complexity, local labor rates, and contractor overhead all affect pricing. A 30–50% variance between bids on the same project usually means different scopes — get line-item estimates and compare carefully.
How can I lower the cost without sacrificing quality?
Schedule during off-peak times (spring and fall are busiest for most trades). Get 3+ competing bids. Avoid making scope changes after work starts. Supply your own materials if you can find better pricing (discuss with contractor first).
Does homeowner's insurance cover this work?
Typically only if the damage is sudden and accidental (storm, fire, burst pipe). Routine maintenance, wear and tear, and improvements are not covered. Check your policy for specifics.
Find a licensed electrician contractor near you
Browse verified local contractors in your area.
Browse Electrician contractors