How much does it cost to install an electrical outlet?
How much does it cost to install an electrical outlet?
$150 – $350 average cost to install a new electrical outlet
$80 – $200 average cost to replace an existing outlet
Average cost to install an electrical outlet
Outlet installation costs $150 to $350 on average, depending on the type, location, and the home's current wiring conditions. Electricians charge $50 to $130 per hour to install a new receptacle. Adding a new 240-volt outlet for a dryer or garage costs $250 to $800 and requires a new circuit.
| National Average Cost | $280 |
| Minimum Cost | $40 |
| Maximum Cost | $1,500 |
| Average Range | $150 to $350 |
Cost data is from research and project costs reported by HomeGuide members.
Installing a new outlet involves running new wiring from the main electrical panel or a junction box to the new outlet's location. In comparison, replacing an outlet costs $80 to $200 and requires only swapping the old receptacle for a new one.
New electrical outlet installation cost by type
| Type | Outlet unit price | Cost to install new |
|---|---|---|
| Standard 120V outlet | $1 – $7 | $150 – $300 |
| Smart 120V outlet - Wi-Fi or USB port | $20 – $50 | $170 – $350 |
| GFCI outlet (for wet areas) | $12 – $40 | $150 – $350 |
| 220V, 240V, or 250V outlet (for dryer or large appliances) | $8 – $30 | $250 – $800 |
| Ceiling outlet | $1 – $7 | $200 – $500 |
| TV outlet above fireplace | $1 – $7 | $250 – $500 |
| Floor outlet | $40 – $70 | $175 – $700 |
| Outdoor outlet | $15 – $30 | $180 – $350 |
Standard 120V outlet installation cost
Installing a standard 120V outlet costs $150 to $300 on average, depending on the location and current wiring conditions. Standard 120V outlets are the most common type used throughout the home to power lights and small appliances.
Standard 120V outlets cost $1 to $7 on average for the part alone. Most standard outlets are tamper-resistant for added safety.
Combination outlets featuring one receptable and one light switch or LED sensor cost $8 to $20 for the unit alone.
Smart outlets featuring USB charging ports or wi-fi connectivity cost $170 to $350 installed or $20 to $50 for the part alone. Wi-fi-enabled outlets can be paired with Alexa or Google Home and controlled via an app.
GFCI outlet installation
GFCI outlet installation costs $150 to $350 for a new outlet or $90 to $200 to replace an existing standard outlet with a GFCI model. GFCI outlets prevent fatal electrical shocks by monitoring the electrical current and immediately cutting power to the outlet upon sensing an imbalance or a short.
220V, 240V, & 250V outlet installation
The cost to install a 240V outlet is $250 to $800 on average, depending on the distance from the main electrical panel, amperage, and the home's current wiring conditions. The following appliances typically require a 240V outlet and dedicated circuit:
Clothes dryer
Oven / range
Water heater
Electric vehicle charging station
Central air conditioner
Hot tub
Steam shower
Outlets rated 220V, 240V, or 250V are considered identical.
Cost to add an outlet outside
The cost to install an outdoor outlet is $180 to $350 on average, depending on the location, the home's wiring conditions, and whether the outlet requires adding a new circuit. Outlets installed outside must be GFCI protected and enclosed in a weatherproof cover.
Cost to change 3-prong outlet to 4-prong
Changing a 3-prong outlet to a 4-prong outlet costs $150 to $500 and typically requires running new wiring from the outlet to the main electrical panel. When selecting a 4-prong outlet, confirm the number, shape, and layout of slots on the outlet match the prongs on the appliance's plug.
If the cord on your appliance does not have the same prong configuration as the outlet, changing the cord is an easy DIY project and typically only requires a replacement cord and a Phillips head screwdriver. Replacement cords cost $15 to $30 at home improvement stores.
Cost to change a 2-prong outlet to 3-prong
Changing a 2-prong outlet to a 3-prong outlet costs $100 to $300 and requires running a new ground wire from the outlet to the main panel. Replacing a 2-prong outlet with a 3-prong GFCI outlet costs $90 to $200 and provides protection from electrical shocks without running a ground wire.
Replacing an ungrounded 2-prong outlet with a 3-prong outlet is highly dangerous and against code unless the new three-prong outlet is either GFCI-protected or the electrician runs a new ground wire to it.
Ceiling or floor outlet cost to install
A ceiling outlet costs $200 to $500 installed. Ceiling outlets are more common in garages and workshops to keep electrical cords off the floor and prevent a trip hazard. Ceiling lighting fixtures inside the home are typically wired directly rather than plugged into an outlet.
A floor outlet costs $175 to $700 installed. Floor outlets feature a sturdy box, gasket seal, and durable waterproof cover for safety when stepped on or exposed to water during floor cleaning. A floor outlet adds convenience in large rooms where running cords to the wall creates a trip hazard.
Cost factors to add an electrical outlet
| Factor | Average cost |
|---|---|
| New outlet unit | $1 – $40 |
| Installation labor | $149 – $310 |
| Total cost | $150 – $350 |
Factors that affect the cost to add an electrical outlet include:
Outlet type – Standard 120V outlets cost the least to install, while 240V outlets typically cost the most as they require a dedicated circuit.
Location – The farther the outlet is from the main panel or a junction box that can be tapped, the more wiring the electrician must run through the walls, floors, attic, crawlspace, or basement.
Accessibility – Running new wiring for an outlet is easiest in an unfinished attic or basement or in open walls before installing drywall. Labor costs increase for complex installations, including:
Running wire up through multiple stories in the house
Fishing wire between walls
Running wire along concrete flooring
Running wire in tight attic spaces that restrict movement
Installations that require opening multiple holes in the walls
Drywall repairs – Drywall repair costs $50 to $150 to patch small holes or $200 to $400 for medium to large holes. Running wire to install a new outlet may require opening holes in the walls.
Labor rates – Electricians' labor rates vary by experience and location. Master electricians have the most experience but charge 50% to 100% more than Apprentice or Journeyman electricians.
Geographic location – Labor rates are typically higher in large metropolitan areas.
Outlet covers – The cost to replace outlet covers is $0.50 to $20.00 for the cover alone, depending on the color, style, and if the outlet is indoors or outdoors. Electricians typically include the cover cost in the estimate for new outlet installation.
Permits – An electrical permit costs $50 to $350, depending on the project size. Combine multiple small projects in one visit to reduce permit costs.
Electrician labor cost to install an outlet
Electricians charge $50 to $130 per hour, depending on experience and location. Most electricians charge a one-hour minimum plus a $100 to $200 trip fee. Labor costs make up most of the total cost to install an electrical outlet. Consider combining multiple electrical projects into one visit to minimize costs.
Outlet installation costs by location
| Location | Average cost installed | Outlet type |
|---|---|---|
| Dryer outlet | $250 – $800 | 220V, 240V, or 250V |
| Outlet behind a TV | $150 – $300 | Standard 120V |
| Outlet above a fireplace | $250 – $500 | Standard 120V |
| Outlet behind a toilet | $150 – $350 | GFCI |
| Microwave outlet | $150 – $350 | 20-amp GFCI |
| Ceiling outlet | $200 – $500 | Standard 120V |
| Floor outlet | $175 – $700 | Gasket-sealed with durable cover |
| Unfinished basement | $150 – $350 | GFCI |
| Outdoor outlet | $180 – $350 | Weather-resistant GFCI |
Cost to ground an outlet or house
The cost to ground an outlet is $100 to $300 on average, including labor and materials. Grounding an outlet requires running new wire from the outlet to the main electrical panel.
Grounding an entire house costs $2,000 to $10,000+ and requires running a ground wire from each outlet to the main electrical panel or completely rewiring the home, depending on the existing wire type. Less costly alternatives to rewiring the house include:
Replacing ungrounded outlets with GFCI outlets
Replacing a standard circuit breaker with a GFCI circuit breaker costs $120 to $380 and protects any outlets wired to that circuit.
Although GFCI protection does not provide grounding, it protects the home's residents from fatal electrical shock by immediately cutting power to an outlet upon sensing an imbalance in the current.
Cost to move an electrical outlet
The cost to move an electrical outlet can be as low as $40 to more than $250, depending on the distance, location, current wiring conditions, and whether the walls are open with exposed studs or covered in drywall.
Wiring repairs & upgrades
Though installing a new outlet is typically a simple project, in some situations it may require additional repairs or upgrades:
A dedicated circuit costs $250 to $900 installed. Many large appliances require a dedicated circuit and a 240V outlet.
The cost to rewire a house is $1.60 to $3.75 per square foot on average. Running new wiring costs $7 to $10 per linear foot.
Replacing or upgrading an electrical panel costs $850 to $4,000, depending on the amperage. The electrical panel may require an upgrade if it doesn't have the capacity to support a new outlet.
Frequently asked questions
How many outlets can you add to an existing circuit?
Most electricians recommend a maximum of 8 outlets per 15-amp circuit or 10 outlets per 20-amp circuit. The National Electric Code (NEC) does not specify a limit on the number of outlets per circuit. However, the circuit's amperage determines how many outlets it can power at the same time.
Do you need a licensed electrician to install an outlet?
You do not need a licensed electrician to install an outlet. However, electrical work is extremely dangerous and requires knowledge of the home's existing circuits, wiring conditions, and local code requirements. Most cities require a permit for new outlet installation.
In comparison, replacing an existing outlet or upgrading from a standard 120V outlet to a GFCI or smart USB outlet does not require a permit and is typically an easy DIY project.
How long does it take to install an outlet?
Installing an outlet takes 30 minutes to 3 hours on average, depending on the location, wiring conditions, and distance from the main electrical panel or nearest junction box. Projects that require opening walls and repairing drywall typically take the longest.
How much does it cost to replace a light switch?
The cost to replace a light switch is $50 to $250 for labor and materials, depending on the switch type. Replacing an existing switch with a dimmer or smart switch costs $80 to $250+. Installing a new light switch costs $100 to $300 on average.
Getting estimates from electrical outlet installation services
Before you hire an electrical outlet installer near you to install an outlet, be sure to:
Get three in-person estimates to compare.
Browse their reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
Hire a licensed, bonded, and insured company that has been established for 5+ years.
Avoid hiring the company with the lowest quote as quality may suffer.
Get a detailed contract and warranty in writing before the work begins.
Never pay in full before the project is complete. Work out a payment plan instead.
Questions to ask
How long have you been in business?
Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?
Can you provide local references with contact information?
Do I need a dedicated circuit for the new outlet?
Do you handle the permits and inspection process?
Are all permit fees included in the estimate?
What additional costs might come up during installation?
How long will the installation take?
Do you offer a warranty? If yes, what does it cover?