How Much Does Microwave Installation Cost? [2026 Data]

In 2026, the national average cost for microwave installation is $155, based on 1,765 verified projects from Angi Pros. Most homeowners pay between $120 and $222, with the total driven by microwave type, kitchen layout complexity, and whether electrical or venting work is needed.

Microwave Installation Cost Factors: What Determines the Price?

Your cost to install a microwave depends on the price of the unit itself, along with labor and any custom cabinet work your kitchen requires. Labor, electrical work, ventilation, and cabinet modifications can all add to the total. Here is a breakdown of what you can expect:

New Microwave

A new microwave costs between $60 and $5,000, with the type and brand being the primary cost drivers. A standard countertop microwave sits at the lower end, running $60 to $100. A high-end stainless steel microwave and convection oven combo can cost upward of $2,000, while a smart microwave and wall oven combo ranges between $2,000 and $5,000. 

Microwaves on the higher end often include smart features like app controls and sensors that sync with other appliances in your kitchen.

Microwave Mount

Mounting kits range between $20 and $50. The final cost to mount your microwave depends on where you plan to place it and whether any additional work is needed. If you already have an electrical outlet, a sturdy wall, and a model that does not require ventilation, you may be able to DIY the job for the cost of the mounting kit alone.

Labor 

Most microwave installations require a pro and take one to three hours, with basic replacement labor running $50 to $80 per hour. If your project calls for additional contractors, electricians charge $40 to $100 per hour, and cabinet installers charge $40 to $80 per hour. Bringing in multiple trades is common for over-the-range or built-in installations that involve ductwork or cabinetry changes.

Electrical Wiring

Upgrading an old outlet costs $65 to $150, while upgrading your electrical panel runs $800 to $2,000. Even if your existing system is in good shape, installing a new outlet near your microwave costs $150 to $350.

Getting your electrical wiring in good working order before installing a new microwave is essential, especially in older homes where upgrades may be needed.

Modifying or Updating Cabinets

Built-in and drawer microwaves often require cabinet modifications, with the cost to modify a single cabinet running $400 to $500. If new cabinetry is needed, expect to pay $500 to $1,500 per linear foot. A cabinet specialist can give you an accurate quote based on your specific kitchen layout. 

Ventilation

Vented over-the-range microwaves may require new ductwork, which costs $150 to $600 to install. A direct vent to the outdoors is the recommended approach, since venting into an attic, crawl space, or shared ductwork is not permitted. If your kitchen lacks existing ductwork, factor this cost into your total budget before committing to a vented model. 

Removal and Disposal of an Old Microwave

Some pros haul away your old one at no extra charge, but if microwave disposal is not included in your quote, expect to pay $20 to $50. Always confirm disposal is covered before the job begins to avoid a surprise charge.

Microwave Installation Cost by Type

The type of microwave you choose is one of the biggest factors in your total installation cost, with options ranging from simple countertop units to full combo ovens. Each type comes with its own installation requirements, labor demands, and price point. Here is a breakdown of installation costs by microwave type:

Countertop 

Countertop microwaves are the easiest and most affordable type to install, with total costs for labor and materials running $100 to $580. Countertop units themselves range between $50 and $500, making this the most budget-friendly microwave option overall.

Over-the-Range

Over-the-range microwaves save counter space and double as a range hood vent, with units priced at $150 to $600 and total installation costs of $250 to $1,200. This style works best for homeowners who do not need a full-sized vent hood—if you cook frequently and rely on strong ventilation, consider a different option.

When it comes to the type of microwave installation most homeowners want, the choice is overwhelmingly clear. Based on the responses of 4,800 Angi customers, 85% of all microwave installation requests are for over-the-range microwaves. This is most likely due to their ability to save counter space and act as a ventilation fan for the stovetop.

Built-In

Built-in microwaves are a strong alternative to over-the-range models for the dedicated home cook, with units costing $400 to $2,000 and total installation running $500 to $2,500. This style delivers a custom, space-saving look that suits kitchens where countertop real estate matters.

Drawer

Drawer microwaves—sometimes called under-counter microwaves—are top-loading units that fit into bottom cabinets, with installation alone running $260 to $430. The units themselves cost $1,000 to $2,000, bringing the total to $1,260 to $2,430. This is a modern, sleek option that keeps the microwave out of sight while remaining easy to access.

Combo Oven

Wall oven and microwave combo units are a smart investment for kitchen remodels or new construction, with total costs ranging from $2,600 to $5,200. Labor averages $100 to $200, while the units themselves run $2,500 to $5,000. These appliances offer a modern look and are well-suited to homeowners who want the convenience of a microwave alongside a full baking oven in one built-in unit.

Microwave Installation Costs by Location: Where Does It Vary Most?

In most states, microwave installation costs between $100 and $200, based on actual project costs reported by over 1,600 Angi members. Connecticut and Hawaii are notable exceptions, where costs exceed $200. Getting an exact quote from a local pro is always the most reliable way to budget for your specific location.

How Much Does a Microwave Installation Pro Cost?

You won't need to call in a local microwave installation pro if you purchase a countertop model that simply sits on the surface, and mounting one is within reach for most DIYers. However, unless you're a home-improvement guru, built-in microwaves—or any setup that needs cabinet modifications or venting—are best left to the pros. This avoids costly carpentry blunders or a microwave that overheats thanks to poor airflow.

Here’s why it’s ideal to hire a microwave installation pro

Not sure if it’s worth paying a pro to put your microwave in place? These reasons might nudge you in that direction:

• Pros know how to pick the right size and type of microwave to fit your cabinetry or over your range.

• You don’t have to worry about moving or damaging a heavy appliance.

• They’ve got the know-how to fit the microwave neatly while still allowing enough airflow to prevent overheating.

• DIY mistakes can lead to costly cabinetry, countertop, or wall repairs.

• In some cases, your built-in microwave’s warranty will only be valid if a professional handles the fitting.

If you want to DIY microwave installation

For built-in microwave installations that are out of your DIY league, you can save the pros some time—and maybe reduce your bill—by tackling these tasks in advance of their visit:

• Clear your kitchen counters and around the installation area.

• Remove and dispose of any old microwave safely.

• Hold onto old hardware that’s in good condition, as the pros may be able to reuse it.

• Buy the right microwave ahead of time, especially if you want to bag a bargain sale model. 

Microwave Installation Additional Costs: What to Budget For

The best way to save on microwave installation costs is to choose a unit that’s easy to install. Countertop microwaves usually don’t require anything more than clearing off space and a good, working outlet.

If you’ve decided on an over-the-range microwave and don’t have existing ductwork, going with a recirculating unit will save installation costs. Also, if you’re handy, you may be able to remove the existing hood vent on your own to save on labor costs.

Additionally, it’s a good idea to plan which appliances you want built in before you install any cabinetry. This is only possible for kitchen remodels or new construction, but if you know what you want beforehand, you can prep the cabinets for your appliances.

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’ve surveyed thousands of 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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