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

Replacing an electrical panel in Boston averages around $1,620, with most installations falling between $680 and $2,565. Simple repairs or minor upgrades can cost as low as $150, while more expansive projects, such as relocating high‑amperage panels or rewiring older homes, can reach up to $5,000. Factors like panel type, amperage needs, labor costs, permitting, and the layout of your Boston home will influence the final price.

Electrical Panel Replacement Cost Factors

If you’re wondering whether you should upgrade your electrical system and how much to budget, these are the main factors to keep in mind.

Size and Amperage

Boston homes built before the 1960s may still use outdated 100‑amp panels, which aren’t capable of meeting modern electrical demands. The difference between 100 versus 200 amp service is considerable, and most homes today need at least 150‑ or 200‑amp panels to support high-voltage electrical loads from EV chargers, HVAC, or high-powered appliances. Here’s how the amperage prices out.

Panel Type

Your electrical box replacement cost in Boston will vary considerably depending on the panel type. Here’s how the costs break down.

Labor

Licensed local electricians in Boston charge $50 to $150 per hour, and projects take around 20 to 30 hours for a full panel replacement. You should expect labor costs between $1,000 and $4,500.

Permits and Inspections

When installing a new electrical panel in Boston, permit fees vary based on the scope of the work and voltage level. Boston’s Inspectional Services Department (ISD) charges a $20 application fee for an electrical service upgrade or new service installation. If it’s a panel replacement only, with no change in service, there is a $20 application fee, plus $1.00 for each fixture, plug, or outlet.

Accessibility and Home Layout

Boston’s older houses, like historic brownstones, triple-deckers, and pre-war buildings, can pose challenges when accessing or replacing an electrical panel. If the location of the electrical panel is in a tough spot, such as a tight utility closet, behind finished walls, or in a basement with limited headroom, your electrician may charge more to account for the extra labor or necessary demolitions to reach it.

Add-On Services

One of the most common electrical panel upgrade questions is whether additional work will be required, and how much it will cost. Depending on the condition of your existing setup and the scope of your project, several related services may be necessary to complete the job safely and up to code. Here are some typical add-ons and their estimated costs:

• 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

Electrician Pro Costs

Here’s what to consider when hiring a professional electrician for an electrical panel replacement in Boston.

Licensing and Insurance

All electricians in Massachusetts must be licensed through the Board of State Examiners of Electricians, holding either journeyman or master credentials. In addition, electricians are required to carry liability insurance and surety bonds. Liability insurance covers potential damage to your property during the project, while surety bonds help ensure the contractor meets all obligations and completes the work according to code. 

Before hiring an electrician, always verify their license status and ask for proof of insurance to make sure you’re working with a qualified, reputable professional.

Hourly Rates and Taxes

Electricians in the Boston area charge between $50 and $150 per hour, depending on their experience level, certification (journeyman vs. master electrician), and the complexity of the work. Master electricians generally charge at the higher end of the range, especially for major projects like electrical panel upgrades.

In addition to labor, don’t forget to factor in the Massachusetts state sales tax of 6.25% on materials, which may be included in your final bill. Some electricians also charge travel or service fees, especially for smaller jobs.

Tipping

Tipping isn't required nor expected for electrical work in Boston, but a 10% gratuity is a thoughtful way to show appreciation for outstanding service. However, leaving a positive review or recommending the electrician to others is often more valuable than cash.

Warranties

Most electricians provide warranties ranging from 1 to 5 years on their work or any equipment they install, including new electrical panels. These standard warranties typically cover issues related to faulty installation or defects in the materials used. 

For more comprehensive coverage, you may also have the option to purchase an extended warranty for added protection. Be sure to review the terms carefully and compare what’s included with the manufacturer’s warranty, as some overlapping coverage could make the extra cost unnecessary.

Does Electrical Panel Replacement Increase Home Value?

Yes—increased home value is one of the benefits of upgrading your electrical panel in Boston, especially in older neighborhoods like Dorchester, Jamaica Plain, or Charlestown, where pre-1950s homes are common. Homebuyers in Boston tend to favor the city’s historic charm, but they also prioritize the modern safety and efficiency of an updated electrical system. An upgraded panel shows that your home can safely handle today's electrical loads, making your listing more attractive on the market.

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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