Hiring an electrician is one of those home expenses that can feel mysterious until the invoice lands in your inbox. Rates vary depending on where you live, the complexity of the job, and whether you’re dealing with a quick outlet swap or a full panel upgrade. Add in emergency call-outs, permit fees, and parts, and it’s easy to lose track of what’s a fair price.

Because electrical work directly affects your family’s safety, it’s not an area where cutting corners or DIY guesswork pays off. Learn how to find affordable, safe, and code-compliant work at a reasonable rate. 

In this guide, we’ll break down average electrician prices, how long common jobs take, what’s included in a typical service call, and simple ways to save money without compromising on quality or safety.

Key takeaways 

• Typical electrician cost: Most homeowners spend $150–$600+ for a standard visit, which includes the service call fee and one to two hours of labor.
  
  
• How pricing works: Electricians usually charge a $100–$200 service fee plus $75–$150 per hour, with extra costs for emergency visits, permits, and inspections.
  
  
• Ways to save: Compare multiple quotes and bundle small tasks into one appointment to avoid paying the service call fee more than once.
  

Electrician prices: How much does an electrician cost?

Electricians typically charge a service call fee plus an hourly rate, with most homeowners paying $150–$600+ for a standard visit. Because electrical work directly impacts the safety of your home, it’s not a project suited for DIY or a general handyman. Even small mistakes can lead to fire risks, code violations, or expensive repairs hidden behind walls.

Licensed electricians — especially experienced journeypersons or master electricians — are able to charge higher rates because the work requires technical skill, ongoing training, and knowledge of local building code. An apprentice may quote lower prices, but they often work under supervision and may not be suited for complex jobs.

Comparing quotes across multiple providers, especially those with verified reviews, is one of the best ways to ensure fair pricing. Independent electricians may offer more flexible rates, while franchise locations typically follow standard pricing structures. Both can be good options as long as the electrician is properly licensed and insured.

For larger home improvement projects, you may also need a permit and a final safety inspection. Permits generally cost $50–$200, and inspections typically add $100–$200. Budgeting for these administrative costs upfront helps keep renovations aligned with your actual project budget.

If you suspect an electrical issue — buzzing outlets, flickering lights, warm switch plates — it’s often cheaper to call an electrician early. Small problems can become emergencies if left unaddressed, and emergency call-outs often include added fees.

The average cost of an electrician 

Most homeowners spend around $150–$600+ for a typical electrical job, which includes the service call fee and one to two hours of labor. Electricians usually charge a service call fee of $100–$200, followed by an hourly rate of $75–$150 per hour once the work begins. Complex jobs requiring troubleshooting, specialty parts, or access challenges may take longer.

If you receive a quote that seems unusually low, it may indicate that the contractor is still an apprentice, lacks full licensure, or is omitting required steps such as permitting or inspections. For safety-critical work — panel upgrades, rewiring, adding circuits — hiring a licensed master electrician is strongly recommended.

Emergency visits, especially on weekends or holidays, almost always come with additional fees. These surcharges reflect the increased demand for urgent troubleshooting and the time-sensitive nature of the work.

Here’s a breakdown of typical electrician pricing for common jobs:

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Calculating the cost of an electrician

Estimating the cost of an electrical job becomes much easier once you understand how electricians price their work. Most jobs combine a service call fee, an hourly rate, and the cost of any parts, permits, or specialty add-ons. Larger or more complex jobs may require multiple hours or multiple visits, while emergency calls or weekend work often add surcharges.

Below is a simple way to calculate what your project may cost before requesting quotes.

How to calculate the total cost of hiring an electrician

1. Start with the service call fee. Most electricians charge $100–$200 just to come out and diagnose the issue.
   
   
2. Add the hourly labor rate. After the first hour, expect $75–$150 per hour, depending on the electrician’s experience and location.
   
   
3. Include job-specific parts or materials. Outlet boxes, fixtures, wiring, breakers, circuits, conduit, and smart-home components all add to the total.
   
   
4. Factor in permits (if required). Panel upgrades, new circuits, EV charger installs, and major wiring changes typically require permits.
   
   
5. Add inspection fees. Permitted work may require a follow-up safety inspection.
   
   
6. Consider emergency or after-hours surcharges. Nights, holidays, and weekend visits usually add $100–$300.
   
   
7. Estimate time based on job type. Use the “How many hours…” table below to estimate labor hours.
   
   

Add optional upgrades. Smart switches, dimmers, specialty lighting, and panel expansions all increase cost.

Cost by type of electrical work

Electrical projects fall into several major categories, each with its own typical price range and time requirements. Costs vary based on how much wiring is involved, whether parts need upgrading, and how accessible the work area is. Understanding which category your job falls into helps you estimate the total cost before requesting quotes.

Use the table below to find out how much homeowners typically pay for common types of electrical work.

Cost by time of day (regular vs emergency rates)

Electricians often charge differently depending on when you need the work done.

How many hours does the average electrical job take?

Electrical projects vary widely in complexity, which means the time required can range from a quick 15-minute swap to multi-day installations. Simple tasks like replacing outlets or light switches usually take under two hours, while more involved work — such as installing a new circuit or upgrading a panel — can require several hours or even multiple visits.

The condition of your home’s wiring, the accessibility of the work area, and whether new wiring must be run all influence how long a job takes. Older homes, high ceilings, and tight crawl spaces can also add time.

Hourly rates for the top electrician platforms

Finding a reliable electrician at a fair price often starts with choosing the right platform. Marketplaces and franchise service providers each price their work differently — some offer flat-rate packages, while others charge standard hourly rates plus a service call fee. Comparing quotes across multiple platforms can help you understand typical pricing in your area and find an electrician whose skills match your project.

Below are five of the most commonly used platforms and national electrical service providers in the U.S. to help you compare costs confidently.

Angi

Angi is one of the largest home-services platforms in the country, connecting homeowners with vetted electricians for everything from small repairs to major installations. Electricians set their own rates, and Angi allows you to request multiple quotes, compare reviews, and check credentials all in one place.

Angi’s pricing:

• Typical jobs booked through Angi cost $160–$550+
• Service call fees vary by contractor
  
  
• Rates depend on experience, job complexity, and location
  

Thumbtack

Thumbtack lets you post details about your electrical project and receive quotes directly from local electricians. The platform is especially useful if you want to compare rates quickly or need an electrician with a specific specialty, like automation, EV charging, or older-home wiring.

Thumbtack’s pricing:

• Average hourly rate: $75–$150/hr
• Prices vary widely by region and job scope
  
  
• Thumbtack provides location-specific cost guides
  

Mister Sparky

Mister Sparky is a national electrical services franchise known for punctuality, transparent pricing, and flat-rate quotes. Many locations offer upfront pricing before work begins, so you know exactly what you’ll pay for common electrical jobs.

Mister Sparky pricing:

• Rates vary by local franchise
  
  
• Often uses flat-rate pricing for predictable costs
  
  
• Many locations offer multiple quote tiers based on budget
  

Mr. Electric

Mr. Electric provides both scheduled electrical work and emergency services across the U.S. Customers can expect standard service call fees and hourly labor rates, with optional perks through the Mr. Electric Advantage Plan, which offers discounts and priority scheduling.

Mr. Electric pricing:

• Pricing varies by location
  
  
• Service call + hourly labor model
  
  
• Advantage Plan members receive discounted rates
  
  

Home Depot Electrical Services

Home Depot partners with licensed electricians to offer installation and repair services through its national retail network. This option is convenient for homeowners who want vetted pros and easy scheduling through a familiar brand.

Home Depot pricing:

• Pricing varies by region and project type
  
  
• Estimates provided after sharing project details
  
  
• Available for both small repairs and large upgrades

What’s included in an electrician’s service?

An electrician’s service is typically a combination of a service fee (the cost of having an electrician “cross the threshold”) and an hourly rate that applies to every additional hour that an electrician needs to perform the work. Parts and administrative costs, like permits, can also be included in the total cost of electrical services. Obtaining a detailed cost estimate for major electrical projects is worthwhile to understand what line items are included. 

Because you are paying for an electrician’s expertise and their knowledge of the local building code, electricians often charge higher hourly rates than other contractors. 

DIY electrical work vs hiring a professional

Electrical repairs may seem straightforward, but even small mistakes can create serious safety hazards behind your walls. While homeowners can handle very simple tasks — like resetting a breaker or replacing a lightbulb — anything involving wiring, outlets, switches, or your electrical panel should be left to a licensed electrician.

DIY electrical work can void insurance policies, violate local building codes, and lead to shocks, fires, or hidden damage that becomes far more expensive to repair later. In nearly all cases, hiring a licensed, insured electrician is the safest and most cost-effective choice.

Remember: If a job involves wiring, circuits, outlets, switches, or your electrical panel, hire a licensed electrician. The risks of DIY electrical work far outweigh the savings.

Signs you need to call an electrician

Some electrical problems seem small but are actually warnings of a larger issue. If you notice any of the signs below, stop using the affected outlet or fixture and call a professional as soon as possible.

Common signs you need an electrician

• Flickering or dimming lights. Could indicate overloaded circuits, loose connections, or panel issues.
  
  
• Warm, buzzing, or sparking outlets. A major red flag for loose wiring or overheating.
  
  
• Burning smells or scorching around outlets. Shut off power immediately — this can signal an active fire hazard.
  
  
• Frequently tripped breakers. A sign that circuits are overloaded or wiring is damaged.
  
  
• Shocks or tingling when touching switches or appliances. Indicates a grounding issue or faulty wiring.
  
  
• Old or outdated wiring. Aluminum wiring, knob-and-tube, or ungrounded systems require professional attention.
  
  
• Lights that hum or fixtures that buzz. Often signals loose wiring or improper installation.
  
  
• Outlets that don’t hold plugs firmly. Worn internal contacts are a fire risk and should be replaced.
  

When to call immediately

• Burning smell
  
  
• Smoke
  
  
• Crackling sounds behind walls
  
  
• Breakers that won’t reset
  
  
• Water exposure (flooding, leaks, outdoor outlets)
  
  

These are urgent hazards that require professional intervention — often an emergency visit.

How can I save money on an electrician?

Unlike other home improvement projects, DIY electrical work isn’t recommended — the safety risks and potential for hidden damage make it more cost-effective in the long run to hire a licensed, insured electrician. To keep costs down, start by collecting multiple quotes so you can compare rates, service fees, and what each contractor includes in the job.

Many national franchises and local electricians offer payment plans, seasonal specials, or membership discounts that can reduce the total cost of repairs or upgrades. Because most electricians charge a service call fee, it’s also more affordable to bundle several small tasks into one visit rather than scheduling multiple appointments.

Is an electrician worth the cost?

Yes, hiring a licensed electrician is worth the investment. Electrical work requires technical expertise, an understanding of local building codes, and the ability to diagnose issues hidden behind walls. While electricians often charge higher hourly rates than other contractors, the risks of improper electrical work are significant. Faulty wiring can lead to shocks, fire hazards, or sparking fixtures, making professional installation and repairs essential for your family’s safety.

We recommend Angi

If you want to compare electrician rates in your area, Angi is an easy place to start. You can browse detailed listings, read verified reviews, and request multiple quotes with just a few clicks. Whether you need a master electrician for a complex project or a pro who specializes in generators, EV chargers, or smart-home setups, Angi makes it simple to find the right expert.

Angi is free to use, not paywalled, and helps you connect with local, licensed electricians so you can find quality work at a fair price.

Electrician cost FAQs

How much do most electricians charge?
Most electricians charge a $100–$200 service fee plus $75–$150 per hour. Small jobs usually total $150–$600.

How much does a good electrician cost?
A licensed journeyperson or master electrician typically charges $100–$150 per hour, plus a $100–$200 service fee.

How much does it cost to have an electrician look at your house?
A diagnostic visit usually costs $100–$200, which often includes the first hour of inspection.

Why are electricians so expensive?
Electricians charge more because the work requires expert training, licensing, and strict adherence to safety and building codes.

Are electrician costs negotiable?
Some electricians offer flexible pricing or seasonal discounts, but many use standard, non-negotiable rates.

Will electricians give free quotes?
Many provide free estimates for large projects. Small jobs or diagnostics usually require a paid service call.

Should I pay an electrician in cash?
It’s safer to pay using a method that provides a receipt for proof of work, warranty coverage, and documentation.

How to save money when hiring an electrician?
Get multiple quotes, bundle small tasks into one visit, and ask about specials or membership discounts.

How much for an electrician to check wiring?
A wiring inspection typically costs $100–$300, depending on home size and how much troubleshooting is needed.