How Much Does Electrical Box Replacement Cost in San Francisco? [2025 Data]

Everywhere you look, prices seem to be soaring, especially if you live in the popular city of San Francisco. That means you can expect to pay more for electrical repairs, too. The average electrical box replacement cost in San Francisco is $2,137, but it can range between $795 and $3,555.

The amount you will pay depends on several factors, ranging from amperage to add-on tasks. This guide will lead you through the different scenarios to budget for when replacing an in your San Francisco home.

Electrical Box Replacement Cost Factors

Like other electrical projects, many factors will determine the price tag for this task. Amperage size, type of electrical box, and accessibility are among the main things that a professional electrician will consider when providing a quote for the job.

The lowest price for minor jobs is around $150, but it can reach up to $7,000 to replace a high-amperage electrical box in San Francisco. 

Amperage 

One of the main factors that will influence the price is the amperage size of the electrical box. The median size of a home in San Francisco is about 1,316 square feet. Unless you have a very large home that exceeds 3,000 square feet or plan to add multiple large appliances, a 200-watt amp should be sufficient for your home.

For modern homes, the most commonly used amperage is 200 watts. Older and smaller homes often have 100-watt boxes but this size may struggle to keep up with the electrical demands of modern appliances. 

Panel Type

The type of box also significantly determines the price. Something to note is that unless your home’s electrical system has been updated, you will need to have a professional electrician upgrade the electrical panel, wiring, and other components as well. The Bay area is known to have some of the oldest homes in the country, where the median age of local homes is 77 years old.

Homeowners in the Bay Area can be denied homeowners insurance or even have their policies canceled for owning an outdated electrical system. Whether you will need a complete rewire and electrical box upgrade depends on whether your home has been updated or not.

Accessibility and Complexity of Installation

If a job is complex, it can significantly increase the cost of replacing the electrical panel. For example, older homes in San Francisco may have wiring that is difficult to access, such as in attics and behind walls with lath and plaster, which will make the job more challenging and time-consuming.

Upgrading an electrical box to a higher amperage may also require updating the wiring, which is going to cost more than a simple installation. The cost to upgrade a panel from a 100 watt to a 200 watt box ranges between $1,300 and $3,000.

Another complex and expensive task is relocating the electrical box. The average cost to relocate an electrical panel is $3,500 but can range from $1,500 to $4,000. The distance the box needs to move is one of the primary factors determining the cost.

Add-On Services

Once you find an electrician you can trust, you may be ready to tackle other projects your home needs. When it comes to electrical work, it’s always best to have an experienced electrician to handle the job. Here are some additional services to consider having a pro take on during an electrical upgrade:

• Move electric panel: $1,500–$4,000 

• Installing new drywall: $1.50–$3 per square foot

• Adding outlet: $125–$200

• Replacing faulty wiring: $600 to $4,500

• Add new circuits: $570–$1,000

Electrician Costs in San Francisco

Check out these additional factors to consider when hiring a local electrician in San Francisco.

Licensing and Insurance

All electricians working in San Fran must be properly licensed and insured with the Division of Labor Standards and Enforcement. The type of licensing depends on the level of achievement of the electrician, ranging from apprentice to master electrician. Keep in mind that state-certified electrician licensing and contractor licensing differs, so be sure to confirm your pro’s licensure before hiring for an electrical box replacement.

Hourly Rates 

The cost to hire an electrician in San Francisco is around $2,137. The average hourly rate for an electrician runs between $50 to $130, but it may also cost you an additional $100 to $200 service call fee for the first hour of their time.

The electrician's experience also factors into the price. For example, a master electrician is more expensive than a standard electrician because they have a higher level of experience and can tackle more complex tasks.

However, it’s vital to hire a qualified electrician to replace your electrical box because working with electricity is extremely dangerous and should be done by a trained professional. 

Tipping

While tipping is not expected for skilled trade workers like electricians, you can offer a 10% gratuity for exceptional service. However, leaving positive online reviews and recommending them to others is the most valuable “thank you.” 

Does Replacing the Electrical Box Increase Home Value?

The average return on investment for replacing an electrical box is usually around 53 percent. However, having a new electrical panel installed can be a key selling point for potential buyers in San Francisco.If you own an older home with an outdated electrical system, it may deter potential buyers from considering your property.

An upgraded electrical box can motivate buyers due to the benefits it offers, such as enhanced safety features and increased efficiency. Additionally, purchasing a new home is stressful enough without worrying about incurring an extra expense, such as replacing the electrical box. 

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 survey real Angi customers about their project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from 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. 

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