How Much Does Adding an Electrical Outlet Cost in Columbus?

In a city filled with historic homes and new builds alike, Columbus homeowners often add outlets to make their spaces more modern and functional. Adding an electrical outlet in Columbus costs $169 on average, with prices ranging from $116 to $229.

The final price depends on the type of outlet, wall accessibility, and whether your electrical system needs upgrades to meet Ohio code. Use this guide to help estimate your costs when planning for additional outlets in your Arch City home.

Adding an Electrical Outlet Cost Factors in Columbus

These are the key factors to consider when planning your budget for adding an electrical outlet in Columbus.

Outlet Type

Outlet type plays a major part in installation costs, especially for specialty outlets. For instance, the cost to install a GFCI outlet tends to be more than that of a regular outlet, but it's often required in moisture-prone areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and basements to comply with safety codes.

Number of Outlets

Adding multiple outlets during a single visit is more cost-effective than scheduling separate installations. Check out this breakdown to estimate pricing for adding one to 10 outlets in Columbus.

Location

The placement of your electrical outlets can increase your labor costs. Your installation price can go up if the outlet needs to be placed behind large appliances or within hard-to-reach wall spaces. 

Current Wiring

Columbus has plenty of historical and older homes, especially in neighborhoods like the German Village and Italian Village. Older properties may require electrical upgrades to meet modern standards. If your wiring needs replacement, you could spend an extra $550 to $2,500 before the new outlet is even installed.

Faceplate Materials

Standard plastic covers cost under $10 and are often included in the project cost. Decorative options, like wood or metallic finishes, can exceed $100 depending on the material.

Switches vs. Sockets

If the outlet you're installing also controls a light or fan, it may require extra wiring. These switch-style outlets tend to cost more than traditional power outlets.

Advanced Technology

Tech-forward outlets like GFCI, USB, or smart plugs cost more than standard models, but they can improve convenience and help your home meet modern codes.

Electrician Pro Costs in Columbus

Hiring a licensed electrician comes with a few different aspects to consider. Here’s what to know before you start the process.

Hourly Rates and Minimum Fees

Columbus electricians usually charge hourly rates between $50 and $100 per hour. Even for small tasks like installing one outlet, expect a minimum visit fee of $100 to $200. This charge covers travel and material costs for the electrician.

Taxes

Ohio’s state sales tax of 7.50% will apply to the materials used to install an electrical outlet, such as the outlet itself, wiring, and wall plates. However, the labor for installation is not taxed if the work qualifies as a real property improvement, which most residential electrical upgrades do. If the installation is not considered a permanent home improvement, labor charges may also be taxable. It’s a good idea to consult your electrician if you have any questions about taxes included in your project.

Licensing and Insurance Requirements

Before hiring an electrician in Ohio, make sure you're working with a professional who is properly licensed through the Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board (OCILB) and carries at least $500,000 in liability insurance. For residential work, many electricians operate under a licensed contractor rather than holding a license themselves, so be sure to verify who is overseeing the work and check their credentials through the OCILB. See the City of Columbus Citizen Access Portal to verify your contractor’s credentials.

Permits

In Columbus, you’ll need an electrical permit for most electrical work, including adding an outlet. Permits are required when altering or installing permanent wiring, installing a new receptacle, or upgrading systems like fuse boxes. Electrical work must be inspected upon completion. Failing to secure a permit can result in fines and unsafe installations, so it’s always best to check with the city before starting any electrical project.

Does Adding an Electrical Outlet Increase Home Value?

Columbus buyers tend to look for homes that are both practical and future-ready, especially with a younger demographic entering the market. While adding an electrical outlet won’t significantly raise your home’s value, it does add convenience, especially in older homes where outlets may be scarce or poorly placed. Buyers may not consciously count outlets, but a well-distributed and updated electrical system creates a more livable space. Features like kitchen appliance outlets or bedroom USB ports can subtly enhance your home’s appeal and reduce buyer concerns about future electrical work.

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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