How Much Does an Electrician Cost?
Electrician costs depend on the scope of work, your location, and the complexity of your electrical system. Expect $50–$130 per hour in the US, PLN 80–250 per hour in Poland, and €55–€100 per hour in the Netherlands. A simple outlet installation runs $150–$300, while a full panel upgrade can cost $1,500–$4,000+.
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Browse providersAverage electrician costs by job type
| Job type | Typical cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Outlet or switch installation | $150–$300 |
| Light fixture installation | $100–$250 |
| Ceiling fan installation | $150–$400 |
| Circuit breaker replacement | $150–$350 |
| Panel upgrade (100A to 200A) | $1,500–$4,000 |
| Whole-house rewiring | $8,000–$20,000+ |
| EV charger installation | $500–$2,500 |
| Smoke/CO detector installation | $100–$200 per unit |
Sources: HomeAdvisor 2025 cost data, Angi service pricing reports.
What affects the cost?
- Permit requirements — electrical work almost always requires a permit, adding $50–$500+
- Panel capacity — upgrades needed if your panel can't handle additional circuits
- Wall access — running new wire through finished walls costs more than open-stud work
- Emergency service — after-hours electrical emergencies run 1.5x–2x standard rates
- Code compliance — older homes may need upgrades to meet current NEC or local code
- License tier — master electricians charge more than journeymen
Costs by country
Electrician costs in the United States
US electricians charge $50–$130 per hour, with a service call fee of $50–$100 typical. Licensed electricians in high-cost metros (NYC, SF, LA, Boston) charge $100–$150+/hour. In smaller markets, $50–$75/hour is common. Most states require electrical work permits — your electrician should pull these as part of the job.
For larger projects, electricians typically provide a flat-rate quote based on a site inspection. Always verify the electrician is licensed and insured. The Inflation Reduction Act provides tax credits for certain electrical upgrades (EV chargers, heat pump wiring, panel upgrades), which can offset costs.
How to save on electrical work
- Bundle multiple jobs — have the electrician handle several tasks in one visit
- Schedule non-emergency work during business hours
- Get 3+ quotes for any job over $500
- Check for rebates and tax credits — many energy-efficient upgrades qualify
- Know your panel's capacity — this speeds up quoting and avoids surprises
Learn about the trade
How to become an electrician: training programs, licensing exams, salary data, and career paths in the US, Poland, and the Netherlands.
How to become a electrician