How much does it cost to install a chandelier?
How much does it cost to install a chandelier?
$220 – $3,400 average cost to install a chandelier (labor & materials)
$100 – $350 cost to replace existing chandelier (labor only)
$200 – $2,000 cost to install new chandelier (labor only)
Chandelier installation cost
Chandelier installation costs $100 to $350 for labor alone to replace an existing fixture or $200 to $2,000 to install a new fixture. Chandelier prices are $120 to $1,400 on average, depending on the size and type. Electricians charge more to hang a chandelier from a high ceiling or stairwell.
| Project | Standard ceiling (labor cost) | High ceiling (labor cost) |
|---|---|---|
| Replace an existing chandelier | $100 – $150 | $200 – $400 |
| Install a new chandelier | $150 – $400 | $700 – $2,000 |
Chandelier prices by type
A chandelier costs $120 to $1,400 for the unit only, depending on the type and size. Standard 5-light chandeliers are the cheapest, while prices for crystal and antler chandeliers can exceed $1,000.
| Type | Average price range |
|---|---|
| Standard 5-light chandelier | $120 – $300 |
| Crystal chandelier | $220 – $1,400 |
| Tiered chandelier | $170 – $700 |
| Shaded chandelier | $120 – $400 |
| Antler chandelier | $250– $1,000 |
Fluorescent vs LED bulbs – An electrician may have to wire the fixture differently to accommodate fluorescent bulbs instead of standard LED bulbs.
Size – Large chandeliers with multiple tiers cost more than small, simple fixtures.
Material – Luxury crystal chandeliers may cost $10,000+, depending on the size and designer.
Electrician charge breakdown to install a chandelier
An electrician or handyman charges $220 to $3,400 to install or replace a chandelier, including labor and the chandelier itself. Hanging a chandelier takes 2 to 4 hours on average, depending on the size and ceiling height.
| Factor | Average cost |
|---|---|
| New chandelier unit & supplies | $120 – $1,400 |
| Installation labor & wiring | $100 – $2,000 |
| Total cost to install | $220 – $3,400 |
Labor cost factors to hang a chandelier
The following factors affect the cost to hang a chandelier:
Chandelier type / size / location – Costs increase for chandeliers that are large, made with crystals and other premium materials, or hung in a stairwell.
Ceiling height – Chandeliers cost more to hang in tall or vaulted ceilings because they require extra labor and equipment.
Assembly – A chandelier with many parts and lightbulbs may cost more to assemble and install than simpler fixtures.
Old chandelier removal – The contractor's labor estimate typically includes removing and disposing of an existing chandelier.
Chandelier weight / support system – A chandelier weighing over50 pounds requires a support system in the ceiling, increasing installation costs.
Wiring / rewiring a chandelier – Electrical rewiring costs $7 to $10 per linear foot on average and may be required if the house is 40 to 50 years old or older.
Installing a new light switch / dimmer – A new light switch costs $100 to $300 per switch installed. A dimmer switch costs $80 to $200 with installation.
Upgrading electrical panel – An electrical panel replacement costs $850 to $1,700 on average, depending on the amperage. A small subpanel costs $500 to $1,000 with installation and may be necessary if there is no room in the existing breaker box.
Permits – A building permit costs $30 to $500 for electrical work, including lighting.
Finishes / painting – Ceiling painting costs $1 to $2 per square foot, including labor.
Drywall repair – Drywall repair costs $50 to $100 per square foot or $150 to $400 total on average.
Cost to install a chandelier in a high ceiling
Installing a chandelier in a high ceiling or vaulted ceiling costs two to five times more because it requires specialized lifts, ladders, structural support, and extra labor.
FAQs to hang a chandelier
How long does it take to install a chandelier?
Installing a chandelier takes 2 to 4 hours on average, depending on the ceiling height and whether the fixture is a replacement.
How high should chandelier be above table?
A chandelier should be 30 to 36 inches above the table on average. Add three inches for every foot of ceiling height over eight feet.
What size chandelier do I need?
A chandelier’s height should be 2 to 3 inches for every foot of ceiling height. To calculate the ideal chandelier width, measure the width and length of the room and add them together. For example, a 15x15 foot room requires a chandelier that is 30 inches wide.
Where to buy chandeliers
Buy a chandelier from reputable sources such as Home Depot, Lowe’s, Wayfair, and other home improvement or specialty lighting stores.
Who installs chandeliers?
A handyman charges $50 to $80 per hour on average and can handle a simple chandelier replacement. An electrician charges $40 to $100 per hour and should install a chandelier if:
There is no existing fixture.
The existing wiring needs to be updated.
The ceiling needs additional support to hold the weight of the chandelier.
Getting estimates from chandelier installers
Before you hire a handyman or an lighting installer near you, be sure to:
Get at least three quotes to compare.
Choose licensed, bonded, insured electricians with experience installing chandeliers.
Look at reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
Ask for references from recent projects.
Select companies that have been in business for more than five years.
Avoid choosing the lowest quote as quality may suffer.
Get a detailed estimate, contract, and warranty in writing before the work begins.
Never pay in full before the project starts. Follow a payment plan instead.
Questions to ask
How long have you been in business?
Are you licensed and insured?
How many chandelier installations have you worked on?
Can you provide references of past work?
Is the light fixture UL listed?
Does the estimate include all materials and labor fees?
What additional costs can I expect?
Do I need a permit for this job? If so, will you pull it?
Do you offer a warranty?
How long will the installation take?
What are your payment terms and schedule?