What You'll Actually Pay for an Electrical Panel Upgrade
Quick Answer: Most homeowners pay between $1,500 and $4,500 for an electrical panel replacement, with the average landing around $2,800. Your final cost depends on panel size, existing wiring condition, and whether your utility needs to upgrade service to your home.
Your electrical panel is the heart of your home's power system. If you're reading this, you're probably wondering whether it's time to upgrade—and what that's going to cost you. Let's break it down honestly.
200-Amp Panel Upgrade: The Most Common Choice
About 80% of panel upgrades we do are to 200-amp service. Here's what to expect:
- Panel cost: $150 to $600 for the box itself
- Total installed: $1,800 to $3,000
- Why it's popular: Handles modern homes with central air, electric dryers, and multiple high-draw appliances without breaking a sweat
If you're upgrading from 100-amp service, a 200-amp panel gives you room to grow. Adding an EV charger later? Hot tub? Workshop tools? You'll have the capacity.
400-Amp Service: For Larger Homes
Larger properties or homes with serious electrical demands may need 400-amp service:
- Total installed: $2,000 to $5,000+
- Usually involves: Installing two 200-amp panels (one as a subpanel)
- Best for: Large homes, home additions, multiple HVAC systems, or heavy workshop equipment
100-Amp Panel: Budget-Friendly Option
For smaller homes or rental properties:
- Panel cost: $75 to $250
- Total installed: $1,200 to $2,800
- Consider this if: You have a smaller home without central air or major electrical equipment
Fuse Box to Breaker Panel: A Safety Must
Still have a fuse box? That's a red flag for home insurance companies—and for good reason.
- Total conversion cost: $2,000 to $4,000
- Why it costs more: Often requires updating wiring to meet current electrical codes
- Why it matters: Modern circuit breakers are safer, more convenient, and required for home sales in most areas
Federal Pacific or Zinsco Panel? Replace It Now
These brands have documented safety defects that cause house fires. If your home has one, don't wait.
- Replacement cost: $2,000 to $4,500
- Insurance impact: Many insurers won't cover homes with these panels
- Our advice: This isn't optional maintenance—it's urgent safety work
What Drives the Final Price?
Your quote will vary based on:
- Wiring condition: Old or damaged wiring adds $1,500 to $10,000+ for rewiring
- Panel location: Moving a panel inside to outside (or vice versa) adds $1,500 to $2,500
- Permit fees: Vary by municipality, typically $75 to $300
- Utility coordination: Some upgrades require utility company work, which may be free or cost up to $1,500
Additional Components You May Need
| Component | Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Subpanel | $1,000 - $3,000 | Great for additions, garages, or workshops |
| AFCI breakers | $40 - $100 each | Required by code in bedrooms and living areas |
| GFCI breakers | $40 - $80 each | Required in bathrooms, kitchens, outdoors |
| Whole-house surge protector | $300 - $600 installed | Highly recommended—protects all your electronics |
| New meter base | $200 - $800 | Sometimes required with major upgrades |
Can You DIY an Electrical Panel?
No. This isn't a pride thing—it's illegal in most jurisdictions and genuinely dangerous. Electrical panels carry lethal voltage even when "off." Licensed electricians:
- Pull required permits
- Coordinate with your utility for safe disconnection
- Ensure code compliance for insurance and resale
- Guarantee their work
Signs You Need a Panel Upgrade
- Panel is more than 25 years old
- Breakers trip frequently
- Lights flicker when appliances run
- You're using lots of power strips and extension cords
- Burn marks or burning smell near the panel
- Adding major appliances (EV charger, hot tub, HVAC)
- Planning a home addition or renovation
How Long Does Installation Take?
Most straightforward panel replacements take 4 to 8 hours. More complex jobs involving wiring updates or panel relocation may take 1-2 days. Your power will be off during installation, so plan accordingly.
We Offer Financing
Panel upgrades are a significant investment. We've partnered with Wisetack to offer financing options, including plans with 0% interest for qualified customers. You can check your options right on your estimate—no impact to your credit score to see what you qualify for.
Get Your Free Estimate
Ready to upgrade? We'll assess your current system, discuss your electrical needs, and provide a detailed written estimate with no obligation. Contact us to schedule your free consultation.