Cost to Add an Electrical Outlet Receptacle – 2024 Prices
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An electrical receptacle, or outlet, is the plug on the wall that we take for granted in our lives. It's necessary to provide the power needed for lamps, microwaves, and other electrical devices that we use every day.
Keep reading to learn more about the cost to install or replace a receptacle.
2024 Electrical Receptacle Costs
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| National Average Price | $200 |
| Typical Price Range | $150 - $350 |
| Typical Price Range (per hour - labor) | $50 - $200 |
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How Much Does an Electrical Receptacle Cost?
Although the national average is about $150 to $350 to install a new electrical receptacle, that price is usually dependent on the price electricians charge per hour in your area and the complexity of the project. Most electricians charge from $50 to over $200 per hour for labor, depending on your area and the contractor’s skill level.
Outlet Types
How much it will cost to install your new electrical outlet depends primarily on what type of outlet you want installed. If you are installing a new outlet for a specific appliance, such as a dryer, check the specifications.
Installing outlets for dryers, freezers, refrigerators, ovens, ranges, and air conditioners will typically require a 220-250 volt outlet, which will cost more to purchase and install. A 220-250 volt outlet will cost more than standard 110-125 volt outlets.
Tamper-resistant (TR) outlets or receptacles are only $0.50 more than a standard receptacle and offer priceless peace of mind because these will keep the little ones safer. Other options include ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCI), floor, and two or three-prong outlets. Smart outlets are also rising in popularity, but you will pay for the convenience.
220-250 Volt Outlets
Dryers usually require a 30 amp, 240 volt receptacle hooked to a separate circuit breaker, using four conductors with GFCI protection. The outlet will cost between $15 – $25 in addition to $50 – $200 per hour for installation. Special circuits and any additional wiring will cost more.
The total installed cost typically averages $250 to $800, depending on location and complexity.
Upgrading Two-Prong Outlets
In older homes, just about every outlet is a two-prong outlet. What this means is there is no ground, only a power or electric line and neutral line. A ground makes the circuit much safer, as it reduces excess electricity by transferring it to the ground.
Changing your home’s two-pronged outlets to three-prong will average $25 – $50 per outlet. A seasoned electrician can remove and replace about eight to ten per hour, so the more you have to replace, the less per outlet they will likely charge. New wiring or circuits will raise the price.
Total costs per outlet average $100 to $300 and will require running a new ground wire to your panel.
Tamper-Resistant Outlets
Tamper-resistant outlets are necessary to childproof an outlet, and they are required for new construction, though optional when replacing an old outlet. For the added expense, it is likely worth it for safety’s sake.
Changing to TR outlets throughout your house will cost about the same as upgrading two-prong outlets: $25 – $50, depending on what is required. Total installation costs average $130 to $300.
GFCI Outlets
Although GFCI receptacles cost about the same to install, these cost about $20 more to buy. Anywhere there is water, GFCI protection is typically required.
GFCI receptacles protect against ground-fault shock hazards, and they can also protect against fires and overheating of electrical wires.[1] If a separate circuit or larger circuit also needs to be added to meet code requirements, it will add to your expense.
Costs to install generally average $200 to $300 per outlet.
Special Receptacle Floor Outlets
Although the hourly rate for adding a floor receptacle to preclude running dangerous extension cords is the same as a wall outlet, however, it might require alterations, which would add to the expense. Floor outlets installed over a finished space will cost more than those installed over an unfinished basement or crawlspace.
Costs to install a floor outlet average $175 to $300 per outlet.
Smart Outlets
Many homeowners are using voice-activated hubs to automate their home’s lights with an internet or control hub. The price you will pay for this convenience is about $50 per hardwired unit, with total costs averaging $175 to $250 per outlet. However, the energy/electricity you will save by using these devices will pay for themselves over time.
Another option is to buy a wireless plug-and-play unit for $40 – $50. You can plug these into an outlet or power strip and pair it with your smart device.
Permit Costs
In some municipalities, a permit may be required for electrical alterations, including adding new receptacles. The cost of a permit could vary from $50 to over $350, depending on location. Check with your local codes or ask your electrician to confirm if a permit is necessary in your area.
Finding an Electrician
Find qualified electrical professionals in your area using our free contractor locator. Plus, you can get the help you need for just about any electrical project around the house using our electrical calculators and resources.
All pricing information on this page is based on average industry costs, and is subject to variance for project-specific materials, labor rates, and requirements.
References
- Occupational Safety and Health Administration - U.S. Department of Labor, Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI), https://www.osha.gov/electrical/hazards/grounding/gfci