How Much Does Commercial Sign Installation Cost? [2025 Data]
Commercial sign installation costs average $464, with most projects ranging from $181 to $804 on average. Your price depends on sign size, type, materials, and installation complexity.
The main commercial sign installation cost factors include sign size, type, materials, and features such as lighting or digital displays.
Expect to pay $10 to $300 per square foot for a commercial sign.
Well-placed, attractive signage can deliver a strong return on investment by increasing visibility and business by up to 10%.
Professional installation ensures your sign meets safety standards and local regulations, helping you avoid costly fines or repairs.
Always confirm permit requirements and consider additional costs for site preparation, especially for larger or illuminated signs.
This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by an Angi Editor in accordance with our AI policy.
Commercial sign installation cost averages $464, with most business owners spending between $181 and $804 on average. Prices depend on sign size, type, materials, and installation complexity. For custom or illuminated signs, expect to pay $10 to $300 per square foot, plus additional fees for permits and site preparation.
Understanding these costs helps you plan your project and avoid surprises. This guide will walk you through all the factors that affect commercial sign installation cost so you can make confident decisions.
Commercial Sign Installation Cost Factors
Several elements directly impact your commercial sign installation cost. Understanding these can help you plan a realistic budget.
Size
The size of your commercial sign plays a major role in determining installation costs. Larger signs require more materials, specialized equipment, and extra labor, which all impact your final price. The height, width, and total square footage directly affect how much you’ll pay, especially if your project calls for cranes or structural supports.
Storefront signs often range from 10 to 50 square feet, monument signs can be 20 to 80 square feet, and pylon signs may reach 100 square feet or more. Oversized or multi-panel signs require additional planning and resources, raising costs further.
Commercial Sign Installation Type
The type of commercial sign you choose is another primary cost driver. Each sign type presents unique installation challenges and price points. Monument signs, pylon signs, LED/digital signs, awning signs, window graphics, and A-frame signs all have different requirements for mounting, wiring, and permitting.
For example, digital signs involve complex electrical work, while monument and pylon signs often need concrete footings and heavy equipment. Simpler options like window graphics or A-frame signs cost less in both materials and installation.
| Sign Type | Description | Average Cost | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Channel letters | 3D lit letters on building facade | $3,000–$20,000 | High visibility, custom branding | Expensive, requires electrical work |
| Monument | Ground-level, freestanding sign | $5,000–$20,000 | Durable, professional appearance | Needs foundation, zoning required |
| Pylon | Tall, freestanding road sign | $10,000–$200,000+ | Maximum visibility | Most expensive, permitting complex |
| Digital/LED | Programmable electronic display | $750–$30,000+ | Dynamic messaging, attention-grabbing | High operating/maintenance costs |
| Awning | Canopy with printed graphics | $500–$5,000 | Shade plus advertising | Fabric can fade, limited lighting |
| Window graphics | Printed vinyl, applied to glass | $100–$1,000 | Affordable, quick install | Not as durable, less visible at night |
| A-frame | Portable sidewalk sign | $100–$500 | Moveable, low cost | Limited impact, weather vulnerability |
Location
Where you install your sign and your region’s pricing structures will influence your total commercial sign installation cost. Urban areas and high-cost states often have higher labor rates, material expenses, and permitting fees. Local codes may require more complex or costly permits.
Installation location also matters. Signs mounted on rooftops, tall buildings, or near busy roads can be more challenging and expensive due to accessibility, equipment needs, or safety requirements. Weather and climate affect installation costs as well—harsh regions may need extra weatherproofing.
Labor
Commercial sign installation often involves a team: sign installers, electricians for wiring, crane operators for large signs, and sometimes designers (who charge $50 to $150 per hour). Labor costs range from $2,000 to $5,000 on average, although signs that don’t require electrical wiring can cost as little as $100 to install. Minimum service fees apply to smaller jobs.
Permits
Most commercial signs require permits to ensure compliance with local codes and safety standards. Permit fees range from $400 to $2,500, depending on your city, sign type, and size. The process may include design reviews, inspections, and sometimes public hearings for variances. Skipping permits can result in fines or forced removal of your sign.
Features
Lighting—such as LED, neon, or backlit options—adds both materials and electrical labor costs. Digital displays or programmable message boards raise prices further. Custom graphics, logos, or branding elements require design work and specialized equipment. Weatherproofing, anti-graffiti coatings, and vandalism protection also add to your final bill.
Other Cost Factors
Complex designs or multi-material signs require more labor and planning.
Difficult installation sites (height, traffic, need for cranes/lifts) increase labor and equipment costs.
Site preparation may include removing old signs, repairing surfaces, or landscaping.
Delivery and transportation of large or heavy signs can add hundreds to thousands of dollars.
Post-installation cleanup and debris removal are often billed separately.
Design and engineering fees cover renderings and structural calculations.
Required inspections before and after installation may add to the overall expense.
Additional Costs to Consider
Beyond the initial installation, several ongoing and one-time expenses can affect your commercial sign investment.
Warranties
Most manufacturers offer warranties on sign materials and components for one to five years. Installer warranties cover workmanship for a set period. Extended warranties are available for an extra cost and may cover lighting, electronics, and structural elements.
Operating Costs
Illuminated and digital signs require electricity, which can add $20 to $100 per month in utility costs. Digital/message board signs may have software or subscription fees. Replacement bulbs, LEDs, or other electronic components also add to ongoing expenses.
Maintenance
Signs need routine cleaning and periodic inspections. Illuminated and digital signs often require annual servicing, while all signs benefit from occasional repainting or repairs due to weather, vandalism, or wear and tear. Maintenance contracts can help manage these costs.
Taxes
Expect to pay sales tax on both materials and installation services. Some localities assess business or signage-specific taxes based on sign size or value.
Insurance
Commercial signage often needs to be insured against damage, theft, or liability. Insurance costs depend on the sign’s value, location, and risk factors, and may be required by landlords or local ordinances.
DIY Commercial Sign Installation vs. Hiring a Pro
Installing a commercial sign yourself is possible in limited cases, but it often presents significant challenges and risks.
DIY Cost Considerations
DIY installation can save on labor but comes with material, tool, and equipment expenses. You’ll need ladders or lifts, power tools, and safety gear, plus knowledge of local codes. Permitting is your responsibility, and the process can be difficult without experience. DIY projects demand significant time and skill, and mistakes can void warranties or cause safety hazards.
Professional Installation Benefits
Hiring a professional means the labor and expertise are included in your price. Pros have access to specialized equipment and follow strict safety protocols. They handle permits and ensure code compliance. Professional installation also includes warranty coverage and shifts liability away from you.
| Installation Method | Included Services | Risks/Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| DIY | Materials, basic tools, site prep | Safety hazards, code issues, voided warranties |
| Pro | Labor, equipment, permits, warranty | Higher upfront cost, scheduling required |
Commercial Sign Installation Replacement vs. Repair
Deciding between repairing and replacing your sign comes down to cost, condition, and business needs.
When to Repair vs. Replace
If your sign shows wear, damage, or outdated branding, consider your options. The “50% rule” suggests replacing a sign if repairs exceed half the cost of a new one. Age, warranty status, and future needs all factor into your decision.
Common Repair Costs
Common repairs include fixing lights, electronics, or repainting. Minor work costs $200 to $800, while major repairs cost $1,500 to $7,000. Structural fixes or extensive electrical work cost more.
Replacement Considerations
New signs offer updated technology, improved materials, and compliance with current codes. Replacement is often a better investment if your sign is outdated, unreliable, or repairs are frequent.
Does Commercial Sign Installation Add Value to Your Business?
Well-designed commercial signage is a proven way to boost business visibility and draw in new customers. For many businesses, signage delivers a strong return on investment by increasing walk-in traffic and brand recognition, often resulting in a 7% to 10% increase in business.
Signage also supports safety and code compliance, especially with proper lighting and ADA features. Digital signs add efficiency with programmable messaging, while upgraded materials and technology improve durability and reduce maintenance. For owner-occupied commercial properties, quality signage can even enhance property value by making your business more attractive and accessible.
Long-term, investing in a durable, well-maintained sign reduces replacement costs and keeps your property looking professional for years to come.
Tips to Reduce Cost During Commercial Sign Installation
Consider these cost-saving strategies to make your commercial signage project more budget-friendly:
Get multiple quotes from licensed local sign installers.
Choose standard sizes and materials to lower costs.
Limit custom features or complex designs.
Schedule installation during off-peak times.
Handle site prep or old sign removal yourself (if safe/legal).
Bundle multiple signs or services for volume discounts.
Maintain signage regularly to avoid costly repairs.
How Angi Gets Its Cost Data
Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We extensively research project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We rely on reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
Want to help us improve our cost data? Send us a recent project quote to [email protected]. Quotes and personal information will not be shared publicly.
