
If you’re planning to hire an electrician to install outdoor lights, consider cost factors like light type, bulb type, quantity, and more.
Adding an electrical outlet in Los Angeles costs $230 on average, with most homeowners paying between $146 and $315. A licensed electrician will consider outlet type, location, and permit needs to determine your final cost.
Outlet type, quantity, and placement can significantly affect your final cost, and specialty outlets like GFCI, USB, or smart models will cost more to install.
Labor rates in Los Angeles average $50 to $100 per hour, and electricians often charge a minimum service fee of $100 to $200 per visit.
Permit requirements through LADBS and California’s strict licensing rules add extra steps and fees to the installation process.
Adding an electrical outlet in Los Angeles costs around $230 on average, with most installations falling between $146 and $315. Homeowners in Los Angeles should expect to pay more for electrical upgrades due to the city’s high labor rates and strict code requirements.
The final price depends on factors like outlet type, ease of installation, and whether permits are needed. Check out the details below to see what you might spend when adding outlets in your LA home.
The cost to add an electrical outlet in Los Angeles depends on these key factors.
The type of outlets you install will impact your budget. For instance, the cost to install a GFCI outlet is higher than that of a standard outlet, but it offers significant safety benefits and may be required by building codes depending on the room.
Outlet Type | Average Cost per Outlet | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|---|
Standard (120V) | $3–$5 | Low cost, widely compatible | Limited features, basic power supply |
Heavy-duty (220V+) | $10–$20 | Supports high-power appliances | Higher cost, requires special wiring |
GFCI | $7–$25 | Protects against electrical shock | Higher cost than standard outlets |
AFCI | $20–$30 | Prevents electrical fires from arc faults | Higher price, more complex installation |
Floor | $30–$50 | Convenient for open spaces | More prone to damage, higher cost |
Coax | $5–$10 | Supports cable TV and internet | Limited to specific uses |
Tamper-resistant | $5–$10 | Safer for children | Slightly higher cost |
Smart | $25–$50 | Remote-controlled, energy monitoring | Expensive, requires Wi-Fi |
Rotating | $8–$20 | Adjustable angle for better plug access | Higher cost |
Outdoor | $1,000–$1,400 | Weatherproof, durable | High cost, specialized installation |
LED | $10–$30 | Provides lighting, energy-efficient | Higher price, limited use cases |
USB | $20–$40 | Convenient charging without adapters | More expensive, may have limited power |
Recessed | $10–$60 | Saves space, safer for furniture placement | Higher cost, more complex installation |
Ceiling | $3–$5 | Ideal for lighting fixtures | Limited to lighting applications |
TV | $3–$5 | Designed for television and AV equipment | Limited use, minimal additional features |
Electrical installation costs in Los Angeles increase based on the number of outlets, though you’ll often see price breaks per outlet for larger quantities.
Number of Outlets | Average Cost Range |
---|---|
1 | $146–$315 |
2 | $290–$640 |
3 | $450–$960 |
4 | $575–$1,280 |
5 | $730–$1,600 |
6 | $875–$1,900 |
7 | $1,025–$2,200 |
8 | $1,175–$2,500 |
9 | $1,300–$2,800 |
10 | $1,450–$3,100+ |
Where you place your electrical outlets plays a role in your overall cost. Outlets placed in hard-to-reach spots, like crawl spaces, behind appliances, or in finished walls, can increase labor fees on your final bill. Consult your electrician about the placement of outlets prior to your appointment to ensure smooth installation.
If your current wiring is outdated or damaged, your electrician may need to replace it before installing the outlet, which can cost between $550 and $2,500, depending on the extent of the issue. This added work not only increases the total cost but can also extend the overall project timeline.
Basic outlet covers, usually made of plastic and costing less than $10, are often included in a typical installation. If you prefer a designer finish, like bronze or brushed nickel, you may pay upwards of $100 per cover.
Most outlets in a home are used for plug-in power or to operate light switches. If you're adding an outlet that functions as a switch, you can expect the cost to be slightly higher.
Outlet technology can drive up your project cost, depending on what you choose. Common add-ons like GFCI, smart controls, or USB ports come with higher price points than standard outlets.
Labor charges, permits, and licensing also play a role in what you’ll ultimately pay for this project.
A local Los Angeles electrician charges an average of $50 to $100 per hour. You can also expect to pay at least $100 to $200 per visit, as most electricians have minimum service fees.
While L.A. charges taxes on some forms of labor, these won’t apply to this project. So, you’ll only pay L.A.’s combined sales tax of 9.75% on materials.
In California, pro electricians must hold a C-10 Electrical Contractor license issued by the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB). This license requires verified experience, passing a state exam, and proof of insurance.
Reputable electricians in Los Angeles also carry general liability insurance and workers’ compensation to cover accidents or property damage during the job. Before hiring, be sure to confirm both licensing and insurance coverage.
Permits from the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS) are required for any type of electrical work in L.A. County, so expect to pay an extra fee to ensure compliance. Your electrician will pull the proper permits and inform you of any additional fees.
Adding a few new outlets might not be something Los Angeles homebuyers specifically look for, but it can definitely boost your home’s overall functionality and appeal. Buyers often expect modern, move-in-ready spaces that accommodate today’s technology and appliances. A shortage of outlets might raise concerns about outdated electrical systems or future costly upgrades. Plus, if your home doesn’t meet California’s current electrical code, adding outlets may be a necessary step before it goes on the market.
While adding a single outlet won’t raise your home’s market value on its own, adding outlets with features like USB ports in bedrooms or extra receptacles in kitchens and garages are subtle details that can help make your home look modern and turnkey. Buyers might not count outlets during a walkthrough, but they will likely take note of the space’s overall functionality.
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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