Generator install costs depend on your project and location. Check with a local pro for your specific job.
Generator installation pros in Chicago, IL, charge $140 to $150 per hour.
Generator size has the most influence on the project cost.
Older homes that require electrical upgrades will see higher total costs.
Local generator installers in Chicago, IL, will help you calculate permit costs.
Generator transfer switch installation costs in Chicago, IL, are around $1,502, with costs ranging from $1,243 to $1,658. The city is prone to heavy snowfall and winter storms that can cause power outages, sometimes for extended periods. If you want to keep your home safe during any outages, include these costs in your project budget.
Generator transfer switch installation costs in Chicago, IL, are determined by generator size. The type of transfer switch can also affect the cost, with manual switches being less expensive than automatic ones.
Depending on the size of your generator, you’ll need a transfer switch of the same capacity and ampacity to keep your Chicago, IL home running during an emergency. Here’s how the cost is impacted by generator size in watts:
| Generator Size in Watts | Number of Circuits to Power | Average Cost Range | Type of Generator |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small (up to 5,000 watts) | 6–10 | $207–$518 | Small portable generators |
| Medium (5,000–10,000 watts) | 10–16 | $518–$1,036 | Mid-sized generators |
| Large (10,000+ watts) | 16–24 | $1,036–$2,590 | Whole-house generators |
An automatic generator switch is more expensive than a manual switch. Here’s how the two compare:
| Automatic Generator Transfer Switch | Manual Generator Transfer Switch |
|---|---|
| Average cost: $621–$4,144 | Average cost: $414–$2,590 |
| Detects power loss and switches over instantly. | Requires you to physically flip a lever or dial. |
| Fast response time—within 10 to 30 seconds. | Slower response time—dependent on finding the switch. |
| Best for: whole-house generators | Best for: portable generators |
As the amp requirement increases, the cost of the generator transfer switch will also rise. That’s because higher-amperage switches use stronger parts and better materials to safely handle the extra electricity, which makes them more expensive to manufacture.
Multi-circuit transfer switches get more expensive as the number of circuits increases. That’s because more circuits mean more hardware and wiring inside the box, and they can also make installation more labor-intensive. For example, a six-circuit switch might start around $208, while a 16-circuit unit often costs $1,036 or more.
To ensure your electrical panel is up to code, your electrician may need to upgrade your electrical panel or subpanel, or install new circuit breakers, before installing a generator transfer switch. Here’s what you might pay for each task:
| Electrical Upgrades | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Electrical panel replacement | $538–$2,176 |
| Subpanel installation | $414–$1,813 |
| Circuit breaker switch installation | $103–$208 per switch |
The average cost for a generator transfer switch permit is between $51 and $363. While obtaining a permit for a portable generator isn’t usually necessary, installing a whole-home generator requires a permit for electrical upgrades.
On average, generator installation pros in Chicago, IL, charge between $140 and $150 per hour. Permits for generator work vary based on the project cost. Cook County requires a permit fee equal to 1/10 of 1% of the estimated cost of the work, or $25, whichever is greater. A local pro will work with you to navigate these costs and obtain permits.
Hiring a Chicago, IL, generator installer is the safest way to install a transfer switch because the work involves your home's main electrical panel and must comply with local electrical codes. A professional can determine the right transfer switch for your generator, obtain the required permits, and complete the installation safely to help prevent electrical hazards and protect your home's electrical system.
Yes, installing a whole-home generator with a transfer switch in Chicago, IL, can increase home value. Homeowners see an average increase of 3% to 5% and a 50% to 150% return on investment (ROI). Heavy snowfall and winter storms are common in the city, resulting in power outages. Potential buyers will find a generator with a transfer switch extremely valuable.
To help homeowners plan their next project, Angi provides readers with carefully researched cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We start with national average project costs, which we collect by analyzing competitor information, retailer material costs, and input from professional contractors. We then apply local price index data to calculate location-specific estimates that reflect what homeowners typically pay in their local area. To do that, we use data from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), including its Regional Price Parities (RPPs), which measure price differences across cities. This helps us account for differences in labor, materials, and overall cost of living, so estimates in higher- or lower-cost areas better reflect real-world local pricing.
Every estimate undergoes a thorough editorial review to verify accuracy, consistency, and alignment with observed market conditions.
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.
Steve installed 2 electrical outlets for us. I was impressed by his professionalism and his worked was impeccable. I would highly recommend him for any job you are seeking.
312 Bathroom and Home RemodelingHe was professional, punctual, and took the time to explain everything clearly before starting the job. The work was completed efficiently, the area was left clean, and the quality of the installation exceeded my expectations. It's hard to find someone who is knowledgeable, honest, and...
Sparkwave Electric LLCThe installers with the white trucks are amazing and the materials and finish first class, looks like buying a new home, 100% recommended.
LockTight Impact Windows, Doors & RoofingGreat work. Good communication. Thanks for the successful install!
Very professional and on time. Installation time quoted was accurate and installers cleaned up after themselves. Would recommend for thermostat installation.
Nextech Energy Systems, LLCAmazing installers. Easy to work with and extremely capable. These guys went above and beyond when asked to do night work and in field modifications. Looking forward to working with again.
Schim, LLCJack install my composite deck. Great attention to detail, on time and not expensive. I would hire him again and I recommended his firm to two neighbors.
J Sitko ConstructionIt was a custom job and Mario went quite a ways just to get the items needed to do it. He was back the following day and installed within 3 hours. Job came out great... exactly what I requested of him. Nicest guy. I will certainly keep his card on file and up front!
M & C RemodelersGreat installation! Attention to details, on time, nice and clean job at the best price. I will strongly recommend hiring them again!
Lykos Construction, Corp.Fast response. Got a new motor installed for my garage door within couple of hours.
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