Electrical work in Los Angeles costs significantly more than the national average, driven by California's strict licensing requirements, high cost of living, and strong demand from the region's massive housing stock. Licensed LA electricians typically charge $95–$200 per hour, with most homeowners spending $400–$1,500 on common repairs and upgrades. Larger projects like panel upgrades or whole-home rewiring can run $2,200–$15,000 or more.
📍 Electrical Services Across Los Angeles County
Cost research and price ranges for electrical services across LA County cities and neighborhoods.
Electrical Costs in Los Angeles — 2026 Price List
| Service | Low | Average | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Outlet installation (single) | $180 | $260 | $350 |
| GFCI outlet replacement | $140 | $200 | $280 |
| Light fixture installation | $175 | $275 | $400 |
| Ceiling fan installation | $220 | $340 | $480 |
| Circuit breaker replacement | $190 | $280 | $380 |
| 200-amp panel upgrade | $2,200 | $3,400 | $4,800 |
| EV charger installation (Level 2) | $650 | $1,100 | $1,800 |
| Smoke/CO detector installation | $120 | $175 | $240 |
| Whole-home rewire (1,500 sq ft) | $8,000 | $11,000 | $15,000 |
| Emergency electrical call | $280 | $400 | $550 |
💼 LA Electrical Labor Rates (2026)
Electrical providers in Los Angeles typically charge $95–$200 per hour, averaging around $145/hr. Most jobs include a minimum trip fee of $150–$250.
What Affects Electrical Costs in Los Angeles?
License & Trade Level
HighCalifornia requires a C-10 Electrical Contractor license. Journeyman electricians charge more than apprentices. Always verify license at cslb.ca.gov before hiring.
Panel Amperage
HighUpgrading from 100-amp to 200-amp service is the most common panel job in LA's older housing stock. Cost includes utility coordination with LADWP, which can add $300–$700 and 4–6 weeks of lead time.
Home Age & Wiring Type
HighHomes built before 1975 in LA may have aluminum wiring or knob-and-tube, both of which require special handling and add 30–60% to any electrical project cost.
Permit Requirements
MediumMost electrical work in LA requires permits from LADBS. Permit fees run $150–$600 and inspections add 1–2 weeks to the project timeline. Always pull permits — unpermitted electrical work creates serious liability.
Number of Circuits
MediumEach new circuit requires running wire from the panel to the work area. In finished walls, this can require drywall repair, adding $150–$400 per circuit.
Access Difficulty
MediumRunning wire through finished walls, attics with blown insulation, or crawlspaces costs more than open-stud new construction. Expect 25–50% more labor for retrofit work in existing LA homes.
Example Electrical Cost Breakdown in LA
Scenario: 200-amp panel upgrade in a 1960s Westside LA home, including permit and LADWP coordination