Electricians handle wiring, breaker panels, outlets, switches, lighting, ceiling fans and safety upgrades. Electrical work is not a do-it-yourself job: faulty wiring is a fire risk, and most work must meet local code. Electricians usually charge by the hour, with a higher rate for the first hour that includes the trip. This page explains typical costs and how to hire a licensed electrician.
When do you need electrician?
- Breakers trip often or outlets feel warm or spark
- Lights flicker, dim or buzz when appliances run
- You need new outlets, switches, lighting or a ceiling fan installed
- The panel is old, full, or has no room for a new circuit
- You are adding a large appliance, an EV charger or a home addition
What does electrician cost in the US?
| Job | Typical range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hourly rate | $50-$100 (first hour often ~$150 with trip) | Typical hourly rate per Angi; first hour often higher with trip fee |
| Breaker replacement | $150-$250 | Replacing a single circuit breaker |
| Panel replacement | ~$1,347 avg | Average cost to replace an electrical panel |
| Panel upgrade | $1,200-$2,500 | Upgrading a panel to higher capacity |
Typical US ranges based on published HomeAdvisor / Angi / Thumbtack cost guides, checked November 2026. Your quote will vary by city, job complexity and scope -- always get 2-3 written quotes.
How to choose a electrician company
- Confirm the electrician is licensed and insured in your state
- Ask for a written quote that lists labor, parts and any permit fees
- Check reviews for safety, cleanliness and clear communication
- Ask whether the work will be inspected and meet local code
- For larger jobs, compare at least two quotes and ask what is included
Red flags to watch for
- No license, or work offered without a permit where one is required
- A quote that does not list parts, labor or permit costs
- Advice to skip an inspection or to hide work from the city
- A price far below other quotes for panel or rewiring work
Electrician in your city
- Electrician in New York
- Electrician in Los Angeles
- Electrician in Chicago
- Electrician in Houston
- Electrician in Phoenix
- Electrician in Dallas
- Electrician in San Antonio
- Electrician in San Diego
- Electrician in Austin
- Electrician in San Jose
Frequently asked questions about electrician
Electricians typically charge $50-$100 per hour according to Angi, and the first hour is often around $150 because it includes the trip. Larger jobs are usually quoted as a flat price. Ask whether the quote is hourly or flat before work begins.
A panel replacement averages around $1,347, while a panel upgrade to higher capacity typically costs $1,200-$2,500. The final price depends on the panel size, the home wiring and whether a permit and inspection are needed.
Replacing a single breaker typically costs $150-$250, including the part and labor. If several breakers are failing or the panel is old, the electrician may recommend inspecting the whole panel before replacing parts one by one.
You may need one if the panel is full and cannot take new circuits, if you are adding a large appliance or an EV charger, or if the panel is old, damaged or uses a recalled brand. An electrician can inspect the panel and tell you whether an upgrade is needed.
Reputable electricians usually warranty their labor, often for a year, and the parts they install carry manufacturer warranties. Ask what is covered and for how long, and keep the invoice in case a problem returns.