ServiCover📌 Key Takeaway: Most electricians charge $50-$150 per hour, with master electricians and emergency calls at the top of that range or above. Expect a $75-$150 service call fee or a one-hour minimum on small jobs.
Rates by License Level
| Level | Typical Role | Relative Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Apprentice | Works under supervision | Lowest — often bundled into a crew rate |
| Journeyman | Most installs and repairs | Mid-range of $50-$150/hr |
| Master electrician | Design, permits, complex jobs | Top of the range |
| After-hours / emergency | Nights, weekends, holidays | Often 1.5-2× standard rates |
Typical Job Prices
| Job | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Outlet or switch install | $120-$300 |
| GFCI outlet in kitchen or bath | Within the outlet range, depending on access |
| Ceiling fan install | $150-$400 |
| Light fixture install | $150-$450 |
| New dedicated circuit | Varies with distance from the panel |
| EV charger (Level 2) | $500-$2,000 |
| Panel upgrade | $1,500-$4,000 |
What Makes Electrical Work Cost More
- Access — finished walls, plaster, and tight attics mean more time fishing wire.
- Distance from the panel — longer runs use more wire and labor.
- Code upgrades — older homes may need grounding, GFCI or AFCI protection brought up to current code.
- Permits — required for most new circuits and panel work.
- Drywall repair — often not included; electricians cut access holes but don't always patch and paint.
How to Save
- Group small tasks into one visit to spread the service fee.
- Buy fixtures yourself if the electrician allows it — but confirm they'll warranty the install.
- Ask whether patching is included, or plan to patch and paint yourself.
- Get two or three written quotes for anything over a few hundred dollars.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is there a minimum charge for a small job?
Travel, setup and permit-related time cost the electrician the same whether the job takes ten minutes or an hour, so most set a minimum.
Should I pay hourly or flat rate?
Flat rates give certainty for well-defined jobs. Hourly can be cheaper for quick fixes but riskier if the problem turns out to be complex.