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, €55–€100 per hour in the Netherlands, and around 30 to 55 euros per hour in Spain. A simple outlet installation runs $150–$300, while a full panel upgrade can cost $1,500–$4,000+.
Average 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.
Electrician costs in Poland
Polish electricians charge PLN 80–250 per hour depending on the city and specialization. Warsaw and major cities command the highest rates. Simple jobs like adding an outlet may cost PLN 100–300 total. A full apartment electrical installation runs PLN 5,000–15,000+ depending on size and complexity.
Verify your electrician holds a valid SEP G1 certificate for electrical work. For larger projects, get a written quote and agree on scope before work begins.
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
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
Frequently asked questions
How much does an electrician charge per hour?
US electricians charge $50–$150 per hour, with master electricians at the top of the range and most jobs including a $50–$100 service call fee. In Poland, rates are PLN 80–200 per hour. In the Netherlands, expect €50–€85 per hour plus a callout fee of €30–€60.
How much does it cost to install an outlet or switch?
Installing a single new outlet runs $100–$300 in the US, depending on whether new wiring is needed. Replacing an existing outlet or switch is $80–$150. GFCI and smart outlets cost $20–$50 more in parts than standard ones.
Do I need a licensed electrician for small jobs?
Yes — almost all electrical work that goes inside walls or touches the breaker panel legally requires a licensed electrician, regardless of size. Permits are typically required for new circuits, panel upgrades, and any work affecting the home's electrical system. DIY work without permits can void homeowner's insurance.
Why does an electrical panel upgrade cost so much?
A panel upgrade ($1,500–$4,000+) involves coordinating with the utility company to disconnect power, replacing the main breaker box, re-terminating every circuit, pulling permits, and passing inspection. Older homes with cloth or aluminum wiring may need additional work, pushing costs to $5,000+.