How Much Does Adding an Electrical Outlet Cost in Austin? [2025 Data]

With Austin’s rapid growth and influx of tech-forward lifestyles, adding electrical outlets has become a common upgrade in both new builds and mid-century homes. Installing an outlet in Austin costs $264, with most homeowners spending between $154 and $373.

Prices vary based on outlet type, wall accessibility, and whether your electrical system needs updates to meet Texas code. This guide will help you estimate the costs of upgrading your Austin home's electrical access.

Adding an Electrical Outlet Cost Factors

These are the key factors that play into your cost to add an electrical outlet in Austin. 

Outlet Type

There are a variety of outlet types to choose from, each with its own price point. While a standard model is the most affordable, options like USB ports or the cost to install a GFCI outlet will come at a premium, depending on code and convenience. Check out the average material costs for each type of outlet.

Number of Outlets

Completing multiple outlet installations together usually reduces the overall cost compared to individual jobs. Here are estimated prices for installing up to 10 new outlets in Austin.

Location

The placement of your electrical outlets can affect the cost. Installing outlets in hard-to-reach spots, like brick walls or tight utility closets, will increase labor time and, consequently, pricing.

Current Wiring

Older wiring systems, especially in Austin’s vintage neighborhoods, may need upgrades before safe outlet installation. Depending on the scope, electrical rewiring can run between $550 and $2,500, adding both cost and time to the project.

Faceplate Materials

Basic outlet covers are often included and cost less than $10. For those opting for stylish faceplates in materials like matte black or brass, the can raise costs to $100 or more.

Switches vs. Sockets

Some homeowners in Austin choose combination outlets that double as switches for lighting or ceiling fans. These outlets require more wiring work and may increase installation expenses compared to standard sockets.

Advanced Technology

With Austin’s reputation as a tech-savvy city, the demand for smart outlets and USB ports is high. These features add convenience but also increase the cost over a standard outlet.

Electrician Pro Costs in Austin

Hiring a licensed electrician in Austin comes with a few different factors to consider. Here’s what to know before you hire.

Hourly Rates and Minimum Fees

Local electricians in Austin charge $50 to $100 per hour for their labor. Despite the short time needed to install a single outlet, a minimum service fee of $100 to $200 often applies to cover the cost of travel and materials.

Taxes

Electrician labor is not taxable in Austin if it’s for a residential (not commercial) property. However, materials like wiring and receptacles are subject to Austin’s sales tax of 8.25%.

Licensing and Insurance Requirements

Before hiring an electrician in Austin, verify that they hold a valid state-issued license. Contractors are also required to carry liability insurance and must either have workers’ compensation coverage or officially decline it through the state. Confirming these details upfront helps ensure your project is code-compliant and protects you from potential risks or liability.

Permits

Adding an electrical outlet requires a permit through the City of Austin Development Services Department. If you have experience and know how to install an electrical outlet safely, then you can also apply for a homeowner’s permit to DIY the job. Either way, it will need to pass an inspection when the project is complete.

Does Adding an Electrical Outlet Increase Home Value?

Austin homebuyers may not notice a few new outlets right away, but the added functionality can make a difference, especially in older homes that predate modern tech demands. Many buyers in this fast-growing city want move-in-ready homes with updated systems, and a lack of outlets might hint at outdated wiring or the need for an expensive and time-consuming electrical upgrade.

Strategically placed additions, like USB charging ports or garage outlets for tools and EVs, can improve usability and subtly enhance buyer appeal. If you’re already upgrading your electrical system, adding extra outlets can help prepare your home for the future at a relatively low cost.

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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