Illustration of a house with an electrical panel and lightning bolt under a protection shield
Original illustration — ServiCover
📌 Key Takeaway: Electricians typically charge $50-$150 per hour plus a $75-$150 service call fee. Small jobs like adding an outlet run $120-$300, a 100-to-200 amp panel upgrade costs $1,500-$4,000, and a Level 2 EV charger install runs $500-$2,000 before any panel work.

National Electrical Brands vs. Local Electricians

Residential electrical work is mostly done by local licensed contractors, with a few national franchise brands offering standardized pricing and scheduling. Electrical work carries real fire and shock risks, so licensing and permits matter far more than branding.

Mister Sparky
Model: Franchise network  |  Known for: On-time guarantee, upfront pricing
A national franchise focused on residential electrical service. Quotes flat prices before work begins; quality varies by local owner, so check reviews for your area.
Mr. Electric
Model: Franchise network  |  Known for: Residential and light commercial service
Part of a larger home-services franchise family. Offers upfront pricing and a broad service menu, from lighting to panel and generator work.
Independent Licensed Electricians
Best for: Remodels, rewiring, EV chargers  |  Watch for: Availability in busy seasons
Local electricians often charge less for scheduled work and are the norm for larger projects. Confirm the state license, insurance, and that they'll pull the permit.

2026 Electrical Price Snapshot

JobTypical Cost
Hourly rate$50-$150/hr
Service call / trip fee$75-$150
New outlet or switch$120-$300
Ceiling fan installation$150-$400
Light fixture installation$150-$450
Level 2 EV charger install$500-$2,000
Panel upgrade (100A → 200A)$1,500-$4,000
Whole-house generator$4,000-$15,000
Whole-house rewire$8,000-$30,000

Signs You Need an Electrician Now

  • Burning smell, scorch marks or warm outlets and switch plates
  • Breakers that trip repeatedly
  • Flickering lights when large appliances start
  • Buzzing from outlets, switches or the panel
  • Any shock or tingle when touching a switch or appliance

If you smell burning or see smoke, turn off power at the main breaker if it's safe to do so and call an electrician — or the fire department if there's active fire.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I do my own electrical work?

Some jurisdictions allow homeowners to do limited work on their own home with a permit, but many don't, and mistakes can create fire hazards or insurance problems. For anything beyond swapping a like-for-like fixture, hire a licensed electrician.

Do electrical jobs need a permit?

Most work beyond simple replacements — new circuits, panel upgrades, EV chargers, rewiring — requires a permit and inspection. Your electrician normally pulls it.

Is the EV charger tax credit still available?

The federal 30C credit for home EV chargers ended for equipment placed in service after June 30, 2026. Check your utility and state for local rebates.