How Much Does It Cost to Install a Light Switch per Switch Type?
When you hire a professional electrician to install a new light switch, they will charge you for the materials and the labor. Budget for between $50 and $100 per hour for labor. The cost for one light switch varies by type.
| Switch Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Traditional toggle and rocker light switches | $10 to $20 |
| Dimmer switches | $15 to $30 |
| Smart switches | $50 to $500 (depending on the features included) |
These costs are only for installing a new switch where new wiring needs to be installed, not replacing an old switch where wiring is already present.
Factors That Influence the Cost to Install a Light Switch
The cost to install a light switch is affected by a few things: the electricians per hour labor fee, the type of switch you’re having installed, and the location of the switch to be installed.
Labor
Your electrician will charge you a fixed price per hour for labor. Most electricians charge between a fixed price per hour ($50 and $150 an hour) regardless of the kind of work they’re performing. If your wiring is straightforward and your switches easy to install, your price will be lower than if your wiring needs a major overhaul before installing switches.
Materials
New wiring plus the cost of your switches will make up your materials cost.
The location of the switch will determine how much wire you need to power your fixture. Electrical wire costs between $0.50 and $1.00 per foot. Depending on the distance, wiring could increase your total cost by $20 to $30 or more.
Relocating Switches
If your electrician is moving a light switch from one location and installing it in another location, you’ll need to budget for a more complicated installation from beginning to end. To remove the switch, the electrician will need to detach and remove the old wiring.
Type of Light Switch
Your electrical needs will determine the type of light switch you choose, as different switches have different toggle and control features.
| Switch Type | Control Feature | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Single pole | Controls one fixture from one location | $1 – $10 each |
| Single pole double switch | Features two switches to control two fixtures, like a ceiling fan and attached light | $10 – $20 each |
| Three-way light switch | Controls one fixture from two locations | $3 – $20 each |
| Four-way light switch | Controls one fixture from multiple locations | $10 – $20 each |
How Much Does it Cost to Install a Light Switch Yourself?
Installing a light switch is a straightforward DIY task—if you have significant electrical experience. Some variables such as wiring and load capacities if you’re installing multiple switches, make this project dangerous. You’ll save on the cost of labor should you decide this is a project you can tackle. An experienced electrician might cost a little more initially, but they will complete the work quickly and to code.
