How Much Does It Cost to Install Wi-Fi at Home?

This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by an Angi Editor in accordance with our AI policy.

The cost to install Wi-Fi at home averages $423, with most projects ranging from $186 to $687. Homeowners may pay as little as $85 for an apartment or one-bedroom home or up to $1,600 for a custom system in a large home. Costs vary based on your home’s size, the type of router or mesh system you choose, and installation complexity.

A reliable home Wi-Fi network is essential for work, entertainment, and security. This guide covers what impacts the cost of installing Wi-Fi at home, so you can plan your project with confidence.

Home Wi-Fi Installation Cost Factors

Several factors impact the total price of installing Wi-Fi in your home. Understanding these can help you budget wisely and avoid surprises.

Size

The size and layout of your home are major factors in Wi-Fi installation costs. Larger homes, multi-story layouts, or those with thick walls will need more equipment and careful planning to ensure strong, consistent coverage. Apartments and small homes can often get by with a single router, while bigger spaces might require extra access points or a mesh system.

Older homes or those with unusual layouts may present challenges, such as thick plaster or brick walls that block signals. In these cases, installers may recommend additional equipment, like boosters, repeaters, or extenders, or creative solutions to maintain a strong connection in every room.

Labor

Professional Wi-Fi installers include IT specialists, electricians, and general tech installers. Labor rates often range from $50 to $100 per hour, with some companies charging a minimum service fee of $100 to $150. Professional installation covers a site assessment, equipment setup, configuration, and testing to ensure coverage throughout your home.

Labor costs can vary by region, with higher rates in urban areas or places with a higher cost of living. You may pay extra for after-hours service or especially complex installations, such as running cables through walls or ceilings.

Permits

Most basic Wi-Fi installations do not require permits. However, if new wiring is needed or if installers must drill through walls or floors, you may need a low-voltage wiring permit. Permit costs are between $20 and $100, depending on your local regulations. Always check with your local building department before starting your project to avoid unexpected fees or delays.

Additional Features

Upgrading to advanced equipment, like mesh Wi-Fi systems or Wi-Fi 6/6E routers, will increase your upfront investment but can provide better speed and coverage. Adding hardwired Ethernet ports, wall-mounted access points, or network switches will also raise installation costs.

If you want to integrate home automation devices—such as security cameras, thermostats, or lighting—your installer may charge extra for configuration and troubleshooting. Network security features, like firewalls or parental controls, are sometimes included but can be an additional cost for advanced setups. Custom cabling, wall penetrations, or cable runs through attics or basements require more labor and materials, affecting your final bill.

Additional Cost Factors to Consider

• Complex installations (multi-story homes, thick walls, long cable runs)

• Hard-to-access areas (finished basements, crawl spaces, attics)

• Site preparation, such as moving furniture or patching walls after drilling

• Removal and disposal of old networking equipment or cables

• Final cleanup and post-installation testing

• Design or consultation fees for custom network layouts

• Inspection fees if required by local building codes

Ongoing Costs

When planning your Wi-Fi installation, remember to budget for more than just the upfront labor and equipment. Ongoing costs include your monthly internet service provider (ISP) fees, which are not part of installation but are essential for Wi-Fi functionality.

Routers and network devices use a small amount of electricity, costing just a few dollars per year. Some advanced security or parental control features require a monthly or annual subscription.

Maintenance

Wi-Fi networks require occasional maintenance, such as firmware updates, device resets, or troubleshooting. Professional support or annual maintenance plans range from $50 to $150 per year, depending on the provider and complexity. Replacing outdated or malfunctioning equipment is another potential cost, with new routers or mesh nodes costing $100 to $400 each.

Taxes

Sales tax applies to both equipment and installation services, with rates varying by region. Be sure to account for this when budgeting for your project, as taxes can add 5% to 10% to your total cost.

Insurance

Homeowners insurance may cover Wi-Fi equipment against damage or theft, but check your policy for details. Some insurers require professional installation or proof of purchase to process claims for networking hardware.

DIY Home Wi-Fi Installation vs. Hiring a Pro

Some homeowners consider installing Wi-Fi themselves to save money, while others prefer the expertise and convenience of hiring a professional. Let’s look at both approaches.

If you choose to install Wi-Fi yourself, your main costs will be equipment (router, mesh system, or access points) and any necessary materials, such as Ethernet cables, wall mounts, or cable management supplies. Expect to spend $75 to $400 on equipment, depending on your home’s needs.

DIY setup requires a time investment for unboxing, placement, configuration, and troubleshooting. Common pitfalls include weak coverage, security vulnerabilities, or device incompatibility. DIY is best for small homes or straightforward setups where you feel confident with basic networking.

Hiring a local technician adds labor costs but ensures that your system is set up for optimal coverage, speed, and security. Professionals can handle advanced configurations and troubleshoot any issues on the spot. Many installers offer warranties or support packages for added peace of mind.

Home Wi-Fi Replacement vs. Repair

When your Wi-Fi system is not performing well, you might wonder whether to repair or replace it. Intermittent connections, slow speeds, or frequent device failures are signs that repairs may be needed. Simple repairs, such as replacing cables or fixing minor hardware issues, cost $50 to $150.

If your equipment is outdated, frequently malfunctions, or can’t meet your growing coverage needs, replacement is the better investment. The 50% rule is a good guideline: if repair costs are more than half the price of new equipment, replacement makes more sense. New routers or mesh systems cost $100 to $400, plus any installation fees.

Tips to Reduce Cost While How Much Does It Cost to Install Wi-Fi at Home

Let’s look at some practical ways to keep the cost of installing Wi-Fi in your home budget-friendly:

• Request estimates from at least three local Wi-Fi installers. Compare their services, warranties, and reviews to find the best fit for your needs and budget.

• Choose routers or mesh systems tailored to your home’s size and internet usage. Avoid paying for features you do not need.

• If your layout is straightforward and you are comfortable with basic technology, self-installation can save on labor costs.

• Many installers offer discounts if you combine Wi-Fi installation with other projects, such as smart home device setup or security camera installation.

• Reusing current cabling or network hardware can significantly reduce both material and labor expenses.

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. 

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