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Electrical Estimating Guide
Per-point pricing, labor rates, and standard line items for electrical estimates.
How to Estimate Electrical Work
Electrical estimates are built on a per-point pricing model, where each outlet, switch, or fixture connection is one "point" costing $150–$300 installed.
- Rough-in per point: $100–$200 (new construction, open walls)
- Finished-wall per point: $200–$400 (remodel, fishing wires through existing walls)
- Service panel upgrade (200A): $1,800–$4,000
- Sub-panel addition: $1,200–$2,500
- Dedicated circuit (appliance): $200–$500 each
Always include permit fees ($100–$500) and inspection costs in electrical estimates — most jurisdictions require them.
Key Takeaways
- Per-point pricing: $150–$300/point installed
- Panel upgrade (200A): $1,800–$4,000
- Permits required in most jurisdictions
Electrical Labor Rates in 2026
Licensed electricians charge $75–$150 per hour in 2026, with journeymen at $50–$85/hr and apprentices at $25–$45/hr.
- Master electrician: $100–$150/hr
- Journeyman electrician: $50–$85/hr
- Apprentice: $25–$45/hr (must work under journeyman)
- Emergency/after-hours: 1.5–2× standard rate
For bidding, use burdened labor rate (hourly wage × 1.35–1.5) to account for payroll taxes, workers' comp, and benefits.
Key Takeaways
- Licensed electrician: $75–$150/hr
- Burdened rate: wage × 1.35–1.5
- Emergency calls: 1.5–2× normal rate
Common Electrical Estimate Line Items
A complete electrical estimate template should include these standard line items to avoid scope gaps and change orders.
- Service entrance/panel: Main panel, meter base, grounding
- Branch circuits: Lighting, receptacle, and dedicated appliance circuits
- Fixtures: Recessed lights ($150–$300 each installed), ceiling fans ($200–$500)
- Switches/dimmers: Standard ($3–$8 each), smart switches ($30–$80 each)
- Low voltage: Data/ethernet runs ($100–$200/drop), phone, cable TV
- Smoke/CO detectors: Hardwired interconnected ($100–$200 each installed)
Key Takeaways
- Recessed lights: $150–$300 each installed
- Data drops: $100–$200 per run
- Hardwired smoke detectors: $100–$200 each
How to Use This Calculator
Enter Your Company Info
Fill in your electrical company name, address, phone, email, and license number to brand the estimate with your business details.
Add Work Items
Select work item types from the dropdown (outlets, switches, circuits, panel upgrades, etc.), enter quantities, material costs, labor hours, and your hourly rate.
Include Permit Costs
Enter the permit and inspection cost for your jurisdiction. Electrical permits are required for most work beyond simple fixture replacements.
Preview and Print
Click Preview to see a professionally formatted electrical estimate. Use the Print button to save as PDF or print a hard copy for your client.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do you estimate an electrical job?
Start by listing every work item: outlets, switches, circuits, fixtures, and panels. For each item, estimate material cost (wire, boxes, devices, connectors) and labor hours. Multiply labor hours by your hourly rate, add material costs, then include permit fees and a 10-20% markup for overhead and profit.
What is a typical electrician hourly rate?
Licensed electricians typically charge $80 to $130 per hour depending on location and experience. Journeyman rates range $50-$90/hr, while master electricians charge $100-$150+/hr. Emergency and after-hours calls often carry a 1.5x to 2x premium. Your rate should cover wages, insurance, vehicle, and tools.
How much does it cost to install an outlet?
Installing a standard outlet costs $150 to $300 including materials and labor. GFCI outlets run $200-$400 due to the higher device cost. Adding a new circuit for the outlet adds $300-$600 depending on the panel distance. These costs assume accessible walls; costs increase significantly if walls need to be opened.
How much does a panel upgrade cost?
Upgrading an electrical panel from 100A to 200A typically costs $1,500 to $3,500 including the panel, breakers, permit, and labor. A complete service upgrade (panel + meter base + utility coordination) runs $2,500 to $5,000+. Costs vary by region and whether the existing wiring needs modification.
Do I need a permit for electrical work?
In most jurisdictions, yes. Electrical permits are required for new circuits, panel upgrades, service changes, and additions. Simple like-for-like device replacements (swapping a switch or outlet) typically do not require a permit. Permit costs range from $50 to $500 depending on the scope. Always check your local building department.
What should an electrical estimate include?
A professional electrical estimate should include: company and license info, itemized work list with quantities and costs, material and labor breakdown, permit and inspection fees, payment terms, timeline, and exclusions (such as patching, painting, or fixture supply). Clear documentation protects both you and the client.
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Turn this job into a full, priced estimate for your client.
Snap photos, talk through the scope, drop in your notes. The AI prices every line item with labor and material rates adjusted for your region, and checks the math.