Key Takeaway
Most licensed electricians charge $50–$130 per hour. Many companies bundle the first hour as a service call ($100–$200) to cover travel, setup, and diagnostics. Emergency or after-hours work typically bills at $150–$200+ per hour and may include a separate trip fee.
Electrician Hourly Rates (Typical Bands)
| Role | Common Hourly Range | Typical Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Apprentice (supervised) | $40–$70/hr | Basic swaps, fixture installs, assist with rough-ins |
| Journeyman | $50–$100/hr | Troubleshooting, outlets/switches, dedicated circuits |
| Master | $90–$130+/hr | Service panels, complex diagnostics, permitting, oversight |
| Emergency/After-Hours | $150–$200+/hr | Urgent hazards at nights/weekends/holidays |
Note: Apprentices usually work under the supervision of a journeyman or master.
What the First Hour Covers
- Travel & setup: Getting to your home, unloading, safety checks.
- Diagnostics: Testing circuits, tracing faults, identifying parts.
- Initial work: Many small fixes are completed within this first hour.
Tip: Ask whether the service call includes the first hour of labor or is charged in addition to hourly time.
Hourly vs. Flat-Rate Pricing
| Model | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hourly | Transparent time logs; good for unknown issues | Total is uncertain until work is done | Diagnostics, troubleshooting, open-ended scope |
| Flat-Rate (per task) | Upfront total; easier to compare quotes | May include buffer for risk/overhead | Defined installs like fixtures, outlets, EV chargers |
6 Factors That Change Your Price
- Timing: Weekdays 9–5 cost less than nights/weekends.
- Region: Dense metros/coastal areas trend higher; rural markets trend lower.
- Complexity: Panel upgrades, aluminum wiring, knob-and-tube, or code corrections raise labor time and risk.
- Permits/inspections: Often required for service panels or new circuits; plan for fees and scheduling.
- Materials: Fixtures, wire, boxes, breakers, disposal—ask if you can supply approved fixtures.
- Company overhead: Larger firms may cost more but often provide faster scheduling and stronger warranties.
Regional Multipliers (Helpful Guideline)
| Area Type | Multiplier | What It Means |
|---|---|---|
| Rural | 0.9× | Rates trend slightly lower; travel distance can add fees |
| Suburban | 1.0×–1.1× | Baseline pricing in many markets |
| Urban/Metro | 1.2×–1.4× | Higher demand, parking, and overhead costs |
Sample Scenarios & Cost Walkthroughs
1) Small Fixes Bundle (Best Value)
Scope: Replace 2 outlets, install 1 dimmer, tighten a loose switch.
Typical time: ~1.5–2.0 hours • Rate: $80/hr (journeyman)
Estimated total: $160 (labor) + $45 (parts) + service call included → ~$205
2) Ceiling Fan + New Box
Scope: Install a fan where no brace box exists; add proper support.
Typical time: ~2–3 hours • Rate: $85/hr
Estimated total: $170–$255 labor + $25–$60 parts → ~$195–$315
3) Panel Replacement (200 Amp)
Scope: Replace aging panel, label circuits, coordinate inspection.
Typical total: $1,400–$2,800 including permits/inspection in many markets.
Emergency vs. Standard Hours
Burning smell, heat at the panel, arcing, or a breaker that won’t reset warrants emergency service. Expect $150–$200+ per hour and a trip fee during nights/weekends/holidays.
Ways to Save Without Cutting Corners
- Bundle tasks to make the first hour count.
- Provide approved fixtures (if allowed) so you pay labor only.
- Book weekday mornings to avoid overtime premiums.
- Request a fixed bid for well-defined installs.
- Send photos/videos so your quote is accurate and complete.
Simple Budget Formula
Total ≈ Service Call (if any) + Hourly Rate × Hours + Parts + Permit/Inspection
Quick Hiring Checklist
- License and insurance verified (ask for the license number)
- Scope and rate in writing (what’s included in the first hour?)
- Who pulls permits and how fees are handled
- Warranty terms on labor/parts
- Recent reviews or references for similar jobs
FAQs
Do electricians charge for estimates?
Many offer free phone or virtual estimates for straightforward installs. Troubleshooting often requires a paid service call.
Why is the first hour pricier?
It typically covers travel, setup, diagnostics, and initial safety work—costs that exist even when the fix is quick.
Is a handyman cheaper?
Usually, but certain tasks legally require a licensed electrician and permit. Incorrect wiring can void insurance and create hazards.
What’s the fastest way to avoid repeat trips?
Make a punch list, share photos ahead of time, and confirm the electrician has the parts you need on the truck.